Empowering youth to empower the nation

The energy transition is well underway, even if it is still in its infancy. Technological solutions are advancing rapidly, renewable energy demand and development is soaring. But to maintain and even accelerate this momentum we need to make sure that we effectively develop our human capital to ensure we can meet the demands of a complex and evolving energy landscape.

Today, on International Youth Day, I am reminded by a quote by the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan: “The real asset of any advanced nation is its people, and the prosperity and success of the people are measured by the standard of their education.”

The UAE’s economic trajectory is fueled by a forward-looking vision. Central to this progress is the development of homegrown talent. Earlier this year, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasised the critical role that young talents will play in the UAE's future as he announced the National Youth Agenda 2031, recognising young Emiratis as the nation's true wealth. By investing in vital skills, training, and mentorship, as well as by creating job opportunities, the UAE is building a robust talent ecosystem essential for continued economic growth.

Building a skilled workforce for the energy industry

The radical transformation that the energy sector is going through isn’t just about building the infrastructure, but also about developing a specialised workforce capable of tackling the new challenges. A recent analysis by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) states that the energy transition is expected to create 40 million additional jobs in the energy sector by 2050. This is just the latest in a long line of forecasts that underscore the immense employment opportunities the energy transition can provide. But to realise this potential, a comprehensive strategy is required to both cultivate a new generation of talent and equip the existing workforce through robust re- and upskilling programmes.

Government policy can create a robust framework to fill this requirement, but the strategic commitment of the private sector plays a crucial role in building a skilled workforce. Siemens Energy has started various initiatives to grow local talent in the energy sector, supporting the UAE along its journey.

In 2022 we kicked off our Apprenticeship Programme for Emirati youth in the UAE. The three-year apprenticeship gives high school and university graduates the opportunity to train at our Service Center in Abu Dhabi where they can acquire practical experience with energy technology, build key mechanical skills and familiarise themselves with our business operations.

Siemens Energy is a member of the Jusoor programme, which is a strategic initiative by Sandooq Al Watan and Aldar to prepare university seniors to thrive in the public sector through internships, mentoring and soft skills training. We have offered an 8-week internship opportunity to Emirati students at our global Innovation Centers in Abu Dhabi and Berlin, enabling students to gain insights into innovative energy solutions and learn first-hand from energy experts operating in an international company.

Our Innovation Center in Abu Dhabi was developed with the intention of creating a thriving hub for young talents. Established in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Khalifa University, the center aims to create over 75 high-skilled jobs by 2025. Young Emiratis learn how to accelerate and commercialise ClimateTech solutions and drive energy transition in partnership with customers, industrial partners, academia and research centers.  

The UAE's pursuit of economic growth and sustainability is linked to the development of a highly skilled and motivated workforce. To fully realise the potential of the Emirates’ talent pool, continued collaboration between the government, private sector, and educational institutions is essential. It’s more important than ever to train the next generation of energy sector innovators, creatives, and engineers, so we can build the sustainable energy systems of the future, to benefit society.