Empowering the Future: e& Launches AI Graduate Programme for Emirati Talent
In an ambitious move aimed at fostering homegrown talent and supporting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) vision for an innovative future, e& (formerly known as Etisalat Group) proudly inaugurated the AI Graduate Programme for the class of 2024. This onboarding event, graced by over sixty exceptional Emirati graduates, underscores the telecommunications giant’s steadfast commitment to nurturing local professionals and establishing itself as the employer of choice among the UAE’s youth.
Ali Al Mansoori, the Group Chief People Officer of e&, emphasized the significance of visionary leadership in driving innovation. “The future of innovation extends beyond technology; it’s driven by the visionaries who bring it to life. The AI Graduate Programme is more than a skills-building initiative—it’s a platform to nurture the next generation of Emirati pioneers,” he remarked. With this initiative, e& aims to equip young Emiratis with essential tools to become leaders in artificial intelligence, thereby reshaping the digital landscape of the UAE.
This exclusive programme offers a rigorous and immersive educational experience focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) as well as related fields such as cybersecurity, big data, and analytics. Over a span of twelve months, participants will engage in practical applications of their learning, contributing to real-world AI projects that are integral to the advancement of the digital economy. By providing such authentic learning environments, e& prepares graduates not merely for individual careers but as future leaders who will play pivotal roles in the ongoing technological evolution.
The AI Graduate Programme runs in two distinct phases, delivering specialized training in key domains such as machine learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics. However, the curriculum goes beyond technical proficiency; it also prioritizes the cultivation of soft skills including communication, emotional intelligence, and leadership. Each candidate benefits from a personalized development plan, featuring dedicated mentorship and ongoing feedback crucial for professional growth.
Developed in collaboration with leading educational institutions—including Udacity, Harvard Business Review, MIT, LinkedIn, and Udemy—the AI Graduate Programme serves as a cornerstone of e&’s Emiratisation strategy. With a notable 53% of its UAE workforce currently comprised of Emirati talent, the company is not only enhancing its representation of local professionals but also preparing them to be key drivers of the UAE’s technological advancement.
The AI Graduate Programme is part of a broader commitment by e& to invest in the skills development of Emiratis. Other initiatives, such as Bidayati—a leadership training program that offers hands-on experience in AI projects—and Excelerate™, a collaborative venture with Ericsson focusing on 5G, data science, and cloud computing, further amplify the company’s dedication to nurturing a robust tech talent pool in the region. These efforts collectively strive to ensure that Emirati graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of an increasingly digitalized economy.
As the UAE continues to propel itself as a global leader in technology and innovation, programs like e&’s AI Graduate Programme are critical. They not only provide young professionals with the necessary tools to thrive but also represent a deeper commitment to the country’s ambitious vision of fostering homegrown talent that can drive future advancements.
In summary, e& stands at the forefront of not only adapting to the changing technological landscape but actively shaping it. With initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation of Emirati leaders, the company is contributing significantly to a sustainable future where local talent can advocate for and implement transformative solutions.
As we look ahead, the convergence of technology and leadership, particularly within the context of Emirati representation, promises to redefine what is possible within the realms of AI and digital innovation. The journey of these young graduates is just beginning, and their impact is poised to resonate across the UAE and beyond.
—
Tags: #BusinessNews, #EconomyNews, #UAE, #StartupsEntrepreneurship, #EducationNews