Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi: Government readiness for the future begins with empowering its people to shape it
Sharjah, August 2026: Sharjah Digital Department SDD, in collaboration with PwC Academy Middle East, launched the second cohort of the “Data and AI Mastery Programme”, as part of its efforts to advance the objectives of the Sharjah Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028. The programme focuses on developing the digital capabilities of Government of Sharjah employees and enabling them to harness data and artificial intelligence to support decision-making, enhance government efficiency, and develop more proactive, human-centred services.
The programme brings together 40 participants from 25 government entities across Sharjah. Running from late August until November 2026, it combines theoretical knowledge with practical application across a range of areas related to data, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
H.E. Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of SDD, said: “Today, we are witnessing a rapid transformation in the way governments operate, with data and artificial intelligence becoming essential tools for understanding needs, anticipating challenges, and making more informed and effective decisions. In Sharjah, we want this transformation to translate into tangible impact on government performance, the quality of services, and the lives of people and the wider community.”
H.E. added: “Achieving this ambition begins with investing in people and developing government talent equipped with the knowledge, skills and ability to apply them in practice. Through this programme, we continue to develop the capabilities of Government of Sharjah employees and equip them with the tools they need to keep pace with technological advancements and contribute to the development of government work.”
H.E. emphasised that the programme’s ambition goes beyond acquiring technical knowledge, saying: “Our aim is to develop talent capable of turning knowledge into practical application; to make better decisions, develop new solutions, and create meaningful impact across government entities, individuals and the wider community. Government readiness for the future begins with empowering its people to shape it.”
The second cohort builds on SDD’s continued investment in people and government capabilities as a key pillar of sustainable digital transformation. It supports the development of a government ecosystem that is equipped to keep pace with technological advancements and harness them effectively and responsibly, ultimately enhancing government performance and the quality of services delivered to the community.
