Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid approves year-long strategy to boost skills of Emiratis

The My Skills 12x12 initiative will start next month

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has launched a new initiative aimed at preparing Emiratis for the challenges of a fast-developing world.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has launched an ambitious year-long initiative to boost the skills of the Emirati workforce - and create an "economic engine" driving the country forward.

The Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, rolled out the My Skills 12x12 campaign on Wednesday, aimed at future-proofing citizens by arming them with new knowledge and expertise every month for the next year.

The wide-ranging programme focuses on 12 different skills needed to help cement the UAE as a leading player on the world stage for decades to come.

It is the first in a series of policies to fall under the Strategy for the Advanced Skills National Programme, approved by the UAE Cabinet on Sunday.

The mission statement of the scheme is to promote an ideal of lifelong learning in Emirati society.

The 12 advanced skill sets that will make up the strategy are: scientific literacy, creativity, critical thinking/problem solving, leadership, empathy, tech literacy, financial literacy, collaboration, communication, adaptability, social and cultural awareness, and growth mindset.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid announced that growth mindset will be the first quality to be focused on in June.

All sections of Emirati society will be challenged to sharpen up their abilities through workshops, lectures and training sessions.

In June, people will be tasked with enhancing their 'growth mindset' by being aware of the importance of personal improvement and being up to speed with developments in a range of fields, from technology and health to education, across the world.

Ahmad Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills, said the UAE government is confident its citizens can adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world.

“With the strength and dedication of its people, the United Arab Emirates is steadily establishing itself as a leader in all sectors," said Mr Al Falasi.

"The UAE opens doors to those who are determined to address challenges and overcome the impossible. Our wise leadership has great faith in the Emirati people’s ability to keep up with future transformations and master advanced skills to transform our challenges into opportunities.

“The campaign helps achieve the UAE’s plans to develop an economic engine that serves its aspirations. This objective can only be achieved through consistent and continuous development of people’s skills, and by arming them with the necessary expertise to make sound decisions and propose innovative solutions to various national issues.”

“The upcoming phase will see us work hand in hand with our partners across all federal and local government entities to promote advanced skills and establish a lifelong learning culture in Emirati society.”

The minister said the 12 categories were compiled after an extensive study carried out with more than 70 international institutions and private sector organisations in the UAE.