The Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi (SCAD), through its Statistical Training Institute, has graduated 22 Emirati students aged 16-19 from the sixth cohort of the Abu Dhabi Young Fellows of Statistics Programme.
Held from 13-30 July 2026, the programme equipped participants with practical skills in statistics, data science and artificial intelligence, strengthening the next generation of national talent ready to contribute to Abu Dhabi's knowledge-driven economy.
The programme combined classroom learning with practical application across the full data lifecycle, including survey design, data collection, analysis, visualisation and storytelling. Participants also explored AI agents, prompt engineering, cybersecurity, digital rights and responsible data practices before applying their knowledge through collaborative projects, an innovation sprint and presentations to SCAD leadership.
His Excellency Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi, Director General of SCAD, said: "Every generation shapes the future with the tools of its time. For this generation, data and artificial intelligence are among the most powerful tools they will possess. Our responsibility is not simply to teach young people how to use them, but to inspire them to ask better questions, think critically, act responsibly and use evidence to solve challenges that matter to society. Investing in young Emirati talent today is an investment in a smarter, more resilient and more prosperous Abu Dhabi tomorrow."
The programme also strengthened participants' communication, critical thinking, leadership and career-readiness skills, and included a visit to Khalifa University to explore future academic and career opportunities in statistics, data science and artificial intelligence.
Participants completed the programme by presenting their final projects to SCAD leadership, demonstrating their ability to apply statistical thinking, emerging technologies and data-driven approaches to real-world challenges.
Launched in 2021, the Abu Dhabi Young Fellows of Statistics Programme has grown from eight participants in its inaugural cohort to 22 in 2026, reflecting increasing interest among Emirati youth in statistics, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
The programme forms part of SCAD's long-term commitment to developing future-ready national talent capable of transforming trusted data into meaningful insights, supporting informed decision-making and contributing to Abu Dhabi's continued development as a global leader in the data and AI era.
