Page 93 - MBRF English PR Report - September 2024

aligns with MBRF's commitment to spreading knowledge globally to support
community development. The academy embodies our continuous dedication to
bridging gaps, advancing the knowledge economy, and promoting human
development across the Arab region by equipping individuals with essential skills
and directly linking education to employment opportunities," he emphasised.

"The Future Skills Academy is a strategic investment in the Arab region's future,
further strengthening Dubai's status as a globally prominent hub of knowledge.
The aim is to nurture a generation of talented youth equipped to address
sustainable development challenges and empowered with the skills to propose
effective solutions," he added.

Abdallah Al Dardari, Assistant Secretary-General, Assistant Administrator and
Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States of the UNDP, said: "In addition to
signifying a crucial advancement in our strategic partnership with the MBRF, this
academy represents a pivotal step towards creating a comprehensive and
sustainable future. Its primary mission is to bridge the digital divide in the Arab
region by enhancing digital capabilities and equipping local communities with the
requisite skills to thrive in today's ever-changing world. By providing essential
and cutting-edge resources, the academy will empower organisations and
partnerships to leverage the opportunities offered by the global digital economy."

On a broader scale, the academy is designed to bridge the digital divide, promoting
innovation, resilience, and inclusion by providing individuals, governments, and
SMEs with essential digital skills to drive digital transformation and foster
community innovation. It also seeks to enhance social innovation through
partnerships with universities and the private sector, enriching learning
experiences and improving practical educational outcomes. Additionally, the
academy addresses labour market inequalities, including gender disparities, and
offers educational and vocational programmes tailored to support
underrepresented groups.

The Future Skills Academy is set to offer a diverse range of certified and
specialised programmes, available both online and in-person, in its initial phase. It
is designed to equip students, professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, and
government officials with essential future skills and will act as a knowledge-
driven catalyst, supporting various global digitalisation and transformation

https://www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/274651409/mohammed-bin-rashid-al-maktoum-
knowledge-foundation-launches-future-skills-academy-as-part-of-the-knowledge-project