ABU DHABI // The National Defence College has been officially opened by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Sheikh Mohammed hoisted the flag in the college parade ground and unveiled a plaque declaring the opening of the college on Wednesday, the state news agency Wam reported.
“It’s our great pleasure and pride to open today this ambitious institute, coinciding with our celebrations of the 42nd glorious National Day,” he said.
“We believe in the message of our educational and academic institutions, and in their vital role in promoting thought and keeping pace with rapid changes to address challenges and explore future approaches.”
The college, under the general command of the Armed Forces, aims to train the next generation of Emirati leaders.
It will help to prepare military and civil leaders to assess the challenges of national, regional and international security.
It will also train future heads of state security, police and other forces, diplomatic and consular leaders and senior public officials who may be involved in crisis management.
Also attending the opening were Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed, National Security Adviser, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, and members of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
Lt Gen Hamad Al Rumaithi, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, and a group of Armed Forces commanders, diplomats and VIP guests were also present.
The first batch of 30 students joined the college in August.
jbell@thenational.ae
