With the youth constituting 50 percent of the population in the UAE, the government is determined to engage and give the young generation more say in the decision-making process and parliamentary experiment of the country .

''The UAE's leadership pays special attention to the youth and empowers them to contribute towards nation building. The Emirati youth have become a global role model for taking leadership positions and assuming national responsibilities, according to a statement issued by the Federal National Council (FNC) on the occasion of the International Youth Day 2017, which is being observed on August 12 under the theme 'Youth Building Peace'.

"The youth are the most valuable asset, who will drive the national development with their mind and energy," the statement said.

The state's strategy, the statement affirmed, was focussed on giving the younger generation more job opportunities, equipping them with science and knowledge, and encouraging them to be creative and innovative, so as to build the nation's future.

The statement noted that the government had created a ministry for youth, led by a young woman, and the Emirates Youth Council to empower them to contribute to the development of the national strategies and plans.

"The youth will also take centre stage in the FNC 2016-2021 strategy," the statement said in conclusion.

Source: Wam