Abu dhabi: Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, has emphasized the UAE’s dedication to empowering its youth as a critical element for future prosperity and sustainability. Al Awar pointed out that young individuals account for half of the workforce in the UAE’s labour market, which has experienced a 12 percent increase in workforce numbers and a 17 percent rise in the total number of companies.
According to Emirates News Agency, the share of UAE citizens in the workforce has surged by 325 percent over the past three years, following the launch of the Nafis programme. This initiative underscores the youth’s contribution to comprehensive economic growth, innovation, and social cohesion by empowering them, developing their skills, and enhancing their capabilities.
During a session on ‘Inclusive Growth, Job Creation and Youth Empowerment’ at the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting in George, South Africa, Al Awar stated that the UAE is committed to aligning educational outcomes with the changing needs of the labour market. This alignment is being pursued through increased investment in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), specifically in priority sectors like artificial intelligence, digital services, health, and education, where talent demand is high.
Al Awar also highlighted the UAE’s national initiatives, such as the National Youth Agenda 2031, the Industrialist Programme, and the Nafis programme, which support youth empowerment. He discussed the UAE’s focus on entrepreneurship and digital readiness, mentioning initiatives like the dedicated fund for the UAE Council for Entrepreneurship and the ‘5,000 Digital Talents’ initiative aimed at preparing youth for leadership roles in the technology-driven economic future.
Additionally, at the G20 meeting, Al Awar participated in a session on ‘Gender Equality in the Workforce.’ He reiterated the UAE’s commitment to ensuring workplace equality and justice, noting that the country’s legislation prohibits gender-based discrimination and protects against gender-based violence. Women now make up 66 percent of the workforce in government entities, with over 30 percent in leadership roles. The private sector has seen a 21 percent increase in women’s participation, with 46 percent of women working in skilled jobs.
The UAE’s progress in gender equality is evident in its global rankings, including first place in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region on the Gender Inequality Index of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Women, Business, and the Law 2024 report by the World Bank, where it scored 82.5 out of 100.
The G20, established in 1999, brings together major global economies representing 85 percent of global GDP, 75 percent of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population, providing a platform for international cooperation and economic development.