Arab Government Sustainability Fellowship celebrates graduation of first cohort

DUBAI, 20th May, 2025 (WAM) -- The Arab Government Sustainability Fellowship, the region’s first-of-its-kind initiative to empower public sector leaders in sustainability, has celebrated the graduation of its inaugural cohort.

Organised by the UAE Government Development & Future Office, in collaboration with the Arab Administrative Development Organisation (ARADO), one of the League of Arab States organisations, and the Posterity Institute, this milestone marks a significant step in ongoing Arab efforts to strengthen environmental governance.

Ohood Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future, said, “Sustainability is at the core of future governance – it is key to preparing governments and societies for the rapid changes the region and the world will face in the coming years and decades across all areas of human activity."

She added that the fellowship shows the UAE Government’s commitment to driving joint Arab action, as well as starting a new chapter where regional governments take the lead on sustainability, with clear goals and real results.

Dr. Nasser Alqahtani, Director-General of the Arab Administrative Development Organisation, League of Arab States, said, “Sustainability requires collaboration across borders, sectors, and generations. Through this fellowship, ARADO proudly supports the transformation of our region’s government institutions, building a shared future rooted in innovation, resilience, and impact.”

“This fellowship marks a turning point in how our region approaches sustainability in the public sector,” said Dr. Yasar Jarrar, Managing Director of the Posterity Institute.

He stressed the importance of preparing a new generation of government leaders capable of driving change amid the current climate, economic, and social challenges.

Wael Ismail, PepsiCo Vice President for Corporate Affairs in Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan, stated, “Climate change is already impacting our region in real ways, and tackling it requires governments and businesses to work side by side. This fellowship is a strong step toward building the skills and partnerships we need for a more sustainable future.”

The Arab Government Sustainability Fellowship is a flagship initiative led by the Irth Institute to empower a new generation of public sector leaders across the Arab World.