The National Experts Program (NEP) today launched its third edition and will be accepting applications from the 1st of July 2022. The program is a launchpad for Emirati technical experts who wish to play a leading role in the transformation of future-growth sectors aligned with the UAE’s national priorities.
Introduced in 2019 and held under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, NEP fosters the development of sector leaders and technical experts who will help shape the country’s future. The program cultivates a pool of Emirati professionals recognized as outstanding performers in their field and equips them to effect a transformative impact on key social and economic sectors.
NEP combines mentorship by influential government and business leaders with the expertise of executive educators and sector-specific specialists from leading partner organizations around the world to instill five key mindsets for lifelong learning: Reflective, Analytical, Worldly, Collaborative, and Action.
The third edition will focus on enhancing the skills and knowledge of 15 professionals across three key clusters: Economic Growth, Social Development, and Sustainability and Infrastructure. One applicant will be chosen to represent each of 15 sectors that are central to achieving the UAE’s strategic objectives.
Participants in each cohort undertake a rigorous program designed to hone their leadership skills and expertise while working on strategic projects in their sectors that address specific priorities identified by UAE leadership.
Developed in partnership with local and international academic and sector leaders, the program will enable applicants to further specialize in their chosen sectors, leverage their skills and knowledge to act decisively, and help drive the UAE’s future growth.
Participants in the third edition of NEP representing the fields of economic development; advanced sciences and research; technology and innovation; space; media and the creative industries; and tourism, retail and lifestyle will be part of the Economic Growth cluster, while Social Development will include those working in culture and heritage; education; health and well-being; community development and social services; and policy and government services. Nationals who hold roles within the sectors of environment and climate change; mobility and logistics; energy and renewables; and food and water security will join the Sustainability and Infrastructure cluster.
The eight-month program will include collaborative activities and thought-provoking educational experiences, offering a combination of in-field work and classroom learning. With both their advisors and mentors, participants will chart a unique course that aligns with their individual professional, personal, and sector-specific development needs. Combining their existing sector experience with learnings from the program curriculum, participants will contribute to transformative projects of national impact.
Commenting on the launch of the third edition, His Excellency Ahmed Talib Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation and Director of the National Experts Program, stated: “As the UAE continues its journey of positioning itself as a key global player for trade, tourism and business, the National Experts Program provides a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for aspiring Emiratis to play a central role in shaping a better future for citizens and residents by joining a unique initiative that is aligned with the UAE’s national priorities. We continue to focus on developing our leaders of tomorrow while also ensuring those leaders have deep expertise and specialization in the sectors that are the foundation of our future economy.”
Since the National Experts Program launched, it has brought together the ambition of its participants, the teachings of top educators, and the expertise of UAE government and business leaders to contribute to the development of the country. To date, 46 Emiratis from a wide range of backgrounds have benefited greatly from the knowledge and experience NEP mentors and partners have imparted. Graduates from the program’s first two cohorts have seven projects being implemented across their sectors, putting the skills they acquired into practice and helping drive positive and sustainable results that serve the nation.
“It is a testament to everyone involved in the program that these projects continue to have such a great impact on sector development, and it is why we are pleased to launch the third edition that will not only change the lives of the participants who will be able to go on and serve the nation as leaders but also help contribute to the development of the UAE for years to come,” His Excellency added.
The program is designed for Emirati professionals who aim to level up their ability to foster change, deepen their understanding of sector trends and practices, and contribute to the UAE’s centennial vision for economic growth.
Applicants to the third cohort must have at least 10 years of experience, including 5 years in their sector, and have contributed to strategic projects addressing national priorities. The application window will open on the 1st of July 2022. Individuals can visit www.uaenep.ae to apply or for more information on what makes a successful candidate.
