SCCI to promote youth engagement in industrial sector
Organized by Sharjah Youth Council (SYC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT)'s Youth Council, the session focused on presenting future opportunities within the UAE's industrial sector to Emirati youth.
It also aimed to enhance youth involvement in the national 'Make it in the Emirates' initiative to promote the industrial sector as a key pillar of the UAE's strategy to build a diversified and sustainable economy.
The session witnessed broad participation from officials, experts, and young entrepreneurs with an interest in the industrial sector.
Among the attendees were Hussain Mohammed Al Mahmoudi, CEO of the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park); Mohamed Ali Hilal, SCCI Board Member and CEO of Mohamed Hilal Group, and Mohammed Juma'a Al Musharrakh, CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah).
Also present were Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI, and Dr. Maryam Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Youth Council; as well as several officials and representatives from the Sharjah Chamber, local government youth councils, and SCCI Youth Council.
In his remarks, Abdallah Sultan Al Owais said that public-private partnership to support young industrial pioneers forms a core component of a broader initiative framework implemented by the Sharjah Chamber in collaboration with strategic partners.
'These efforts aim to open new horizons and pathways for Emirati youth to engage in the industrial sector and to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to transform their creative ideas into viable industrial ventures that contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of the national economy,' he added.
Speakers at the session discussed mechanisms for empowering youth within the 'Make it in the Emirates' initiative, outlining available industrial opportunities, existing challenges, and strategies to address them.
Discussions emphasized the critical role of innovation and advanced technologies in industrial development, and the contribution of young talent to boosting the competitiveness of the UAE's industrial sector.
The session also underscored the impact of government-provided incentives, policy support, and Sharjah's investor-friendly environment in supporting young entrepreneurs and fostering youth-led industrial ventures.
The session also featured personal experiences in the industrial field, highlighting how obstacles and challenges can be transformed into opportunities for success.
Discussions emphasized the need for Emirati youth to capitalize on available prospects within the industry, benefit from government-led support initiatives, and engage with private sector efforts—particularly programs offered by the Sharjah Chamber—to enhance entrepreneurial capabilities and foster youth-driven industrial leadership.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Business
19 hours ago
- Gulf Business
Insights: Gulf ports face new security challenges as trade ambitions accelerate
Image: Supplied Ports have evolved beyond their role as trade gateways. Today, they stand as critical pillars of national resilience and economic continuity. In the modern-world, where over 80 per cent of global trade moves by sea and the Gulf plays a central role in global energy and logistics, port security should not be viewed as a cost or a compliance exercise. It must be treated as a vital economic enabler. Without strong and modern security, the Gulf's ambitions to lead in manufacturing, trade, and supply chain integration will remain a challenge. At the recent 'Make it in the Emirates' forum, the UAE laid out a bold industrial vision. Officials highlighted that local manufacturers can now access a global market of 2.5 billion people. Free zones, re-export hubs, and logistics corridors powered by ports including The threat landscape is escalating Port security has moved far beyond fences and surveillance cameras. Today, it involves tackling everything from phishing attempts and cyber intrusions to insider threats and the growing risk posed by smuggling, irregular migration, modern-day slavery and autonomous drones. According to the Center for Internet Security, malware-based attacks rose by 30 per cent in the first half of 2024, with a staggering 92 per cent increase recorded in May alone. These figures are not abstract. They represent very real risks that port operators face daily while trying to maintain efficient operations. Rising geopolitical tensions, from unrest in the Red Sea to broader regional flashpoints, are putting new pressure on Gulf ports. Ensuring their resilience is no longer just about protecting trade. It is now central to national security and regional stability. Compliance is the starting line, not the finish Most Gulf ports meet the basic international security standards under the ISPS Code. But that is not enough. Compliance provides a framework, not a solution. Too often, operators treat it as a checklist rather than a foundation. True resilience requires a different mindset. Port security should not be seen as an obstacle to trade but as a core pillar of competitiveness.. Jebel Ali Port is a leading example. Its global reputation was not earned by simply meeting minimum standards. Its success is the result of ongoing risk assessments, continuous training, and a proactive approach to every aspect of security – particularly in its adoption of technology and its integration into its production primacy approach. This is a model that other ports in the region can learn from and adapt. Integration is the future of security Modern ports function as complex ecosystems. They bring together free zones, logistics providers, customs authorities, and digital infrastructure into a single operational environment. Within this space, security must be fully integrated. Physical access control, cybersecurity protocols, intelligent surveillance, and emergency response planning all need to work together as one. Technology plays a critical role. From biometric access systems to artificial intelligence for threat detection, there are advanced tools that can help enhance security. However, these tools are only effective when guided by skilled professionals with the right training. As Bill Gates once noted, automation applied to an inefficient operation only magnifies the inefficiency. Without strong processes and capable people, even the best technology will fall short. The Gulf's advantage must be used wisely The Gulf has already demonstrated that it can deliver world-class infrastructure. The next frontier is building secure infrastructure that can adapt and evolve with emerging risks. This will require moving beyond paper-based plans and embracing real-world testing. Scenario-based exercises and crisis simulations should become standard practice. Security cannot be a one-time investment. It must be embedded into the daily culture of port operations. Governments and private sector operators must also collaborate more closely. Intelligence sharing, regional coordination, and the development of Gulf-specific security standards can raise the overall r At the heart of this transformation is human capital. The region must invest in developing a new generation of trained and trusted security professionals who understand both physical and digital threats. Security is an investment in growth A single breach at a Gulf port would do more than delay containers. It could disrupt entire supply chains, shake investor confidence, and damage the region's reputation as a dependable trade partner. In a global economy driven by trust, security is no longer optional. It is a non-negotiable investment in sustainable growth. One of the Gulf's strengths lies in its ability to build with foresight. Unlike older ports that are burdened with legacy systems, Gulf ports can design modern security architecture from day one. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman have already begun this journey by introducing smart surveillance systems, AI-driven monitoring, and integrated command centers. These are promising steps, but more must be done. A final question for the region Port security should not be treated as a side function or a technical afterthought. It is central to growth, to national strength, and to the region's future as a global trade and industrial hub. The Gulf can lead not just in port development but in redefining what secure, resilient trade infrastructure looks like for the rest of the world. As the region accelerates toward a more industrial and interconnected future, one question must be asked. Are we just expanding our ports, or are we securing our prosperity? The answer will determine how far and how smart, secure, and geen the Gulf travels on the path to economic leadership. The writer is the CEO at Neptune P2P Group.
Filipino Times
a day ago
- Filipino Times
Abu Dhabi approves AED4.62 billion housing package for over 3,000 Emiratis
A new AED4.62 billion housing package has been approved in Abu Dhabi to support 3,052 Emirati families with home loans and debt relief, under the directives of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The announcement comes just before Eid Al Adha and is part of the country's ongoing efforts to improve the lives of its citizens, especially in building stronger families and communities. Out of the total amount, AED4.4 billion will go to housing loans for 2,862 citizens, while AED212 million will cover loan exemptions for 190 low-income retirees and families of deceased citizens. This is the second housing aid released in 2025, raising the year's total housing benefits in Abu Dhabi to AED11.38 billion. The Abu Dhabi Housing Authority said the package is meant to provide better homes and reduce the financial burden on Emiratis, helping families live more comfortably and securely. Officials also highlighted earlier housing support efforts, including the AED250,000 community subsidy and the option to cut monthly loan payments by up to 50%.
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Khaled clears Dhs4.62b housing benefits for 3,052 citizens
Under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has approved a housing benefits package worth Dhs4.62 billion, benefiting 3,052 Emirati citizens across the emirate. The approved housing benefits package includes housing loans amounting to Dhs4.4 billion benefiting 2,862 citizens, and exemptions from housing loan repayments totalling Dhs212 million benefiting 190 citizens, limited-income retirees and beneficiaries of deceased citizens. The disbursement of the second housing package of 2025 comes ahead of Eid Al Adha and reflects the leadership's ongoing commitment to comprehensive development, enhancing the well-being and stability of Emirati families, empowering them to actively contribute to the nation's progress, in line with UAE Year of Community objectives aimed at strengthening social cohesion and reinforcing community solidarity. This package brings the total housing benefits delivered to citizens in Abu Dhabi in 2025 to Dhs11.38 billion. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, said, 'The new housing benefits package reflects the leadership's commitment to empowering citizens through the provision of quality housing that promotes family stability and elevates quality of life. On this occasion, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and to His Highness Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, for their enduring support to advance the housing sector and foster a thriving and cohesive society.' Hamad Hareb Al Muhairi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, said, 'The second housing package of 2025 highlights the depth of our leadership's strategic vision to build a prosperous future, enhancing quality of life and providing sustainable housing solutions that meet Emirati citizens' needs and aspirations. 'The generous support from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, reaffirms the leadership's steadfast commitment to fostering social and family stability and ensuring a fulfilling life for Emirati families.' The housing benefits package follows the recent endorsement of an additional community support subsidy of Dhs250,000 for existing beneficiaries of housing loans, including a reduction of up to 50 per cent in monthly loan instalments, and a wide range of other services and facilities. WAM
