ABU DHABI, 21st March, 2023 (WAM) — The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) organised the Sustainability Forum 2023 under the theme, “Youth’s Role for a Better Future”, which highlighted the potential role of the youth in the UAE’s efforts to address climate change.
Dr. Faisal Al Ayyan, HCT President and CEO, said that the UAE is preparing to host the COP28 in 2023, the Year of Sustainability, highlighting the HCT’s keenness to participate in the country’s sustainability efforts, as well as the role of the youth in driving development.
The forum attracts speakers and specialists in sustainability from various countries to draft a roadmap for building the capacities of the youth and empowering them for a better future, he added.
Ibrahim Al Zu’bi, Senior Vice-President for Sustainability, Climate Change and Environmental, Social, and Governance, ADNOC, delivered a speech in the opening session titled "COP28: A roadmap for youth capacity-building for a sustainable tomorrow".
The forum plays a crucial role in highlighting the youth’s contribution to a sustainable future, by increasing their awareness, empowering them to take action and inspiring them to be creative and innovative.
Government representatives, decision-makers, and change agents actively participated in the event to empower digital approaches and activate hybrid and flexible work practices.
A number of well-known sustainability experts from various national and local institutions spoke at the forum, together with representatives from the private sector spoke about empowering youth with future skills and its impact on sustainability.
The Forum coincides with the UAE’s role as host of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) later this year and the declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.