Smart Dubai’s ‘EDAD’ Training Programme Graduates First Batch of Students at 'Future Now'

The first batch of participants have graduated from Smart Dubai’s EDAD Training Programme during the second edition of “Future Now”, which took place from April 29 until May 2, 2018, at the Dubai Design District (d3).

The event sheds light on the latest achievements in Dubai’s quest for smart transformation, while the EDAD programme was conceived to train and empower a generation of qualified Emirati smart-city experts. At the graduation ceremony, the graduates showcased their tech projects, which they prepared after completing the five-month programme that included two stages of training: internal and external.

The programme was conducted by experienced members of Smart Dubai’s staff, as well as international institutions, all of whom shared their extensive knowledge and expertise in computer programming, project management, business analysis, and many other subjects relating to smart city transformation.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Her Excellency Dr Aisha Bint Butti Bin Bishr, Director General of the Smart Dubai Office (SDO), said: “The programme seeks to provide graduates with the necessary skills and abilities to meet the challenges of the future. Advanced and in-depth knowledge empowers them to quickly adapt to the latest in smart technologies, and then develop and improve their own innovations. The Smart Dubai Office developed the integrated, one-of-a-kind EDAD programme to pave the way for a generation of homegrown smart-city pioneers.”

“The programme seeks to identify talented young Emiratis, and help them develop their knowledge and sharpen their skills,” H.E. added. “We want them to feel empowered to take initiative and contribute to implementing the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, to promote Dubai as a global role model for smart cities everywhere.”

“The UAE’s wise leadership has prioritised investing in human capital – and the youth, in particular – empowering them to lead in building a bright future for the country,” Dr Aisha concluded, thanking all those who contributed to the success of the EDAD programme.

H.E. Wesam Lootah, CEO of the Smart Dubai Government Establishment (SDG), reiterated Smart Dubai’s commitment to providing opportunities for young Emirati professionals to hone their skills in various sectors, and its dedication to promoting innovation and creativity. “The EDAD programme seeks to train participants, who have applied to work with Smart Dubai and its affiliates, to successfully and efficiently perform their duties and roles within the organisation, become increasingly involved in Smart Dubai’s various activities, and boost their productivity and innovation,” he noted.

“Building smart cities requires generations of qualified professionals with the right skills and abilities to meet the challenges of the future. This, in turn, fulfils the objectives of the UAE leadership and the UAE Centennial 2071 Plan,” H.E. Lootah said. “People are the cornerstone of smart-city building; they are the main engine that can support Smart Dubai in its quest to transform Dubai into a fully-fledged Smart City.”

The EDAD Programme seeks to train students who have applied to work with Smart Dubai, familiarise themselves with major international projects, introduce them to data structures and algorithms, and help them develop valuable life and communication skills, including preparing presentations, approaches to teamwork and other important topics.