National Defence College Welcomes His Excellency Minister of State for Youth Affairs

Wednesday 14 May 2025

As part of its awareness and strategic programs, the National Defense College hosted His Excellency Dr. Sultan Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, on Wednesday, May 14th  2025, to deliver a lecture titled “The UAE Astronaut Program and the Development of the National Space Sector” in the presence of participants from the 12th National Defense Course (2024–2025). He was received by Brigadier General/ Saeed Hassan Al Yammahi, Commandant of the National Defence College, Deputy Commandant and the wing commanders.

During the lecture, His Excellency Dr. Al Neyadi highlighted the key stages in the development of the space sector in the UAE, showcasing the country’s pioneering achievements that have positioned it among the world’s leading nations in this field, starting from the launch of the first Emirati astronaut to the International Space Station, to the latest ambitious space projects.

His Excellency emphasized the importance of investing in young cadres and promoting scientific and technical research, which contributes to empowering a new generation of innovators capable of advancing development and innovation and achieving the wise leadership's aspirations for foreseeing the future.

The meeting witnessed significant interaction from the attendees, with a dedicated open discussion session during which His Excellency answered the participants' questions and inquiries. These questions reflected their deep interest in the space sector and its role in enhancing the strategic position of the UAE.