Abu Dhabi: H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, attended the graduation ceremony of the 12th National Defense Course (2024-2025) at the National Defence College headquarters. The event was marked by the presence of Mohammed bin Mubarak bin Fadel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defense Affairs, along with several senior officials and officers.

According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. congratulated the graduates on their efforts and performance throughout their academic education and vocational training. He praised their capabilities and competence, highlighting their readiness to support the UAE’s development, particularly in national security, defense, sustainability, and innovation.

H.H. also acknowledged the work of the National Defense College, noting its role as a model in strategic thinking and leadership development. The college is instrumental in preparing military and security cadres to face challenges, thereby enhancing the country’s security and safeguarding its achievements.

Staff Brigadier Saeed Hassan Mohamed Alyammahi, Commandant of the National Defense College, in his speech, expressed pride in graduating leaders from military and civilian sectors. He emphasized the college’s strategic educational environment’s role in preparing leaders to understand the national security system and engage with geopolitical challenges.

He highlighted the college’s annual efforts to align its academic programs with national priorities, enhancing Emirati professionals’ readiness to address security, economic, and technological challenges through strategic thinking and innovation.

This year’s course, themed “Year of Community,” emphasized social cohesion and national awareness as integral to national security-a concept woven into the curriculum.

At the ceremony’s conclusion, H.H. honored the graduates.