Sharjah: The Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office has announced the launch of the 'Digital Talents in Sharjah' initiative, in strategic partnership with the University of Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah, and in collaboration with leading global technology companies, including Google, Oracle, upGrad, and Microsoft.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative aims to develop digital skills and bridge the gap between academic outcomes and the evolving requirements of the job market by providing hands-on training and professional qualification opportunities for students and graduates. It seeks to nurture talent, build capabilities, and prepare a digitally empowered generation equipped with the knowledge tools needed to actively contribute to the knowledge economy and drive innovation across vital sectors.
The launch was witnessed by Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, and signed by Saqr Binghalib, Executive Director of the UAE Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications Office, and Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of the American University of Sharjah.
Spanning two years, the initiative represents an advanced model of collaboration between government entities, academic institutions, and technology companies, contributing to the development of an integrated ecosystem for preparing national talent in artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies.
Saqr Binghalib affirmed that the 'Digital Talents in Sharjah' initiative reflects the UAE Government's commitment to strengthening the country's global leadership in artificial intelligence and advanced technology by investing in human capital and fostering talent, in line with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy. He stated that the initiative will play a key role in equipping students and graduates with applied digital skills, aligning educational outcomes with labor market demands, and supporting the preparation of a generation capable of leading digital transformation.
Commenting on the launch of the initiative, Professor Dr. Esameldin Agami, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, noted that this partnership aligns with the university's mission to prepare graduates who are capable of effectively integrating into the modern workforce market. He emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration with leading global technology companies in achieving this goal.
Omar Aljundi, General Manager and Vice President for Customer Success Services at Oracle for the Middle East and Africa, praised Oracle's partnership with the AI Office. He highlighted its role in empowering university students in Sharjah with the necessary technical and digital skills for the future job market.
Caroline Mutepfa, AI Skills Director at Microsoft Elevate, stated that the Microsoft Elevate initiative aims to prepare students for an AI-powered future by providing practical tools and guidance. This partnership will advance an AI-first education ecosystem, enhancing students' learning experiences and boosting their confidence to succeed in their careers.
The initiative focuses on equipping students and graduates with future-ready skills through specialized programs centered on practical applications of artificial intelligence. Google will deliver training workshops in AI, covering applications of Google Gemini, aligning with the 'AI for All' initiative to expand access to AI capabilities across society.
The initiative aligns with the objectives of the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which places human development at the forefront, reflecting the UAE's vision of empowering youth as key drivers of the digital economy by equipping them with skills to build a future led by advanced technologies.