In an effort to empower the youth of the United Arab Emirates, the Cabinet, headed by Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has adopted a thorough National Youth Agenda.
The meeting, held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, marked the official launch of the National Youth Agenda 2031. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the Cabinet’s directives to the Minister of Youth, which focus on five key pillars: economic empowerment, development of scientific skills, consolidation of national identity, enhancement of community contributions, and international representation.
Key Pillars of the National Youth Agenda 2031
The agenda aims for Emirati youth to be significant contributors to national economic growth. By creating opportunities and providing resources, the agenda will enable young Emiratis to start businesses, innovate, and take on leadership roles within the economy. This initiative seeks to foster an environment where youth can thrive economically, thus driving overall national prosperity.
A major focus is on equipping young Emiratis with the necessary skills to master advanced technologies and future innovations. This involves enhancing educational systems, providing access to cutting-edge scientific knowledge, and encouraging participation in STEM fields. By developing these skills, the agenda aims to prepare youth for the challenges and opportunities of the future job market.
Strengthening the national identity among the youth is another critical objective. The agenda promotes a deep sense of pride and affiliation with Emirati values and principles. This includes launching the National Charter for Youth, which will outline the roles and responsibilities of young Emiratis in upholding and promoting their national identity. By instilling a strong national consciousness, the agenda ensures that the youth remain connected to their cultural roots while actively participating in the global community.
The agenda emphasizes the importance of youth contributions to community development. It aims to foster a culture of volunteerism and social responsibility, encouraging young people to engage in initiatives that benefit society. This pillar ensures that youth are not only economically productive but also socially responsible citizens who actively contribute to the well-being of their communities.
Enhancing the role of young Emiratis on the global stage is a key goal. The agenda aims to qualify over 100 young Emiratis to represent the country in international organizations and forums, particularly in sectors of national importance. This will position the UAE as a leading nation in youth empowerment and enable young Emiratis to drive positive change worldwide.
Additional Goals and Initiatives
The National Youth Agenda 2031 also aims to improve the overall quality of life for young people in the UAE. The goal is to place the UAE among the top 10 countries globally in terms of youth quality of life, ensuring easy access to basic services, and supporting youth projects in emerging sectors. Additionally, the agenda will double the number of young Emiratis obtaining academic and vocational qualifications aligned with future skills and labor market needs.
An honorary medal for elite youth will be introduced to recognize outstanding achievements and contributions, further motivating young Emiratis to strive for excellence. By implementing these initiatives, the agenda aims to create a supportive and enabling environment for youth, fostering a generation of well-rounded, empowered individuals ready to lead the nation into the future.
The UAE's National Youth Agenda 2031 is a bold and forward-thinking plan that seeks to harness the potential of young Emiratis across various sectors. By focusing on economic empowerment, scientific development, national identity, community engagement, and international representation, the agenda provides a comprehensive framework for youth development.
With its ambitious goals and strategic initiatives, the agenda sets the stage for a prosperous future driven by the nation's youth, positioning the UAE as a global leader in youth empowerment and development.