*** Youth Minister Urges Investment in Digital Skills at Youth City 2030 | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Youth Minister Urges Investment in Digital Skills at Youth City 2030

Youth Affairs Minister Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfeeqi has stressed the importance of investing in young people's capabilities and developing their digital skills, saying artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most powerful tools enabling youth to create innovative solutions and unlock new opportunities.

Speaking during the "Hadith" (Dialogue) session at Youth City 2030, titled "Inspiring Youth Experiences in Artificial Intelligence", the minister said keeping pace with rapid technological change is essential to preparing young people for the future and strengthening their role in building a knowledge- and innovation-based economy.

The session featured Mohannad Suleiman, Communications and International Relations Advisor and Head of the Artificial Intelligence Team at the Ministry of Information, who joined discussions on youth experiences in AI, the opportunities offered by emerging technologies, and ways to develop the skills and knowledge needed to use AI in creating solutions, launching projects, and exploring future opportunities.

Tawfeeqi praised Bahraini youth for their innovative ideas and achievements in the field of artificial intelligence, noting that equipping young people with modern technological tools enhances creative thinking and enables them to transform knowledge into practical applications and impactful projects. She added that these skills also improve their competitiveness in the labour market.

The minister said hosting the "Hadith" session at Youth City 2030 reflects the city's role in providing an integrated environment that combines dialogue, learning and practical experience. She highlighted the city's diverse training programmes, including specialised courses in AI and advanced technologies, which allow participants to explore the latest digital applications, strengthen their skills and develop ideas and solutions aligned with future needs.

During the session, young participants shared their AI-related experiences and initiatives, showcasing projects and applications they have developed while discussing how modern technologies have supported learning, experimentation and innovation. Participants also exchanged views on the future of artificial intelligence and its potential to drive new solutions and create emerging opportunities.