ABU DHABI, 23rd February, 2023 (WAM) – The National Service and Reserve Authority (NSR) and the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the capabilities of alternative national service recruits in data science and data engineering.
The MoU aligns with the UAE's leadership's vision of equipping young Emiratis with the necessary skills to handle emergencies and achieve objectives in critical situations.
The MoU was signed by Ahmed Mahmoud Fikri, Director-General of SCAD, and Brigadier-General Obaid Ali Al-Mansoori, Director of the Directorate of Information and Corporate Communication at NSR Authority.
As part of SCAD's 'Data Pioneers' programme, the MoU aims to provide comprehensive data science and engineering training to alternative national service members.
The programme leverages cutting-edge technologies and industry best practices to equip recruits with the skills to derive precise insights using sophisticated predictive models and generate high-quality statistical data.
Under the MoU, SCAD will provide educational resources to enhance alternative service recruits' awareness and proficiency in data science and engineering. The resources will help the trainees assimilate seamlessly into national projects, using the most optimal methodologies and advanced technological frameworks available in the statistical realm.
Brigadier-General Obaid Ali Al-Mansoori lauded the MoU as an opportunity to augment cooperation between NSR and SCAD, which aligns with the UAE's leadership's overarching vision of supporting the country's youth.
He emphasised the significance of enhancing the skill sets of the youth in emerging fields, ensuring that they remain attuned to the ever-evolving landscape and can navigate forthcoming challenges with dexterity.
The 'Data Pioneers' programme is part of SCAD's strategy to develop a decentralised statistical ecosystem through a robust information network involving statistically qualified individuals who can produce reliable statistical models to predict the future of economic, social, and environmental sectors across Abu Dhabi.
The comprehensive eleven-month programme includes a selection process comprising six tests that evaluate personal, technical, and statistical skills, in addition to verbal, numerical, and abstract proficiencies.
The selected candidates are then subjected to an interview process that gauges their practical experience and suitability for the programme. The 'Data Pioneers' programme provides trainees with an exceptional opportunity to gain expertise in data science and engineering, where they will undergo accredited specialised courses for a period of three months. The Statistical Training Institute (STI) of SCAD offers these courses in collaboration with the Rochester Institute of Technology, Dubai.
After completing the training programme, the trainees engage in practical training for eight months. During this period, they will actively participate in statistical projects, where they can prepare more advanced statistical scenarios per the best international standards and practices. The trainees receive an accredited international certificate at the end of the programme, qualifying them to work in the field of data science.
The tests were designed according to the best international standards and practices, using the latest AI solutions, including ChatGPT, to identify the personal skills, learning abilities, and technical qualifications required of the participants. The results were then analysed to select the candidates quickly and determine the most appropriate technical field for each trainee.