Schneider Electric Unveils AED 100 Million Initiative To Develop Next-Generation Talent In UAE Education Sector
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee, highlighted Dubai's ongoing efforts to establish itself as a leading global hub for future economies. This is achieved by nurturing innovation, empowering talent, attracting investments, and promoting a digital economy based on knowledge and sustainability. These initiatives align with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the top three urban economies worldwide within the next decade.
The launch of Schneider Electric’s AED100 million initiative in the UAE education sector coincided with the opening of its new office, The NEST, in Dubai Silicon Oasis. This facility is part of Schneider Electric's Global Impact Buildings programme and marks a significant investment in the UAE’s sustainable economic future. The NEST serves as a centre for innovation and collaboration.
During the launch event, H.H. Sheikh Mansoor emphasised Dubai's commitment to fostering an environment where leading companies can thrive and contribute to national growth. He stated: "Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation, sustainability, and the digital economy by fostering an ecosystem where the world’s leading companies can flourish and actively contribute to our national growth."
He was joined by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni from DIEZ; Olivier Blum, CEO of Schneider Electric; Walid Sheta, MEA Zone President; and Amel Chadli, President of Gulf Cluster at Schneider Electric. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort between public and private sectors in advancing Dubai's economic goals.
Schneider Electric aims to equip UAE's next generation with skills needed for leadership in this new era. The company focuses on sustainability education, modernising engineering labs with advanced technologies, and offering hands-on learning through mentorships and research collaborations with universities and industry partners.
Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni remarked: "The inauguration of Schneider Electric’s new regional headquarters at Dubai Silicon Oasis marks a significant milestone in our longstanding partnership since 2008." He added that this smart building reflects their shared commitment to sustainability and smart urban development.
Commitment to Education and Upskilling
Amel Chadli expressed Schneider Electric’s dedication to upskilling UAE youth in line with national goals for a competitive knowledge-based economy. Chadli said: "Our commitment towards upskilling UAE youth closely aligns with the nation’s vision to build a competitive, knowledge-based economy."
The five-year initiative will be implemented in phases to adapt to evolving needs of students and educators while supporting industrial growth. It aims to keep the UAE ahead of global trends by building a workforce ready for future challenges.
Engaging Youth in Sustainability
Schneider Electric actively engages UAE youth through initiatives like Tamayuz, which empowers Emirati graduates and promotes women's participation in industry roles. Additionally, FEM in STEM supports women in engineering fields. The company also launched UAE NextGen Go Green at COP28 to inspire university students to create sustainable city solutions.
This comprehensive approach ensures that young people are well-prepared to contribute significantly to the nation's sustainability agenda while fostering innovation across various sectors.
With inputs from WAM


