ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

The Department of Community Development (DCD) has launched the first phase of interactive sessions for its Qudwati programme, designed to equip Emirati youth with the knowledge and skills to broaden their perspectives and make informed decisions across their personal, social, and professional lives.

Through interactive discussions and workshops, Qudwati connects Emirati youth with experienced role models, including retirees and professionals. Drawing on their careers and life experiences, mentors offer participants practical insights while strengthening connections across generations.

A total of 120 Emirati youth aged 18 to 24 from across Abu Dhabi are taking part, alongside 24 experienced role models, including retirees and government professionals, selected through a multi-stage nomination and selection process. A further 17 specialists from supporting organisations will also participate.

The sessions mark the programme’s practical phase, covering personal development and resilience, analytical thinking and financial decision-making, as well as choosing a life partner and building a stable married life. These topics encourage participants to reflect on their choices, ask questions, and draw on real-life experiences as they take on greater personal, family, and community responsibilities.

Dr Laila Al Hyas, Executive Director of the Family and Child Welfare Sector at the Department of Community Development, said: “The Qudwati programme aligns with national priorities and the objectives of the UAE Year of Family, reflecting our belief in the importance of investing in youth as future family-builders and active partners in the UAE’s development. Building strong, connected families starts with giving youth the knowledge, skills, and values to make informed decisions and confidently navigate the changes and challenges they may face throughout their lives.”

Al Hyas added that Qudwati recognises the valuable role retirees and experienced professionals can continue to play in society. By creating a space for dialogue across generations, the programme enables them to share their knowledge and life experiences, giving young participants new perspectives as they plan for their personal, family, and professional futures.

Al Hyas explained that the programme supports youth readiness across key areas of life, from personal development and managing challenges to financial planning and family life. It also reflects DCD’s wider approach to strengthening intergenerational ties and shared community responsibility by creating meaningful opportunities for experienced individuals to continue contributing to society.

The first session was held at Nabd Mohammed Bin Zayed City– Al Manhal and focused on personal development and resilience. It explored how participants can navigate different situations and challenges, using these experiences to strengthen their self-awareness and confidence.

The second session focused on analytical thinking and financial decision-making to help participants assess their options, consider potential outcomes, and plan ahead. A third session focused on choosing a life partner and preparing for married life, including the responsibilities of marriage and the foundations of family stability.

The programme will conclude in late October with a ceremony recognising participants for completing the sessions and contributing to dialogue and knowledge-sharing across generations.

Beyond the individual sessions, Qudwati builds lasting connections between generations by introducing youth to Emirati role models from diverse professional and personal backgrounds. This exchange promotes mutual understanding and strengthens relationships based on respect and appreciation.

Qudwati forms part of DCD’s efforts to develop youth capabilities and equip young people with the knowledge and experience to make informed decisions about their future. Through learning, dialogue, and shared experience, the programme empowers them to contribute actively to Abu Dhabi’s community.