The Youth Council of Dubai Media Incorporated has concluded its "Capacity Building in Media and Diplomacy" programme, organised in collaboration with the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, with the aim of preparing young national cadres equipped with specialised skills and knowledge to keep pace with rapid transformations in the fields of media and diplomacy.
The programme also sought to enhance participants' readiness to contribute effectively to representing the United Arab Emirates with competence and professionalism at various local and international forums and events. The programme attracted a select group of university students, graduates, and individuals interested in media and diplomacy, aged between 18 and 35, and reflects both parties' commitment to investing in youth and qualifying them to help shape the future of the media sector, support comprehensive development, and consolidate the UAE's influential presence on the global stage.
The closing ceremony featured a panel discussion entitled "Media in Crises", which addressed a range of topics shedding light on the role of media in crisis management, the importance of strategic communication in strengthening public trust in national institutions, and mechanisms for dealing with misinformation and rumours. It also reviewed best practices in crafting effective media messages and their role in raising societal awareness during crises and exceptional circumstances.
In a comment, Abdulaziz Al Jasmi, Chairman of the Council, affirmed that the programme reflects the institution's belief in the importance of investing in young national talents and empowering them with the tools of the future.
He noted that the integration of media and diplomacy has become one of the most important factors in enhancing countries' international presence and creating positive impact. He said: "Capacity building is not limited to the transfer of knowledge alone; it begins with cultivating a mindset capable of analysis, dialogue, and representing the nation with confidence, awareness, and responsibility.
"From this standpoint, we were keen for the programme to serve as an interactive space that combines expertise with practical application, giving participants the opportunity to develop their tools and build a broader understanding of the role of media and diplomacy in supporting national interests — contributing to the preparation of a generation equipped with the competence and readiness to participate in shaping the future and enhancing the nation's standing on the global map."
For her part, Sara Al Mansouri, Chair of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy's Youth Council, noted that the programme represents a model for partnerships aimed at providing an educational and training environment that combines academic knowledge with practical application, contributing to building a generation capable of understanding and engaging with global challenges.
She said: "The programme was a distinctive experience that gave participants the opportunity to explore the complementary relationship between media and diplomacy, and how the two can be employed together to build bridges of dialogue, enhance the country's positive image, and engage efficiently with global developments.
"We believe that empowering youth contributes to preparing national leaders with broad vision and the ability to represent the UAE with competence, and to convey its values and civilisational message to the world."
The programme concluded with the honouring of participants and the presentation of certificates of completion in recognition of their commitment and engagement with its various themes — a step that embodies both parties' keenness to continue developing quality initiatives aimed at preparing a generation equipped with the knowledge, skills, and awareness necessary to contribute to the nation's comprehensive development journey.