The UAE’s Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office has launched the “Digital Talents in Sharjah” initiative, a major collaboration aimed at cultivating a new generation of tech-ready professionals. The program brings together the University of Sharjah, the American University of Sharjah, and a roster of global tech giants including Google, Oracle, upGrad, and Microsoft to close the gap between academic learning and the demands of the digital economy.
Quick Facts
- A two-year government-led upskilling program.
- Partners include Google, Oracle, and Microsoft.
- Focuses on AI and practical digital skills.
A Public-Private Push for AI Readiness
The two-year initiative represents a strategic model of collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector. It was launched in the presence of His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications. The agreement aims to build an integrated ecosystem for developing national talent in artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies.
Saqr Binghalib, Executive Director of the AI Office, stated that the initiative reflects the UAE Government’s commitment to strengthening its global leadership in AI by investing in human capital. He noted that the program 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.”
Bridging the Academia-Industry Gap
The program directly addresses the challenge of ensuring graduates possess the practical skills required by the modern workforce. By providing hands-on training and professional qualification opportunities, the initiative aims to make graduates more competitive and ready to contribute to the UAE’s knowledge economy.
Professor Dr. Esameldin Agami, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, commented that the partnership aligns with the university’s mission to prepare graduates who can effectively integrate into the job market. “Aligning educational outcomes with the evolving demands of the digital economy requires more than curricula alone,” he said. “It calls for strong, strategic collaboration with leading global technology companies that are shaping this landscape.”
Big Tech Commits to Upskilling
The involvement of major technology companies is central to the initiative’s hands-on approach. Each partner will contribute specialized training and resources.
Google will deliver workshops focused on the practical applications of its Gemini AI model in marketing, business management, and idea generation, as part of its broader “AI for All” initiative with the AI Office.
Amr Aljundi, General Manager at Oracle for the Middle East and Africa, praised the partnership for its role in empowering students with future-ready skills, highlighting Oracle’s commitment to building a promising generation of national talent.
Representing Microsoft, Caroline Mutepfa, AI Skills Director for Microsoft Elevate, explained that the company aims to prepare students for an AI-powered future by providing practical tools and governance frameworks. She added that Microsoft Elevate will help advance “an AI-first education ecosystem” by providing access to the latest Copilot resources and upskilling programs to enable personalized learning.
About Digital Talents in Sharjah
The “Digital Talents in Sharjah” initiative is a government-led program designed to develop digital skills and bridge the gap between academic outcomes and job market requirements in the UAE. Through partnerships with top universities and global technology companies, it provides students and graduates with hands-on training, specialized programs, and professional certifications in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies to foster a generation ready to drive innovation in the knowledge economy.
Source: Zawya
