ADAFSA and Silal Group Launch Training Initiative for Alternative National Service Recruits

A strategic partnership between the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority and the UAE's leading agri-food group will equip national talent with essential skills to support food security operations during emergencies.

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) and Silal Group have formalised a cooperation agreement designed to train and qualify Alternative National Service recruits, strengthening the nation’s capacity to maintain critical food operations during periods of crisis or emergency.

The partnership, signed on 8th October at the Global Food Week 2026 conference, establishes an eleven-month integrated programme combining theoretical instruction with practical application. Recruits will acquire both knowledge and hands-on experience essential for performing critical and administrative functions across Silal’s food facilities and logistics operations, working in coordination with the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority.

H.E. Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Acting Director-General of ADAFSA, emphasised the initiative’s significance within the broader Alternative National Service Programme. He noted that the scheme represents a pioneering national approach to channelling young Emirati talent towards strategic sectors vital to societal security and stability, particularly food security. Through partnerships with leading enterprises such as Silal Group, the Authority endeavours to cultivate a generation of specialists equipped with the practical expertise and advanced knowledge necessary to sustain operations across critical food infrastructure.

The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to developing national capabilities and enhancing preparedness across sectors fundamental to food security. By investing in human capital and professional development, both entities reinforce the resilience and long-term sustainability of the nation’s food system whilst strengthening readiness to address emerging challenges.

H.E. Dhafer Al Qasimi, Group CEO of Silal, expressed pride in the group’s contribution to the UAE’s sustainable food security ecosystem. He highlighted how the partnership demonstrates Silal’s operational expertise and capacity to prepare national talent capable of ensuring continuity of this essential system under all circumstances. The collaboration reflects the group’s commitment to supporting the nation’s food security architecture through structured workforce development.

Under the agreement, Silal will deliver comprehensive training programmes for designated roles according to approved methodologies, whilst ADAFSA will oversee programme management, evaluation, and outcomes assessment. Both entities will conduct pilot and final exercises to evaluate recruits’ practical competency. The programme welcomes recruits holding a high school certificate or equivalent qualification, in accordance with standards established by the National and Reserve Service Authority. Successful graduates will participate in annual two-week refresher training to maintain operational readiness.

Source: WAM