Sheikh Mohammed launches UAE Youth Global Initiative
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, marked yesterday’s International Youth Day by launching the UAE Youth Global Initiative.
It calls on young Emiratis to “enhance the UAE’s reputation” and “spread awareness of its values and heritage”, and its progress.
Sheikh Mohammed made the announcement at the Sea Palace during an International Youth Day event organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs.
He said young people had a responsibility to contribute to their society by investing in their skills, particularly in science.
“We are in a constant race with the world,” Sheikh Mohammed tweeted after the event. “We can lead the way by investing in science and by building distinctive and inspiring national capacities that take us forward.
“The children of Zayed are the ones who can take us there.” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, tweeted that the country celebrated youths’ “education, empowerment and participation in responsibility”.
Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State and chairman of the National Media Council, said the concerns of youths were given the “utmost priority” by leaders and government.
To that end, the government appointed Shamma Al Mazrui as Minister of State for Youth Affairs and head of the Emirates Youth Council, so that young people would have a channel to have their views heard.
In April, the UAE government approved the formation of the Federal Youth Authority, which will co-ordinate and support the actions of local youth councils across the country. “Engaging young people through nationwide local councils, including the Youth Media Council, has achieved tangible results,” Dr Al Jaber said.
“These councils have launched national initiatives, setting an example and serving our country and its leadership.”
Noura Al Kaabi, the Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, was one of several government leaders to issue a statement marking International Youth Day.
“Since it was founded, the UAE has been heavily investing in the capacities of young people so they can gain modern skills and empower and rehabilitate themselves to serve their local community,” Ms Al Kaabi said.
“They serve as a safety valve and a source of hope and strength for the community.”
To mark the day, Dubai Police organised a lecture for 100 outstanding high school pupils.
A police spokesman said: “We want to guide students towards the right path in choosing their future career,” a police spokesman said.
“Each one has unique potential that should not be wasted by choosing a job that is expected to vanish soon.”