Sharjah Launches Inaugural “Gulf Bridges” Youth Leadership Program to Foster Future Leaders
Sharjah: The bustling emirate of Sharjah recently celebrated the successful conclusion of its inaugural “Gulf Bridges – the Gulf Youth Leadership Program.” Organized by Sharjah Youth and the Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah—both entities under the prestigious Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators—this pioneering initiative attracted 40 enthusiastic young participants from various Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. The program aimed to instill essential leadership skills, equip emerging leaders with impactful knowledge on sustainable practices, and address critical issues pertaining to food security.
The initiative was conducted under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Chairperson of the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation. Her dedication to youth empowerment through leadership training reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the role of younger generations in shaping a sustainable future for the region.
A standout aspect of the program was a hands-on visit to a wheat farm located in Mleiha, a site recognized for its groundbreaking efforts in food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Participants had the unique opportunity to learn directly from Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, the Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock and CEO of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Corporation, commonly known as EKTIFA. Dr. Al Tunaiji elaborated on the challenges and advancements present within Sharjah’s food security projects, emphasizing the emirate’s commitment to innovation in agriculture.
During the visit, Dr. Al Tunaiji highlighted a significant breakthrough: the emirate’s pioneering examination of wheat hybridization, which is the first of its kind within the UAE. This initiative incorporates biotechnology at the Mleiha wheat farm, showcasing breathtaking advancements in agricultural technology. He further emphasized Sharjah’s Food Security System, which aims to integrate artificial intelligence alongside sustainable agricultural practices, positioning the emirate as a forward-thinking leader prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Participants also explored the Mleiha Dairy Farm, notable for its commitment to providing organic milk. The farm is presently developing free-range broiler farms to enhance sustainable poultry production. Dr. Al Tunaiji underscored Sharjah’s abundant natural resources, illustrating the region’s capacity to support innovative agricultural initiatives that reinforce food security in the UAE.
In addition to field visits, the Gulf Bridges program incorporated various interactive workshops designed to enrich the participants’ skills and knowledge. Notable sessions included a workshop led by Dr. Hanaa Namankani, an Assistant Professor and Self-Development Trainer, who facilitated a session on “The Journey of Self-Awareness.” This workshop delved into the importance of understanding personality traits as a foundation for effective leadership.
Meanwhile, trainer Ashwaq Ahmed Bouali conducted a creative workshop titled “Personal Skills and Team Building” at the Sharjah Safari, emphasizing the significance of leadership, motivation, and unlocking individual potential in group settings. The workshops were thoughtfully designed to offer a holistic educational experience, fostering both personal growth and collaborative skills among the participants.
The Gulf Bridges program not only concluded successfully but also left a lasting impact on its participants, equipping them with vital tools and knowledge necessary to instigate positive change within their communities and beyond. As the youth of the GCC return to their home countries, they carry with them the insights and experiences garnered during this transformative program, poised to become the next generation of leaders in their respective fields.
In summary, the inaugural “Gulf Bridges” initiative exemplifies a proactive approach to youth engagement in the GCC, establishing a framework for future leadership that prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and community development. As the region continues to evolve, such programs play a crucial role in shaping the discourse around leadership and agricultural sustainability.
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