Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Al Dhafra Youth Council, in collaboration with the Nafis Youth Council, the UAE Youth Council for Entrepreneurship, and the UAE Youth Council for Agriculture, organised the first youth circle as part of the Liwa Dates Festival 2025.
Held under the theme 'Agricultural Innovation.. An Opportunity for Youth in Entrepreneurship', the circle saw the attendance of key decision-makers, government officials, and young Emirati entrepreneurs working in the agricultural sector.
The circle was attended by Dr Sultan Bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority; Ghannam Al Mazrouei, Secretary General of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (Nafis); and Moaza Al Nasri, Chief Executive Officer of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development. The attendees expressed their support for youth participation in further advancing the agricultural sector, and strengthening sustainability pathways.
The circle highlighted agriculture as a promising path for youth entrepreneurship, particularly in Al Dhafra region, and featured discussions of real-life experiences of young Emiratis who have successfully launched innovative projects after working in the private sector. Key topics included structural challenges in the agricultural market, and the need for targeted training and financial support to enable youth.
A group of Emirati youth shared their inspiring entrepreneurial journeys, underscoring the importance of field experience in understanding the local market and launching projects that contribute to economic development and sustainable growth.
Several initiatives aimed at empowering youth and enhancing their presence in the agricultural sector were announced during the circle. These included the announcement of an agricultural guidebook by the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture, the designation of dedicated spaces for young entrepreneurs to showcase their products at upcoming agricultural festivals, and providing job opportunities for youth in agricultural fields within the private sector.
The event concluded with the Youth Councils extending their gratitude to all participating and supporting entities and reaffirming its commitment to organising future circles that foster meaningful dialogue between youth and decision-makers, paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural future in the UAE.
