Sultan: Don’t let extremism destroy youth
SHARJAH RULER CALLS FOR CREATING MORE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN REGION
The ‘Investing in the Future’ conference opened in Sharjah yesterday with a message to save youth from extremism and provide employment opportunities for them.
The call came from His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, during his opening remarks at the conference, which ends today.
The third edition of the conference, organised by The Big Heart Foundation, is being held under the theme of ‘Youth — Crisis, Challenges and Development Opportunities’.
More than 600 local and international officials, experts and youth are meeting at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre to discuss youth-related issues in the region, especially those that emerge from war, conflict and natural disasters.
Serious concerns
In the opening session, Dr Shaikh Sultan called for effective ways to prevent youth from falling victim to extremism, which he said was “destroying our societies in the region”.
He said youth should be provided a stable, supportive environment. Dr Shaikh Sultan also called for support to be in “alignment” with the capabilities of youth, so they can realise their full potential and contribute to society’s development.
He added that “today’s world is a world of knowledge” and youth have to compete closely to acquire and develop all branches of knowledge.
Dr Shaikh Sultan also told schoolchildren attending the event and the youth in general that “we are here for you”.
In a recorded message, Shaikha Jawaher Bint Mohammad Al Qasimi, chairperson on the Big Heart Foundation, addressed delegates by saying youth were “falling prey” to conflict and crises in the region. She added that their trust can be regained by investing in them, reassuring them that IIFMENA “is your platform and Sharjah is your city”.
Dr Ahmad Abdullah Humaid Bel Houl Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills, said the Fourth Industrial Revolution was making a huge impact on youth, who in turn are a sizeable demographic in the region. Youth under 35 years of age represent 75 per cent of the population in the Middle East, he said, quoting studies.
Hessa Bint Eisa Bu Humaid, Minister of Community Development, said youth development was a priority for the UAE and the impact of such strategies will be studied. She also referred to programmes bringing youth close to public and private sector decision makers.