President Sheikh Mohamed says youth are the UAE’s strength

President Sheikh Mohamed Highlights Youth as the UAE’s Strength on World Youth Skills Day

President Sheikh Mohamed emphasized that youth represent the strength, wealth, and ambition of the UAE. On World Youth Skills Day, marked globally today, Sheikh Mohamed used the social media platform X to highlight the critical role young people play in society.

Youth: The Pillar of UAE’s Development Vision

In his message, Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills necessary for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. He stated, “On World Youth Skills Day, we reaffirm that empowering our youth, investing in them, and equipping them with skills for the future is an essential pillar of the UAE’s development vision.”

He continued, “Youth are the strength, energy, ambition, and wealth of our nation. As the leaders of tomorrow, they will be at the heart of our ongoing progress and must be enabled to contribute effectively to the UAE’s future development and prosperity.”

Empowering Youth for a Prosperous Future

Sheikh Mohamed’s comments underscore the UAE’s commitment to investing in its youth as a fundamental part of the nation’s development strategy. This approach ensures that young Emiratis are prepared to lead the country toward continued growth and success.

Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi’s Response

Emirati astronaut Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, now serving as the Minister of State for Youth Affairs, responded to Sheikh Mohamed’s post. He echoed the sentiment of empowering the youth, stating, “We have learnt from Your Highness that building the future starts with empowering the people. We remain dedicated to working tirelessly with Emirati youth to fulfill your vision, ensuring the Emirati success story thrives across generations.”

Youth Programs to Support Emirati Families

The UAE has launched several initiatives to support and empower its youth. One notable program is the Emirati Family Growth Programme, announced by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. This initiative aims to enhance family stability and reinforce community cohesion by encouraging Emirati youth to marry and start families.

Participants in the program can receive financial loans, rent assistance for up to four years, and housing loan deductions after the births of their fourth, fifth, and sixth child. Additionally, the program extends maternity leave to 90 days and allows housing loan repayments to be extended starting from the birth of their fourth child. A home visit service is also available to aid new parents during their first weeks, providing much-needed support and guidance.

Future Leaders Empowerment Program

In another initiative, a group of young people from the UAE is currently participating in the Future Leaders Empowerment Program in Singapore. This two-week course is designed to enhance self-confidence, foster essential leadership qualities, and equip participants with the knowledge necessary to pursue their ambitions.

Comprehensive Skill Development

As part of the Future Leaders Empowerment Program, participants visit various institutions, academies, and factories in Singapore. These visits are complemented by lectures and sessions aimed at developing critical skills and providing insights into leadership and innovation. The program’s holistic approach ensures that young Emiratis are well-prepared to take on future leadership roles and contribute to the nation’s progress.

President Sheikh Mohamed’s emphasis on the youth as the UAE’s strength highlights the country’s dedication to nurturing and empowering its young population. Through strategic investments in education, skill development, and family support programs, the UAE is laying a solid foundation for a prosperous future led by well-equipped and ambitious young leaders. The initiatives and programs aimed at supporting the youth reflect the UAE’s commitment to creating an environment where young people can thrive and contribute significantly to the nation’s development and prosperity.