Crown Prince of Dubai approves plan for universities to create business leaders of the future

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has approved an initiative to encourage entrepreneurship

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, has approved plans for creative and economic free zones at universities to encourage students to sharpen their business skills. Pawan Singh / The National

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has launched a new education initiative paving the way for universities to help create the UAE's entrepreneurs of the future.

The Crown Prince of Dubai has approved plans to roll out economic and creative free zones at universities, in which students will be allowed to carry out business activities during their studies.

Seats of learning will support students with education, research and funding as part of the programme.

The scheme aims to encourage students to graduate not only with academic qualifications, but with the business acumen needed to pursue their career "dreams", Sheikh Hamdan said.

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Sheikh Hamdan said the strategy is in line with the 50-year charter unveiled by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, to accelerate the emirate's development as a global power.

"We draw inspiration from the vision of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and the targeted future development areas that he outlined in the 50-Year Charter," said Sheikh Hamdan.

"As we approve the strategy to create economic and creative free zones in universities, we set in motion a revolutionary plan that will assist students to realise their dreams in becoming the young successful business leaders of the future."

Sheikh Hamdan said the move was part of Dubai's mission to become a leading international hub for entrepreneurship.

The strategy, drawn up by the Dubai Future Foundation in partnership with other government bodies, calls for collaboration with universities and institutions in order for its goals to be met.