DUBAI: Dubai Future Academy, an initiative of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), launched the ‘FEEL: A Disruptive Futures Programme’.
This 4-week initiative welcomed the participation of 42 visionary leaders from 15 countries, taking part in 33 interactive workshops, hands-on experiences, and panel discussions over four weeks at the academy’s headquarters.
Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and Deputy Managing Director of DFF, welcomed the participants and emphasised that the rapid changes in various sectors present unique opportunities.
He stressed that preparing for the future requires capitalising on knowledge and tools of foresight, drawing on emerging and advanced technologies, and developing comprehensive work methodologies that anticipate and adapt to future shifts and demands.
Al Olama encouraged participants to consider the programme an opportunity to enhance their leadership, foresight, and strategic planning skills.
He urged them to apply the knowledge and expertise they will gain over the coming weeks to develop a broad vision for the future of the sectors they represent, benefiting their communities and organisations.
The programme received over 1,500 applications from nearly 100 countries. These applications were evaluated by a specialised committee based on specific criteria to select the final participants, who include C-level executives, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, policymakers, government officials, and specialists from various fields focused on designing the future.
The featured, 22 distinguished speakers and experts in foresight and future thinking, disruptive innovations, entrepreneurship, leadership, and longevity, including Professor Fadel Adib, recent winner of the ‘Great Arab Minds Award’; Professor Paul Saffo; Dr. Michael Shermer; Dr. Steven Novella; Dr. Danielle Belardo; Dr. Hassan Fahad Albalawi; Dr. Ant Rowstron, and many more, will deliver exceptionally high-quality talks and provided experientia
l future technologies.
Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO of DFF, highlighted that this first-of-its-kind programme in the region provides participants with a comprehensive educational experience. It includes field visits to major organisations to explore future trends and innovations, and tours to the UAE’s cutting-edge innovation hubs and labs to witness the latest future technologies.
AlJaziri also noted that over the course of the month, global talent participating in the programme will work on developing a range of impactful projects and ideas aimed at shaping the future of societies. Participants will also have the chance to exchange expertise and explore future collaboration opportunities across different sectors.
As part of the programme, Dubai Future Academy organises visits for participants to key innovation hubs and labs in Dubai and across the UAE. These visits will showcase the latest technological advancements being developed and applied by entities such as the Roads and Transport Authority, Duba
i Police, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, Dubai Future Labs, the Museum of the Future, and the Digital School’s recycling partner facilities.
Source: Emirates News Agency