MoF And IMF Discuss Strategies For Strengthening Economic Resilience Among Students

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) recently collaborated with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Zayed University to host a student session at Zayed University's Dubai campus. The event, titled "Maintaining Economic Resilience in an Uncertain World," attracted notable attendees including Younis Haji AlKhoori, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, and Jihad Azour, Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the IMF.

Approximately 150 students from various UAE universities participated in the session. These students were majoring in finance, economics, business administration, and communication. Universities represented included Zayed University, the American University in Dubai, and New York University Abu Dhabi, among others. The session aimed to engage students in discussions about economic resilience.

Younis Haji AlKhoori highlighted that the UAE has developed an economic model characterised by agility and proactive planning. This model helps navigate global developments effectively. He emphasised that the federal government is committed to maintaining a strong financial framework that balances economic growth with fiscal discipline.

AlKhoori stated, "The UAE has placed great importance on building an economy capable of adapting to global fluctuations through prudent fiscal policies, income diversification, a supportive business and investment environment, and by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of sustainable growth." He also noted the Ministry's focus on medium- and long-term financial planning to optimise resource use.

Hosting the session at Zayed University underscores the Ministry's belief in youth's role in shaping future economies. AlKhoori stressed that engaging with students fosters economic awareness and encourages them to contribute to future policymaking. He praised the collaboration with the IMF for advancing policies that enhance economic resilience globally.

Jihad Azour pointed out that regional economies have shown strong resilience against global shocks due to gradual economic diversification and improved policy frameworks. He mentioned that the October 2025 Regional Economic Outlook Report highlights policies needed to strengthen economic resilience while creating quality jobs for young people.

Importance of International Collaboration

Azour emphasised that partnerships between international institutions and national governments are crucial for regional economic stability. He commended the UAE Ministry of Finance's collaboration with the IMF as a reflection of its commitment to open dialogue and global knowledge exchange.

He further stressed investing in digital transformation and artificial intelligence to boost regional economic efficiency. This approach helps keep pace with global developments, enhancing productivity across various sectors.

Zayed University's Role

Prof. Michael Allen, Acting Vice President of Zayed University, expressed pride in hosting an event linking academic institutions with international economic entities. He affirmed that such initiatives foster a culture of economic dialogue among students while providing opportunities for direct engagement with policymakers.

Allen added, "Zayed University places particular importance on preparing students to understand global economic shifts and link theoretical knowledge with practical application." The university aims to equip students to contribute to national development and enhance the UAE’s position as a global hub.

Student Engagement

The event saw active student participation, with questions focusing on digital transformation, labour market changes, and artificial intelligence's impact on growth. An interactive discussion between Jihad Azour and attendees explored regional integration opportunities and ways to strengthen cooperation across regions.

The participants agreed that this session exemplified constructive collaboration between academia and economic entities. It served as an initiative bridging academic thought with policymaking while expanding young people's understanding of economic dynamics.

With inputs from WAM