Professional, Practical Training Programme: Strategic step to drive Emiratisation in private sector

Author: His Excellency Ahmad Yousuf Al Nasser, Assistant Undersecretary of National Human Resources Development, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Policy and Strategy, Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)

The Professional and Practical Training Programme for students, launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in collaboration with its partners in its pilot phase during the 2023-2024 academic year, is an important initiative and a significant strategic step, intended to develop professional skills among Emirati youth and align their capacities with the UAE’s economic diversification goals and priority sectors.

The Programme seeks to build a strong system of work ethics among young people, while establishing stronger connections between Emirati students and private sector companies, encouraging the students to consider careers in this key sector from an early age. This, in turn, serves to train and empower Emirati talent, preparing them to lead the UAE’s ambitious economic plans and achieve the country’s vision to transition towards a knowledge-based economy, which supports sustainable development efforts.

Another objective of the Programme is to enhance competency among UAE citizens and broaden their career horizons by providing students – from ninth grade to senior year of higher education – with the necessary practical experience and skills required for the labour market. This enhances Emirati citizens’ excellence and competitiveness in the labour market, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, higher education institutions, training companies, and the private sector.

Building on the notable success the Programme achieved during the pilot phase, and in an effort to enhance its benefits, MoHRE is preparing to launch a sustainable and integrated action plan, in collaboration with its partners, to gradually expand the scope of the Programme over the coming years, in line with the grand objectives to build up UAE citizens’ expertise and enhance their participation in the labour market.

With that in mind, the Professional and Practical Training Programme for students is considered a pioneering national initiative that contributes to historical accomplishments in Emiratisation in the private sector, thereby ensuring sustainability in this key strategy, which is a top national priority and receives utmost support from the wise UAE leadership.