Dubai: The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), in partnership with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), hosted the inaugural edition of Future Circles, an interactive youth-leadership dialogue that brought together members of the Dubai Students Council with government leaders to exchange perspectives on the future of the UAE.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative reflects a shared commitment by MoEI and KHDA to creating platforms that place young people at the heart of national conversations and decision-making processes. This aligns with the "Leaders of Tomorrow" initiative, launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, which aims to empower youth through targeted AI, technology, and governance programmes.
Held in an open-circle format to encourage honest and meaningful conversations, the session featured Eng Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, and Dr. Amna Al Maazmi, CEO of the Growth and Human Development Sector at KHDA. The discussion focused on six key themes, including the future of careers, technology and artificial intelligence, youth aspirations, perceptions of government, and leadership in a rapidly evolving world.
Eng Al Olama emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, "The future is not something we build for young people; it is something we build with them. This Future Circle was designed as a genuine dialogue where leadership listens as much as it speaks, creating space for honest perspectives that can help shape better policies, services, and opportunities for future generations."
Dr. Al Maazmi highlighted the value of youth perspectives, saying, "Young people bring unique perspectives that challenge assumptions and inspire new ways of thinking. By creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue between students and decision-makers, we strengthen our ability to build an education ecosystem that is responsive, future-focused, and aligned with the aspirations of the next generation."
Throughout the session, participants explored how emerging technologies are shaping society, what motivates their generation, and how government institutions can better engage with youth. The dialogue also featured a reverse mentoring segment, where students offered advice and recommendations directly to government leaders, reinforcing the value of two-way learning and collaboration.
Future Circles is part of ongoing efforts by the MoEI and KHDA to strengthen youth engagement, foster innovation, and cultivate a culture of dialogue that supports the UAE's vision for sustainable and inclusive development.