Abu dhabi: President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced the establishment of the National Programme for Advanced Sciences and Technologies. The programme aims to create an integrated national framework that connects education, research and development, and talent-building with the UAE's strategic and advanced industries, enhancing the nation's future readiness through an institutional system that supports innovation, competitiveness, and national sovereignty in vital sectors.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme is a strategic initiative designed to align the education and research system with rapid scientific and technological advancements and to direct the outcomes toward fields that meet the state's industrial and development priorities. A key focus of the programme is the investment in promising national talent, building a specialist base in science and advanced technologies, and preparing them for future disciplines that bolster the country's industrial capabilities and the competitiveness of Emirati products.
The decision also establishes the Higher Committee for the National Programme for Advanced Sciences and Technologies, which will oversee the strategic direction of the programme. Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the committee includes high-ranking officials such as H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Deputy Chairman and other prominent ministers and advisors.
The Higher Committee is tasked with approving the programme's key directions, policies, and initiatives, setting its budget, issuing necessary directives, and tracking progress against its objectives. The results and development recommendations are reported to the UAE President and the Prime Minister to enhance the programme's performance and sustainability.
The programme seeks to strengthen national industrial capabilities by linking research, education institutions, and innovation centers with industrial priorities. This connection aims to develop technical solutions that can be manufactured, scaled, and exported, impacting the UAE's position in science and advanced technology. Initial tracks include Technical Education and National Talent, National Service, Flagship Initiative, Global Challenge, Global Talent Attraction, and Technical Research and Innovation, with potential for additional tracks as the programme evolves.
An Executive Committee, chaired by Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, will operate under the Higher Committee's supervision. It will review and approve plans and initiatives, oversee their implementation, and track progress, ensuring alignment with the programme's objectives.
The programme also includes an office for coordination, tasked with preparing and integrating plans, policies, and initiatives, tracking implementation, and building partnerships. It provides support across the programme's committees and tracks, ensuring effective collaboration and progress.