The youth played a key role in building the UAE. Now, they will have a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation as it realises its dreams of a space programme, establishes itself as a hub of education and looks at a world beyond oil.
This is the message that His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, underlined when he asked universities to nominate three men and three women under the age of 25 for a ministerial job. He also asked members of the public to nominate one person. Shaikh Mohammad said youth under the age of 25 comprise half of Arab societies. It is, therefore, natural that attention be given to them and their concerns.
Shaikh Mohammad has always been a role model for the youth, inspiring them to create, innovate and become leaders of society. He believes in their capabilities and their role in society. Shaikh Mohammad has created countless opportunities for them in every sphere and every tier of life so that they can succeed. He has visited educational institutions, stressing that education is the foundation they must build for a bright future.
Shaikh Mohammad assumed the role of Vice-President and Prime minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai 10 years ago and during this time, he has believed that the youth are needed to inject energy and innovation in society. Reem Al Hashimi, Minister of State, embodies the trust Shaikh Mohammad has in the capabilities of the youth. She held key positions such as Deputy Chief of Mission at the UAE Embassy in Washington, before she was made Minister of State in the Cabinet. Al Hashimi delivered a rousing speech in Paris when Dubai presented its bid for Expo2020. As Managing Director of the Dubai Expo 2020 Higher Committee and Director General of Dubai Expo 2020 Bureau, she carries a massive responsibility to ensure the success of the event.
The UAE has always led the way in terms of innovation and technology. The leadership realises that is the key to progress. From space and Mars programmes, E-governance to apps that make life easier, the UAE has shown it looks ahead to the future. And the future of a nation is the youth. A minister under the age of 25 will be able to relate to the ideas, dreams and challenges of the youth. The minister will infuse energy and communicate fresh ideas that are needed for development.
The youth will have a voice in the Cabinet. And a country this committed to its youth will always be a pioneer.
