In an exclusive interview with Telecom Review, Fatema Al Afeefi, Head of Employee Experience and HR Digitalization at du, elaborated on the company’s innovative ICT educational initiative and the importance of nurturing talent for the development of the digital economy.
What is the motivation behind the Future X Graduate Program?
The main thrust of the Future X Graduate Program is to nurture the upcoming future leaders by equipping them with essential capabilities, insights, and practical know-how. This initiative is in line with supporting the UAE’s strategic goals for Emiratization and the advancement of a digital economy, and the company’s vision of becoming the best digital telco.
Geared towards ushering in a new era of UAE-national tech enthusiasts fresh from their academic journeys, the initiative paves the way for a seamless transition into pivotal roles at the forefront of tech innovations in AI, digitalization, and intelligent solutions. This is a steppingstone into an era filled with intellectual contributions and is tailored to surge the industry forward.
du’s Future X program is focused on developing the pioneers and innovators of the future. It blends a thorough educational path with specialized mentoring and real-world experiences and fosters a tech-savvy workforce prepared for the digital future. Grounded in four foundational pillars—nurturing digital expertise, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence, instilling adaptability and integrity, and promoting team collaboration and involvement—Future X is committed to cultivating highly skilled Emirati professionals. These professionals are not only primed to meet today’s industrial needs but are also equipped to embrace and influence emerging technological horizons.
What are the requirements for interested candidates to participate in this program?
The Future X Graduate Program seeks candidates with a robust educational foundation. Applicants should have a keen interest in digitalization and the rapidly evolving landscape of emerging technologies. The ability to navigate new and challenging situations with ease, coupled with the capability to collaborate effectively within diverse team settings, marks a candidate as well-suited for the dynamic and forward-thinking environment that the Future X Graduate Program aims to foster.
How will the program contribute to the acceleration of Emiratization at du?
The Future X Graduate Program stands out as a strategic initiative dedicated to nurturing the professional growth of young Emirati talent, aligning closely with the national Emiratization agenda. At its core, the program promises comprehensive skill development by offering participants access to advanced training in essential technological and business areas, sharpening their competencies for leadership roles in the future.
A critical component of the program is mentorship, where graduates are paired with experienced professionals, fostering a nurturing environment for their professional development. This mentorship, combined with the program’s focus on cross-functional exposure through rotational assignments, ensures graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of the organization. Such exposure is invaluable, equipping them with a versatile skill set and enabling them to make meaningful contributions across various business functions.
Additionally, the program features a Tech-talk Series, engaging participants in discussions about current market trends and compelling them to think critically and develop solution-oriented approaches. This component further hones their analytical and problem-solving skills.
The Future X Graduate Program is designed to not only facilitate professional development but to also retain and nurture Emirati talent, ensuring their progression within du and contributing to a steady pipeline of skilled UAE nationals that are prepared to take on key roles within the organization.
Overall, the program embodies a significant investment in the future of Emirati professionals, ensuring their readiness to contribute effectively to the national workforce and drive the country's strategic objectives forward.
How will the Future X program align with the UAE government's Digital Strategy 2025?
The Future X Graduate Program by du aligns harmoniously with the UAE's Digital Strategy 2025 as it fosters the digital proficiency of young Emiratis through advanced training in AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity. By cementing an innovation-centric culture and exposing participants to cutting-edge technological trends, the program contributes to the UAE's ambition to lead in global digital technology.
The emphasis on digital skills across business operations supports the nation's push towards a digital economy, while partnerships with technology leaders enhance access to the latest tools and best practices. The cultivation of future digital leaders through this program reinforces the UAE's vision for a digitally-savvy workforce that is capable of driving smart government initiatives and the broader digital transformation agenda.
