UAE launches programme to empower Emirati youth address water challenges

The UAE has launched a national programme, titled "Water Pioneers", to empower young Emiratis with the knowledge, skills and leadership capabilities to shape the future of the water sector globally.

Unveiled by the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, the programme will select 15 Emiratis aged 18 to 35 from a range of academic disciplines and professional sectors.

It forms part of the initiative's commitment to strengthen the voice of Emirati youth in national and international dialogue on water issues.

Water-security challenges are mounting worldwide amid rising demand on water resources and the escalating effects of climate change, with global demand for sustainable water supplies projected to exceed available resources by up to 40 per cent by 2030. At the same time, 2.2 billion people worldwide still lack safely managed drinking water, 3.5 billion lack safe sanitation, and around 4 billion experience severe water scarcity for at least one month each year, underscoring the urgent need to accelerate innovation and develop sustainable solutions.

"By empowering new Emirati youth voices and strengthening water knowledge, the programme seeks to prepare talent capable of participating effectively in the global water dialogue, supporting pathways of innovation and collaboration, and developing solutions that respond to today's challenges and create lasting impact for the future," said Ayesha Al Ateeqi, Chief Executive Officer of the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative.

Applications for the programme can be submitted at the initiative's official website by October 7.