As automation and advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), transform almost every aspect of work and daily life, both public and private sector organisations are working tirelessly to develop a future-ready workforce. Specifically, governments and businesses around the world are building the next generation of employees who are equipped with skills and capabilities to meet the opportunities and challenges of the future and drive the next wave of innovation.

A global hub for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has been eagerly investing in shaping the future of skills and jobs through a broad range of policy programmes and strategies over the past decade. Developing skills in disruptive technologies and accelerating innovation are at the very centre of the UAE government’s Centennial Plan 2071, which outlines the country’s vision on economic growth, social development, education and governance for the next five decades. Additionally, skill development in advanced technologies is a core objective of the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which aims to position the country as the first in the field of AI investments across sectors.

 

 

Future of Work in AI

 

The UAE National Artificial Intelligence Program – BRAIN is a comprehensive policy initiative that aims to support advancements in AI and Robotics through a wide range of skill development and educational activities and industry collaborations. The Program includes training for government employees, AI Summer Camps for students and government executives, as well as an internship programme in partnership with technology firm Dell EMC to train 500 Emirati students in AI applications.

 

The National Artificial Intelligence Program also includes a Bachelor Degree in AI at the British University in Dubai. Recently, the National Program partnered with the Kellogg College at the University of Oxford to launch the third edition of the Artificial Intelligence Program, which saw participants from 30 ministries, government organisations, and private sector enterprises.

 

Private sector organisations are also eagerly investing in skill development programs, in collaboration with the government and on their own. For example, technology giant General Electric (GE) has partnered with Abu Dhabi-based Mubadala to develop local talent in advanced technologies at its Leadership Acceleration for Business (LAB) Initiative. In 2019, French multinational Thales Group and Atlas Elektroniks GmbH, in agreement with industry enabler Tawazun, announced the launch of an Underwater Training Centre to provide professional training for the UAE Naval Forces on anti-submarine counter-attacks and naval systems, incorporating AI and Big Data.

 

 

Looking Beyond AI

 

 

Certainly, future-ready skills are being developed in areas beyond AI – it includes sectors such as space technology and renewable energy. In 2015, the UAE-based global satellite operator Yahsat established the first Master’s program in space studies in partnership with the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology and Orbital ATK. The program aims to encourage talent development and research in diversified and advanced technologies to support the UAE’s Mars Mission. 

 

To train the next-generation of leaders who can drive innovations in energy and water sectors, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) runs several initiatives, including skill development programs at the DEWA Campus for Occupational and Academic Development, to prepare young Emirati’s to become experts in research and development and 4IR technologies that are crucial for DEWA’s success and expansion. Additionally, DEWA houses the Smart Training and Education Centre, which includes facilities to train DEWA’s staff in Artificial Intelligence (AI), smart learning, 3D printing technology, project management and sustainability, among other disciplines.

 

According to the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, as the UAE government pursues increased sustainability and economic diversification, more jobs will be created in the areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy, green vehicles, e-vehicles and other energy-related areas in the coming years.

 

Called ‘Green Jobs’, these jobs will require the workforce equipped to handle a broad range of energy challenges and opportunities. According to the Ministry, the number of Green Jobs are expected to grow from roughly 49,500 in 2019 to 68,000 in 2021 and 83,000 in 2030, with increased demand in renewable energy, waste management, and transport sectors driving this change.

 

Over the last few years, several government organisations have developed technical vocational education and training (TVET) programs to support increased demand for Green Jobs. For example, DEWA conducts a five-day solar PV training course to certify engineers as PV experts, while the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (ADQCC) is developing certification schemes in the areas of ventilation, air conditioning, renewable energy and heating.

 

As increased automation and changing business models create a profound impact on employment, governments across the world must prepare for the future of work. In addition, private sector enterprises, including both local and global entities, must actively invest in building a flexible and adaptable workforce that can meet the challenges of tomorrow and rapidly changing customer expectations. The world of work is changing fast and heading towards an exciting future – there is no better time than now to unlock the innovations and opportunities shaping the future of employment.