UAE Launches R&D Leadership Initiative to Boost Business Innovation
In a stride towards realising the United Arab Emirates' ambition of becoming an innovation and knowledge-based economy, the Emirates Research & Development Council has unveiled the National R&D Leadership Program. This initiative, overseen by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology’s General Secretariat team, is a collaborative effort involving the Advanced Technology Research Council and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences.
The National R&D Leadership Program is the first of its kind in the region, designed to nurture leaders in innovation by focusing on best practices in Research and Development management. The program aims to empower participants to champion excellence in R&D and innovation management, aligning with national R&D priorities and securing the UAE's status as a global hub for technological advancement.
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology, emphasised the essential role of investing in national capabilities to propel large-scale R&D programs. She stated, "This program is instrumental in equipping exceptional local talent with hands-on experience to enhance the impact of a diverse range of R&D projects and innovation across the nation."
Addressing the global tech talent gap, His Excellency Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary General of the Advanced Technology Research Council, highlighted the importance of empowering local talent and leaders with expertise to ensure the UAE's preparedness for rapid growth on the global innovation stage.
The program's curriculum, tailored to the specific needs of the UAE's R&D ecosystem, comprises carefully selected modules covering the entire R&D journey. Participants will learn to strategise, plan, manage, and commercialise R&D projects, collaboration, efficiency, and streamlined governance in R&D. Modules include principles of R&D and innovation management, managing R&D units, developing R&D strategy, operating R&D funds, and grand challenges. Additionally, participants will explore technology transfer, managing IP strategy, and R&D evaluation.
The National R&D Leadership Program brings together 22 carefully selected UAE nationals from 20 entities across public, private, and academic sectors. This diverse assembly aims to a collaborative environment encouraging synergies among government officials, private sector leaders, and academia.
Delivered by New York University Abu Dhabi and the University of Manchester, the program spans seven months. Participants will acquire technical expertise and engage in various learning methodologies, including group assignments, site visits, mentorship sessions, and interactive activities. The program seeks to ensure that participants can apply the acquired knowledge and skills effectively.
As the UAE continues to make strides in innovation, the National R&D Leadership Program stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to cultivating a robust ecosystem for research, development, and technological advancement.
