Emirates Youth Council For Agriculture Launched To Empower Young Emiratis In Sustainability And Innovation

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), in partnership with the Federal Youth Authority, has introduced the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture. This initiative is designed to empower young Emiratis to contribute to agricultural innovation, sustainability, and national food security. The announcement was made during the third day of the inaugural Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition at the ADNEC Centre in Al Ain.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, highlighted the council's role in engaging youth in agriculture. She stated, "This council is a platform for innovation, a catalyst for change, and a channel for impactful youth-led initiatives." The council aims to equip young people with knowledge and tools to address environmental and food security challenges.

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Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, emphasised that this initiative aligns with national values by involving youth in a strategic sector that supports sustainable income and family stability. "Agriculture is a pillar of Emirati society, reflecting our culture and resilience," she said. The initiative encourages youth participation in agriculture as a means to strengthen community ties.

Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, noted that the council aligns with the National Youth Agenda 2031. He remarked, "Youth Councils today are not just platforms for dialogue, but national laboratories for ideas and execution, especially in vital sectors like agriculture and sustainability." This underscores the UAE’s commitment to empowering its youth.

The Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture includes young experts from various sectors across the UAE. Members such as Mahra Al Mazrouei, Saeed Al Rumaithi, Hamad Al Karbi, Asma Ameer, Yousef Al Raisi, Abdulrahman Al Ali, Salem Al Saeedi, Bashayer Al Zaabi, Mansour Al Hosani, Taif Al Raisi, Al Maha Al Muhairi, Amal Al Muhairi, Laila Al Dhaheri and Saeed Al Muhairi will support research and smart agricultural practices.

A Youth Circle titled "From the Family Begins Agriculture: A Foundation for Cultivating Environmental and National Belonging" was held as part of Youth Day activities. Moderated by Laila Al Dhaheri, this session featured insights from Dr. Al Dahak, Sana Suhail and Dr. Al Neyadi on how families can foster an appreciation for agriculture linked to identity and heritage.

Legacy of Sheikh Zayed

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak mentioned that Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's vision connected agriculture to civilisation. She said instilling a love for agriculture nurtures loyalty and belonging: "It’s not only about food but about connection to the land, heritage and future." This legacy continues to guide UAE’s agricultural initiatives.

Sana Suhail added that agriculture is integral to life: "As families we must raise generations that understand its value and embrace its role in securing our future." This highlights how family involvement can shape future generations' understanding of agriculture's importance.

Future Goals

The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 forms part of the Plant the Emirates national programme inspired by Sheikh Zayed’s legacy. It aims to enhance UAE food security by expanding green areas while promoting fresh local products with high nutritional value to reduce carbon emissions.

Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi concluded that every youth-led idea in agriculture contributes significantly towards achieving UAE’s sustainability goals: "The journey starts with the family." This statement reinforces how individual contributions can collectively impact national objectives positively.

With inputs from WAM