The UAE has launched a new youth finance training initiative aimed at preparing high-achieving Emirati students for leadership roles in the country’s banking and financial sector.

The National Youth Finance Pioneers (NYFP) programme, developed by Education Interface in partnership with First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and supported by the Ministry of Education, concluded its inaugural edition this month under the patronage of Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior.

The UAE, like many Gulf states, has made youth empowerment a central pillar of its development strategy. With more than half of its population under the age of 35, preparing Emirati nationals (especially for roles in key sectors such as finance) is viewed as vital to sustaining long-term growth and reducing reliance on foreign expertise.

Targeting Emirati students in grades 11 and 12, the scheme combines academic enrichment, leadership training and professional placements. More than 600 of the country’s top students, referred by the Ministry of Education, were initially considered. After a multi-stage assessment process that included academic screening, sector-specific evaluations, essays, and leadership reviews, only 30 students were selected for the final programme.

The chosen participants will now receive tailored training across FAB’s branches, alongside official certification recognising their achievement. Organisers said the programme aims to bridge the gap between education and workplace demands, while giving students first-hand experience in the banking sector.

“This initiative is a direct outcome of our mandate under the patronage and support of Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan,” said Dr Mouza Saeed Al Badi, CEO of Education Interface. “It reflects a shared commitment with our national partners to empower Emirati youth, particularly in advanced economic sectors.”

FAB Group CEO Hana Al Rostamani said the programme underscored the bank’s support for national development goals: “We remain steadfast in our commitment to nurture Emirati talent in the financial and banking sector. Through this pioneering initiative, we aim to empower professionals with the skills and opportunities to play a vital role in the nation’s journey of progress and sustainable development.”

The NYFP is part of a broader push by the UAE to equip young people with skills needed to drive its long-term development strategy, known as Vision 2030, which emphasises diversification and building a knowledge-based economy.

Source: WAM