Sharjah Digital Department Launches Second Cohort of Data and AI Mastery Programme

The Sharjah Digital Department (SDD), in collaboration with PwC Academy Middle East, has launched the second cohort of its Data and AI Mastery Programme as part of efforts to advance the Sharjah Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028.

The programme is designed to strengthen the digital capabilities of Government of Sharjah employees and equip them to use data and artificial intelligence (AI) for better decision-making, improved government efficiency and the development of more proactive, human-centred services.

The second cohort includes 40 participants from 25 government entities across Sharjah. The programme will run from late August through November 2026 and combines theoretical learning with practical applications covering data, AI and emerging technologies.

Focus on building government AI capabilities

H.E. Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of SDD, said data and AI are becoming essential tools for governments to understand emerging needs, anticipate challenges and make more informed decisions.

He said Sharjah aims to ensure that technological transformation delivers measurable improvements in government performance, service quality and outcomes for the wider community.

According to Sheikh Saud, investing in government employees is central to achieving these objectives. The programme seeks to provide participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to keep pace with technological developments and apply them within their respective government entities.

From technical knowledge to practical impact

The programme goes beyond technical training by focusing on how employees can translate knowledge into practical applications.

Participants are expected to develop capabilities that can help them make better decisions, create new solutions and generate meaningful impact across government services and the wider community.

“Government readiness for the future begins with empowering its people to shape it,” Sheikh Saud said, highlighting the department's emphasis on developing talent as a foundation for sustainable digital transformation.

The second cohort builds on SDD's continued investment in government capabilities and workforce development. Through the programme, the department aims to strengthen a government ecosystem capable of adopting emerging technologies effectively and responsibly while improving the quality and efficiency of services delivered to the community.