ABU DHABI, 1st February, 2023 (WAM) -- The National Experts Programme (NEP) has contributed to the development of 15 UAE-based specialists over an eight-month programme that combines academics, immersive work experience, and mentoring by sector leaders to foster knowledge exchange and innovative thinking.

Now in its third edition, NEP focuses on three strategic clusters: Economic Growth, Social Development, and Sustainability and Infrastructure.

"The National Experts Programme, created to contribute to the UAE's long-term strategic economic development, will be an essential platform to recognise promising young leaders and nurture national talent," Ahmed Talib Al Shamsi, Director of the Programme, said.

Developed in 2019 under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, NEP is a launchpad for UAE-based specialists who strive to play a leading role in the transformation and future growth of sectors aligned with the UAE's national priorities.

Al Shamsi added that the programme supports the UAE's strategic vision and fosters the development of sector leaders by cultivating specialised expertise and leadership skills in outstanding UAE-based professionals and equipping them to make a transformative impact on key social and economic sectors.

"Through interactive and experiential activities, dialogue, and guided reflection, a selection of high-level, industry-leading mentors accelerate the personal and professional development of NEP participants, further cementing the value of lifelong learning, innovation and education as key pillars in the nation's ongoing progress," he noted.

Al Shamsi added, "Sustainability has been a focus of the programme since its first edition, with many NEP alumni, mentors and current participants leading in sectors across the field. Aligning with the UAE's Year of Sustainability initiative, this edition's coursework will see the participants work together to develop reports outlining the impact of COP28 on their sectors and meet with heads of sustainability businesses across the UAE."

He stated that the programme's objectives are aligned with the leadership's goals of fostering a culture of lifelong learning, education and professional excellence. NEP will advance a range of critical socio-economic sectors and play a pivotal role in the ongoing transformation and growth of the UAE.

The programme's selection criteria include an in-depth analysis of each candidate's profile to assess their sector-specific knowledge and skills.