A hi-tech media lab will open new career channels to Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) students and help them develop real practical experience in the field of media. HCT and Abu Dhabi media and entertainment hub, twofour54, signed an agreement to provide HCT students with opportunities to develop skills and careers in the burgeoning local media industry. \"We want to connect with the youth, ignite their passion for media and develop world-class Arabic media and entertainment,\" twofour54 CEO Tony Orsten said. The project is part of a broader relationship with the education sector to nurture indigenous expertise. Article continues below Stimulating talent \"We want to stimulate local talents so they consider professional careers in media, and to increase awareness among the student population about new industries that are developing in the UAE, like gaming and animation,\" Wayne Borg, deputy CEO and COO at twofour54, told Gulf News. \"One of our goals is to ensure that courses provided are aligned with market needs. There are over 140 media companies based in the UAE, and we offer the students training and internships in these companies. We help guide expectations and create awareness of incubation challenges for students who want to start their own projects.\" HCT will be holding regular classes with its media students in the lab, as well as hosting monthly workshops there in partnership with twofour54. \"This lab is unique because HCT faculty will be able to facilitate 360-degree learning by use of multi-layered white boards, a 60 inch LCD screen and an HD projection system, meaning that our media and applied communications students get to use the latest technologies and the best possible facilities,\" Alan Jones, chair of Applied Media Studies, Abu Dhabi Men\'s College, told Gulf News.