Interview: Sarah Al Amiri
How can the intersection of advanced technology and public education influence economic growth?
SARAH AL AMIRI: The UAE is building a digital, knowledge-based economy in line with its vision for the next 50 years. Advanced technology and education are fundamental pillars of this effort, and they are two of the government’s key priorities because of their power to transform the economy. Integrating advanced technology into public education equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate a technology-driven world, enabling them to develop proficiency in areas such as computer programming, data analysis, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and other emerging fields. A well-educated workforce trained in advanced skills can drive innovation, productivity and competitiveness, thereby fostering economic growth.
This intersection is also critical to innovation and entrepreneurship, both of which are ingredients of a robust and resilient economy. By utilising new advancements in public education, students are exposed to innovation and problem-solving methodologies from an early age. This cultivates an entrepreneurial mindset, and encourages creativity and critical thinking. Students who are well versed in these fields are more likely to become innovators, inventors and entrepreneurs, driving economic growth through the development of new products, services and industries.
In what ways is the UAE attracting and nurturing talent in the technology sector?
AL AMIRI: The UAE aims to transition to a knowledge-based economy in which intellectual capital and innovation are the primary drivers of growth. This type of talent provides the foundation as it contributes to research and development, fosters innovation, and supports the creation of high-value-added products and services. Technology also plays a pivotal role in economic diversification. By attracting and nurturing talent, the UAE can develop technology-enabled industries, stimulate entrepreneurship, create new job opportunities and reduce its reliance on the sectors of the economy that have traditionally shaped its growth.
Rapid developments are transforming industries and job markets. Having a strong technology talent pool ensures that the UAE’s workforce remains adaptable and future-proofed. Professionals in the field can drive digital skills development, bridge the digital divide and contribute to upskilling initiatives, enabling the UAE to keep pace with technological advancements.
In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, countries that possess a strong pool of technology talent tend to be more competitive on the global stage. By attracting highly skilled technology professionals, the UAE can further establish itself as a centre for innovation, research and development, attracting foreign investment and boosting international collaboration.
What are some of the steps the UAE is taking to boost its priority economic areas?
AL AMIRI: The UAE is implementing different strategies to attract and cultivate talent in the technology sector to drive economic growth. In particular, it is investing heavily in research and development in priority areas. To accelerate the pace of development, the UAE is collaborating with international academies and institutions. These partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange, research collaboration and the accelerated development of technology. A good example of this approach is the Emirates Mars Mission, under which a team of Emirati and international engineers worked across continents to complete a fully functional and tested spacecraft that successfully entered Mars’ orbit.
It is also crucial to develop programmes that focus on emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain and data analytics, equipping talent with the necessary expertise to contribute to the technology sector. The UAE invests in skills development programmes and training initiatives to upskill its workforce across all segments.
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