SDD launches Data & AI Training for government employees

September 01, 2025 / 5:48 PM

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Digital Department (SDD), in collaboration with PwC Academy Middle East, has launched the Data & AI Competency Development Programme. This initiative targets government employees across Sharjah and aims to strengthen capabilities, enhance competencies, and improve data management systems in line with global best practices and Sharjah’s sustainable digital transformation vision.

Programme objectives and timeline

Running from September to November 2025, the programme focuses on core areas such as data management, governance, and artificial intelligence applications. Workshops will offer practical training in data visualisation, data processing and analysis, and foundational programming languages for databases.

Addressing current challenges in public sector data

Designed with Sharjah's government needs in mind, the programme delivers modules on data governance, emphasizing its crucial role in evidence-based decision-making and sustainable transformation. It also includes hands-on training in advanced digital tools and programming techniques.

Inaugural session and strategic goals

The programme commenced with an opening session attended by His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of SDD; His Excellency Eng. Lamia Al Hussan Al Shamsi, Director of SDD; Muzoun Balhaif Alnuaimi, Head of the Data Management Department at SDD; and representatives from PwC Academy ME and participating government entities.

Statements from SDD leadership

In her opening remarks, Muzoun Alnuaimi described the programme as a milestone in strengthening digital leadership and AI-driven data capabilities within the public sector.

“This programme provides a specialised platform that transforms data users into professionals capable of applying data in decision-making,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of intergovernmental collaboration in building a smart digital ecosystem, promoting a data culture, and enhancing institutional performance.

PwC’s role and broader vision

Taimur Ali Mir, Partner at PwC and Head of Professional Qualifications at PwC Academy ME, praised Sharjah’s forward-thinking strategy: “This programme is not just training—it’s part of a broader plan for talent development and a data-driven future.”

He emphasised that the initiative supports a phased learning approach, enabling participants to progressively acquire practical skills aligned with digital innovation goals.

Part of a larger digital transformation roadmap

This programme is one of several initiatives under SDD’s broader strategy to build a sustainable digital ecosystem that places people at the center of development. By equipping government talent with data and AI competencies, Sharjah aims to lead in digital excellence, governance, and public service innovation.