The Smart Dubai Office has developed
a blockchain-powered decentralised learning platform, in collaboration with the
Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), to support
the development of digital skills and prepare individuals for careers in the
economy of the future.
The Smart Dubai Office is developing the platform with the
support of ConsenSys, which develops
decentralised software services and applications that operate on the Ethereum
blockchain.
The Smart City University will enable individuals not only
to build their own educational paths, but also benefit from and get
certification for skills acquired through non-traditional learning channels
such as work projects, reading materials, conferences, workshops and online
courses.
The University will also allow users to choose from a wide
range of digital certifications that will enable them to combine learning
programmes in different sectors and technologies such as artificial
intelligence (AI) in transportation and internet of things (IoT) technologies
in the energy field. It will also enable them to benefit from the expertise of
leading international trainers and experts.
The Smart City University was one among a host of
initiatives launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council and
Chairman of DFF’s Board of Trustees in February 2018 under the Dubai 10X initiative.
Overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), the Dubai 10X
Initiative seeks to place Dubai Government entities 10 years ahead of the rest
of the world in all sectors, by implementing today what other cities around the
world might be implementing 10 years from now. Government bodies across sectors
are contributing to the effort by implementing projects in collaboration with
innovative tech companies.
His Highness announced 26 projects from 24
government departments that aim to advance Dubai 10X’s objective of placing
Dubai Government entities 10 years ahead of the rest of the world. The projects
were selected
by a panel of experts after evaluating more than 160 ideas submitted by 36
organisations in less than 365 days.
HE Dr. Aisha bint Butti bin Bishr, Director General of Smart
Dubai Office stated, “As we prepare to implement the UAE
Centennial Plan 2071 and usher in the fourth industrial revolution, there
is a need to develop the digital skills of the workforce. Through the Smart
City University, we are committed to providing the community with the right
tools to acquire and develop digital skills.”
"We aim to bridge the digital skills gap by increasing
the percentage of digitally skilled talent in the UAE to 10% by 2020. We also
seek to support the global effort to enhance digital skills and strengthen
Dubai’s international position in the digital field,” Her Excellency added.
