Sharjah Ruler Launches Pioneering National Talents Programme in Partnership with University of Exeter
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi inaugurates a transformative initiative designed to align professional development with career progression, offering government employees specialised academic pathways through partnership with a leading British institution.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has formally launched the inaugural cycle of the Sharjah National Talents Programme, a strategic initiative developed to enhance professional capabilities and career advancement within the Emirate’s government institutions.
Held at the headquarters of the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research and attended by members of the ruling family and senior officials, the ceremony marked a significant milestone in Sharjah’s commitment to human capital development and institutional excellence.
The programme represents a departure from traditional approaches to professional qualification. Rather than enabling employees to pursue academic degrees disconnected from their roles, the initiative ensures that educational pathways directly serve specific government positions and career trajectories. His Highness articulated the programme’s philosophy during his address, emphasising that qualifications must translate into practical knowledge that strengthens institutional performance.
In recognition of academic excellence, the Emirate has partnered with the University of Exeter, a distinguished British institution whose advancement to the highest echelons of global academia informed Sharjah’s selection decision. The partnership encompasses bespoke postgraduate programmes tailored to government sector requirements, including the Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Applied Management and the Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership, with additional specialised qualifications to follow.
The programme’s structure combines rigorous academic study with practical application. Participants will benefit from hybrid learning models featuring visiting professors and executives, mentoring sessions, applied graduation projects, and opportunities to pursue further master’s-level studies. Importantly, His Highness underscored that career advancement in Sharjah now correlates directly with academic achievement and professional capability, creating clear pathways for motivated individuals from the beginning of their careers.
Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Department of Human Resources, affirmed that the initiative embodies His Highness’s vision of building institutional strength through human development. He highlighted the programme’s role in deepening specialisation, developing leadership capabilities, and preparing talented individuals to assume greater responsibilities in public service.
Dr Lisa Roberts, President of the University of Exeter, expressed the institution’s commitment to the partnership, noting that the university has designed specialised programmes addressing government sector needs. She referenced existing academic collaborations between the university and Sharjah’s higher education institutions in marine sciences and geology, emphasising the foundation upon which this expanded partnership builds.
Following formal proceedings, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research and the University of Exeter, establishing the framework for sustainable academic collaboration and talent development.
Source: WAM