Dubai: The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai has celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of its Empowering Future Leaders programme, as part of its efforts to develop human capital and enhance the readiness of national talent to lead the future of government work.

According to Emirates News Agency, the graduation ceremony was held at the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government, attended by Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of IACAD; Dr. Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Chief Executive Officer of the School; numerous officials and strategic partners; and 29 programme graduates.

The programme is part of IACAD's strategy to prepare a second line of national leaders by equipping participants with modern knowledge, leadership skills, and practical tools that enable them to respond to rapid changes and anticipate future opportunities, aligning with the Government of Dubai's vision to establish a more agile, innovative, and sustainable government system.

The initiative reflects the department's approach to long-term investment in human talent through specialised development pathways aimed at raising leadership readiness, promoting a culture of continuous learning, and empowering employees to lead quality initiatives and achieve sustainable institutional impact.

Al Muhairi stated that the Empowering Future Leaders programme embodies the department's commitment to sustainable investment in human capital as a key pillar of institutional excellence and community impact, contributing to Dubai's competitiveness and global leadership.

He highlighted that the programme underscores the importance of strategic partnerships with national academic institutions, particularly the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government, in enhancing knowledge exchange and expertise sharing, preparing cadres capable of leading quality initiatives, and offering innovative solutions.

He further indicated that the department seeks to expand and sustain the programme to include new cohorts of national talent.

Dr. Al Marri emphasized that the programme represents an advanced model of integration between government and academic institutions in preparing and qualifying national talent, enhancing their readiness to keep pace with changes and anticipate future opportunities.