Wed Sep 18 06:36:39 UTC 2024: ## Qatar Embraces Digital Skills to Shape Future Workforce
**Doha:** Qatar is actively investing in training and development programs to attract and retain skilled talent, particularly in the digital sector, as the nation embraces a strategic pathway towards a future-ready workforce. This was emphasized during a panel discussion at the Conteq Expo 2024, where experts from diverse industries lauded Qatar’s commitment to empowering its youth.
Duha Ali Al Buhindi, Director of Digital Society and Digital Competencies at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), highlighted the ministry’s 36 digital development priorities, including “Civil Security and Data Protection,” “Basics of Automation and AI,” and “Software Research.” She stressed the importance of investing in skills development to enhance productivity.
Al Buhindi highlighted MCIT’s initiatives focused on digital skills training for both government and private sector employees, aiming to create a dynamic workforce. The official also noted the significant recruitment expected in 2025 driven by digital priorities like AI and the ministry’s partnerships with leading companies such as Microsoft.
MCIT is also contributing to youth empowerment through initiatives like Studio 5, a digital fabrication lab offering workshops and hands-on programs to cultivate future technology creators.
Ghassan Kosta, General Manager of Google Cloud in Qatar, emphasized the crucial role of leadership commitment in youth empowerment. “Promoting equal opportunities and respect is the main culture of our organization because this is how we would be able to make a difference,” he said. Kosta stressed the importance of inclusive policies and practices, including equal pay benefits, flexible work environments, and diverse recruitment processes, to attract a wider pool of talent.
Amel Chadli, President of Gulf Countries, Schneider Electric, emphasized the transformative power of AI in reshaping the workplace. “Today we are automating and putting the artificial intelligence in our reporting system and this is creating new jobs,” she explained. Chadli noted that AI is not replacing jobs but rather creating new opportunities by enabling professionals to focus on higher-level tasks and analysis.
The panel discussion highlighted Qatar’s proactive approach in preparing its workforce for the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid technological advancements. By investing in digital skills development, fostering inclusive environments, and embracing the transformative potential of AI, Qatar is positioning itself as a leader in attracting and retaining talent, shaping a bright future for its workforce and its economy.
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