The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has designated the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) in the UAE as a new Regional Training Centre (RTC) for Region II (Asia). This recognition, approved by the WMO Executive Council, comes after a thorough assessment of NCM's facilities and its collaborative programmes with Abu Dhabi Polytechnic (ADPoly).
The assessment underscored the outstanding quality of education provided, encompassing both domestic and international programs such as short courses, workshops, and conferences. These advanced facilities are poised to become a central hub for regional cooperation and specialization in meteorology, climatology, and hydrology.
Following the announcement, Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director-General of NCM and President of WMO, said, "This achievement is a testament to the UAE's commitment to advancing meteorological and hydrological knowledge across the region. It reflects not only the dedication of NCM but also the UAE's ongoing pursuit of regional cooperation and scientific advancement". He added that this centre will equip professionals with the essential tools to address critical weather, climate, and water-related challenges.
Mustafa Adiguzel, Scientific Officer of the Education and Training Office, Member Services and Development Department of WMO, who undertook the review of the training centre and its programmes, said, "We look forward to working with NCM to implement comprehensive training programmes that cater to the unique needs of the region while enhancing the technical capabilities of our member countries".
NCM boasts superb infrastructure, comprising classrooms, meeting rooms, a library stocked with WMO publications, a fully equipped laboratory with comprehensive data access, a spacious conference room featuring cutting-edge technology, a TV studio, a media center, and a distinctive science dome. Teaming up with ADPoly, NCM delivers a range of national and international short courses and serves as a venue for various events, including meetings, workshops, and conferences.
Since 2014, NCM and ADPoly have joined forces to establish an educational infrastructure aimed at cultivating proficient personnel in meteorological services within the UAE. NCM plays a pivotal role in students' academic journeys by offering practical training opportunities for aspiring meteorologists, climatologists, and hydrologists. This hands-on experience, combined with collaborative industry partnerships and on-the-job training at NCM, equips students with essential practical skills for their professional paths.
NCM emphasizes competency-driven short-term training courses, incorporating on-the-job training (OJT) and standard operating procedures (SOP), while ADPoly's Meteorology Department educates top-tier students in delivering meteorological services utilizing advanced technologies. A WMO Regional Training Centre (RTC) is an entity or coordinated network of institutions offering training in meteorology, hydrology, and related sciences to meet regional needs.
