Abu dhabi: The Federal Youth Authority (FYA) has launched the ‘Youth Social Missions Programme’ to prepare Emirati youth for participation in UAE-led social missions around the world. These include humanitarian, developmental, and cultural missions, and aim to develop specialised national cadres through training programmes that promote social responsibility among UAE youth. This initiative falls under the ‘Society and Values’ pillar of the UAE Youth National Agenda 2031, reflecting the country’s commitment to global volunteerism and sustainable development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme was launched from Japan and seeks to empower Emirati youth to represent the nation in priority missions, embed a culture of volunteerism and community responsibility, and provide specialised skills through high-quality training. The initiative supports global crisis response and contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while promoting cultural exchange and the UAE’s positive soft power globally through dynamic youth participation.
Khaled Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority, emphasised the UAE’s longstanding commitment to humanitarian causes, inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He instilled in UAE citizens the values of generosity and solidarity in times of crisis. The UAE has become one of the world’s most influential countries in providing aid through medical, food, and development projects globally.
Al Nuaimi noted that the launch of the programme is a new milestone in strengthening the UAE’s pivotal role in volunteer and humanitarian work. Involving youth in these efforts boosts their influence as a global force for positive change and supports the objectives of the Youth National Agenda 2031, creating a generation that embodies Emirati principles and acts as true ambassadors of relief efforts.
The ‘Youth Social Missions Programme’ aims to enable youth participation in humanitarian missions by delivering urgent aid in disaster-stricken regions, including food distribution, medical supplies, psychological support, and relief operations. Developmental missions will launch sustainable initiatives such as building schools, supporting education, and enhancing livelihoods. Cultural missions will promote cultural exchange and showcase the Emirati identity through educational events.
Over the next five years, the programme aims to train young Emiratis aged 21 to 35. It seeks to raise awareness, support communities in need, and involve youth in international relief missions. Participants will gain insight into global issues, develop communication and leadership skills, and create positive social impact.
Key advantages of the programme include the honorary title of ‘Humanitarian Work Ambassadors’, opportunities to create media content, building partnerships with international organisations, receiving official certifications, and real opportunities for field participation. The programme features training workshops, field visits, expert dialogues, and preparation for international missions.