Abu Dhabi campaigns for young Emiratis to pursue medical careers

ABU DHABI // A social media campaign was launched in the capital to encourage young Emiratis to pursue careers in medicine and the healthcare sector.

The Health Authority Abu Dhabi (Haad) said it was targeting those between the ages of 16 and 18.

The authority wants to highlight opportunities and success stories of Emirati talent in the healthcare sector.

There are 2,289 Emiratis working in the UAE healthcare sector, of which 49 per cent are doctors and 14 per cent are nurses. Nine per cent work in dentistry, 4 per cent in pharmaceuticals and the remaining 24 per cent provide support.

Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, chairman of Haad, said the authority is making efforts to attract and train people in the medical field.

“This should help meet the growing demand for healthcare services and ensure a healthy and constant supply of specialised Emirati talent actively involved in the development of a sustainable healthcare sector,” he said.

Sheikha Al Dhaheri, director of the health sector’s national workforce planning at Haad, said the campaign is aimed at encouraging young Emiratis “who show great promise” to help strengthen the sector and pursue medical careers.

Haad is cooperating with various partners, including Abu Dhabi Education Council, The Higher Colleges of Technology, Sheikha Fatima College for Health Sciences, UAE University and healthcare providers across the emirate.

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