e& has announced a partnership with Ericsson for a new Emirati talent program.

The Excelerate& program, a collaboration between e& and Ericsson, represents a significant initiative aimed at advancing Emiratisation and developing local talent in the UAE's technology sector. This program focuses on imparting essential knowledge in trending technologies such as 5G, data science, and cloud computing. Led by expert instructors, Excelerate& aims to transform trainees into subject matter experts capable of developing innovative solutions within their respective fields.

Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer at e&, underscores the company's commitment to Emiratisation and nurturing future Emirati tech leaders. The partnership with Ericsson is viewed as a pivotal step towards empowering bright Emirati minds, equipping them with the skills needed to spearhead the UAE's digital future. The program is designed not only to provide comprehensive training but also to facilitate a seamless integration into e&'s innovative culture and the broader tech industry.

Ekow Nelson, Vice President of Ericsson MEA and Head of Global Customer Unit e&, emphasizes Ericsson's long-standing presence and commitment to the UAE's technological advancement. The Excelerate& Program is seen as a continuation of Ericsson's collaboration with e&, aiming to cultivate the next generation of technology leaders. The program equips participants with global best practices and essential skills to excel in a competitive global landscape, thereby contributing to building a sustainable digital future.

Excelerate& builds upon e&'s broader efforts to drive Emiratisation initiatives. The company's partnership with the National Programme for Emiratisation (NAFIS) underscores its dedication to attracting and empowering UAE talents across various sectors. With a strong foundation of 53% Emirati talent in its UAE workforce and over 61% of senior management positions held by Emirati citizens, e& aims to further enhance Emirati presence in the technology sector.

e&'s commitment to fostering a supportive work environment is evident through initiatives like the AI Graduate Programme, CitizenX Programme for skill enhancement, License to Lead, and Group Organisational Leadership Development (GOLD). These programs focus on upskilling and reskilling employees, ensuring they remain future-ready in an evolving industry landscape.

Recognized for its efforts in employer branding and talent development, e& recently achieved top rankings in Brand Finance’s Employer Brand Report 2024. This accolade solidifies e&'s position as a leading employer in the UAE's telecommunications sector, reflecting its dedication to nurturing talent and driving positive change within the organization and beyond.

In essence, initiatives like Excelerate& underscore the pivotal role of e& and Ericsson in advancing local capabilities in advanced technologies while shaping a sustainable digital future for the UAE. These programs go beyond skill development; they empower Emirati talents to lead in the evolving tech landscape and foster innovation that drives economic growth and technological advancement on a global scale.

By focusing on cutting-edge fields such as 5G, data science, and cloud computing, Excelerate& equips Emirati participants with crucial skills aligned with current industry demands. This strategic emphasis not only prepares them for leadership roles but also positions them as key contributors to the UAE's digital transformation journey. Through collaboration with Ericsson, a leader in telecommunications and technology solutions, e& leverages expertise and resources to ensure participants benefit from global best practices and insights.

Moreover, these initiatives are integral to the broader Emiratisation agenda, aiming to increase local talent representation in senior management and leadership positions within the technology sector. With a foundation built on a strong Emirati workforce, e& seeks to further enhance these capabilities through specialized programs like Excelerate&, fostering a sustainable talent pipeline that meets the nation's strategic objectives.

Beyond individual skill development, Excelerate& and similar programs foster a culture of innovation and problem-solving among Emirati talents. By encouraging creativity and leadership in technology, they contribute directly to the UAE's goal of becoming a hub for technological innovation and excellence. This holistic approach not only strengthens the local economy but also enhances the country's global competitiveness in the digital age.

Furthermore, these efforts align with broader national agendas focused on economic diversification and knowledge-based growth. By investing in the development of homegrown talent in critical technological domains, e& and Ericsson support the UAE's vision of transitioning to a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

In conclusion, initiatives like Excelerate& demonstrate e& and Ericsson's commitment to advancing Emirati capabilities in advanced technologies while fostering a sustainable digital future for the UAE. By empowering local talents, promoting innovation, and aligning with national strategic goals, these programs not only strengthen the foundation of the UAE's technological landscape but also position it as a leader in global technological advancements. Through collaborative partnerships and focused investments in talent development, e& and Ericsson contribute significantly to shaping a prosperous and resilient future for the UAE in the digital era.