A Summer@INSEAD, the first INSEAD business program, designed and developed in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC), to cater specifically to outstanding high school students, has concluded in France.

From 2nd to 20th August, 2015, 25 ADEC young high-school talents along with another 20 international students had the opportunity to attend an intensive summer course at the INSEAD Europe campus in Fontainebleau, France.

Speaking on the final day of the program via a live TV link, ADEC's Director-General Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi, said, "Summer@INSEAD is one of ADEC's endeavours designed to equip our youth with the skills necessary for them to be tomorrow's leaders. This program is an excellent opportunity for our students, who will not only gain the fundamental skills in business and entrepreneurship through a hands-on approach, but they will also be exposed to a completely new culture and heritage. This new and exciting learning experience will definitely add value to our students, of whom we are very proud, as a result of their outstanding performance in school."

Dr. Al Qubaisi added, "We are committed to providing our students with the best learning opportunities in the world's most known educational institutions. It provides proof of ADEC's efforts to help students gain the 21st century skills in entrepreneurship, communications and keep pace with rapid scientific and technological transformations taking place around the world.' Gaining basic skills and knowledge about business for promoting the culture of entrepreneurship will help deliver Abu Dhabi Vision 2020 and its strategy towards a knowledge-based economy.' The program, which targets outstanding high school students, will contribute to inspiring and empowering young talents to develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of the global economy as well as European culture.

Peter B. Zemsky, Deputy Dean of INSEAD, said the students who participated in the program had shown incredible abilities and skills and had interacted positively with the intensive activities of the program.

He lauded the successful participation of the UAE students and said it exceeded expectations.

The program offers both theoretical and practical experience and will equip students with the basic knowledge and skills required for an increased awareness of the world of business. Designed and led by INSEAD's world-class faculty, this challenging and enriching experience will provide students with a unique opportunity for personal and academic self-development Taught in English, the course uses interactive, real examples and exercises to help students learn about business in a way that is relevant to their everyday lives. Students participating will also further appreciate the critical role of business in society and the ways in which it can – and should – be a force for good. The program also put a lot of emphasis on teamwork following INSEAD's approach to leadership development.

To provide a wealth of cross-cultural experiences, Summer@INSEAD included many visits to the historical and cultural landmarks of Paris as well as the iconic brand names in France such as the Galeries Lafayette and Louis Vuitton. Through these activities as well as talks with business leaders, students had a chance to learn how France has leveraged its cultural legacy and created some of the most sought after museums, luxury houses, gastronomy, and hospitality experts in the world.