Fostering Future Leaders: Schneider Electric and DP World Empower Emirati Youth in Sustainability
September 13, 2025
In a significant advancement towards a more sustainable future, Schneider Electric and DP World collaboratively celebrated the graduation of fifteen Emirati students from innovative leadership programs designed to equip them with the skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape of sustainability and technology. The graduation ceremony took place at Schneider Electric’s cutting-edge facility, The NEST, located in Dubai, a fitting venue for the occasion given the company’s commitment to technological advancement and sustainable practices.
The event highlighted the achievements of nine undergraduate students from the Future Sustainability Leaders Programme and six top-performing employees from the Talent Exchange Programme. These carefully curated initiatives aimed to cultivate a new generation of leaders well-versed in sustainability practices, digital innovation, and leadership qualities essential for driving meaningful change in their communities and the broader UAE.
The Future Sustainability Leaders Programme, a cornerstone of this collaborative effort, provided participating Emirati undergraduates with a five-month hybrid learning experience that encompassed critical areas such as decarbonization, energy management, and fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence. Participants engaged in virtual sessions led by Schneider Electric experts, augmented by a hands-on, month-long internship at both Schneider Electric and DP World. This structure not only enhanced theoretical understanding but also imparted practical skills that are increasingly invaluable in careers focused on technology-driven sustainability.
“It is essential that young leaders like these graduates are prepared to assume their rightful roles in steering the country’s innovation economy,” remarked Amel Chadli, President of the Gulf Cluster at Schneider Electric. “Their achievement today reflects a blend of education, mentorship, and hands-on experience that will be critical as they contribute to shaping the UAE’s future.”
Indeed, the initiative marks a pivotal moment for UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability at a time when environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discourse. With the UAE positioning itself as a key player in sustainability and technology on the international stage, the investment in local talent is a step towards cementing its reputation in these domains.
DP World’s CEO and Managing Director for the GCC, Abdulla Bin Damithan, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential of collaborative efforts between organizations to empower young Emirati talent. “These programs illustrate the powerful outcomes achieved when strong partnerships are combined with the ambition and skills of Emiratis,” he stated, further emphasizing that the success of such educational initiatives aligns with the broader aspirations of the UAE Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy and enhance the nation’s competitiveness in global markets.
Earlier this year, Schneider Electric pledged a substantial investment of AED 100 million over five years aimed at cultivating next-generation talent in the UAE. Meanwhile, DP World has reinforced its commitment to education through a broader US$ 35 million investment plan set to extend through 2030. Such investments underscore a shared recognition among corporate leaders of the critical role that education and mentorship play in nurturing talent capable of tackling future challenges.
As the world grapples with pressing issues such as climate change, energy consumption, and technological advancement, the caliber of the graduates from these programs signals hope for more informed and innovative approaches to these challenges. The combination of sustainability education and leadership training not only prepares these young Emiratis for careers that demand adaptability and forward-thinking but also positions them as catalysts for change in their communities.
In conclusion, the graduation ceremony at The NEST represents not just a milestone for the graduates—celebrating their achievements and hard work—but also a significant step towards ensuring that the UAE remains at the forefront of the sustainable innovation economy. The strategic partnerships established between leading organizations such as Schneider Electric and DP World serve as a model for future initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation of leaders in the region.
Tags: #UAE #BusinessNews #EconomyNews