Abu dhabi: The Mohammed bin Rashid Government Scholarships Programme has launched the first cohort of students in the 'Master of Science in Economics' programme, in collaboration with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD). The programme aims to qualify national government talents with advanced skills in economic analysis and public policy formulation, thereby enhancing the ability of government entities to make data-driven and scientifically informed decisions.
According to Emirates News Agency, for the first time, the cohort includes a full group of Emirati students, specialists in the early and middle stages of their professional careers, some of whom hold positions in strategic government entities. This initiative is part of the programme's efforts to develop national leaders equipped with advanced analytical tools to support the design of economic policies and anticipate global transformations.
Majid Al Shamsi, Director of the Mohammed bin Rashid Government Scholarships Office, stated that the programme aligns with the UAE's vision of investing in national talent and providing government professionals with advanced knowledge and analytical tools. "Through the Mohammed bin Rashid Government Scholarships, we are keen to build high-quality academic pathways directly linked to the priorities and future needs of government work, ensuring the preparation of national cadres capable of leveraging specialised knowledge to develop public policies and enhance institutional performance," he said.
Arlie Peters, Dean of NYUAD, emphasized the partnership's importance, highlighting the university's commitment to supporting the UAE's national priorities through education and research. "By working closely with national initiatives such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Government Scholarships, we contribute to preparing a new generation of leaders capable of advancing the nation's sustainable development journey and enhancing its presence on the global stage," Peters said.
Andrei Baransky, Associate Professor of Economics at NYUAD and Director of the Master's Programme, noted the cohort's selection based on their solid academic capabilities and experience in shaping economic dialogues and addressing professional challenges in the UAE. He mentioned that the programme offers a rich and interactive academic experience, based on scientific methodology and systematic economic theory, providing students with analytical tools necessary for practical application.
The 'Master of Science in Economics' programme combines theoretical training with advanced analytical and quantitative methods, enabling students to analyze complex data, evaluate economic policies, and develop practical solutions to current social and economic challenges. The programme extends over two academic years on a part-time basis and includes a graduation project under academic supervision, international academic modules, and a range of scientific activities that enrich the students' experience.
Participants are selected based on their academic qualifications, professional experience, and leadership potential, ensuring the formation of an elite group of national talents capable of supporting government work and policy-making. The 'Mohammed bin Rashid Government Scholarships' include advanced academic programmes aimed at empowering national talents in government entities through specialized tracks directly linked to government work priorities.
These programmes are implemented in cooperation with leading global universities, including Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, NYUAD, and Georgetown University. The programmes focus on developing advanced analytical and applied skills, enabling government cadres to translate academic knowledge into more efficient and proactive decisions and policies, thereby enhancing the government's readiness to meet future requirements.