The memorandum of understanding was signed by Counsellor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, and Dhafer Rashid Al Qasimi, Chief Executive Officer of Silal. The agreement was formalised on the sidelines of Global Food Week 2026 held at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi which runs from October 6 to 8. According to the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department the programme equips participants with professional skills that advance restorative justice objectives and transform incarceration into a period of empowerment and development.
The 12-month initiative follows the Farmer Field Schools model to deliver hands-on training in sustainable agriculture and advanced technologies. Inmates will cover the full crop cultivation cycle from seedling preparation and land setup to harvesting while acquiring entrepreneurship competencies. Training sessions occur twice weekly under direct supervision by Silal experts as outlined in the partnership details.
Participants who complete the course will receive accredited certificates to improve their employment opportunities upon release. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department stated that the curriculum supports effective economic and social integration after sentences conclude. Silal contributes its position as Abu Dhabi’s leading agri-food and technology company to deliver the specialised content.
Gulf News reported that the programme aligns with broader efforts to strengthen food security and community rehabilitation across the emirate. Silal has pursued comparable youth training through initiatives such as the Mustadeem programme developed with government and research partners to build knowledge in agriculture and sustainability. A TradeArabia assessment of that project noted its emphasis on practical experiences that prepare participants for professional roles in related fields.
The collaboration extends Silal’s involvement in multiple agricultural innovation partnerships that include research centres and energy departments to promote resource efficiency. According to earlier company announcements these activities advance the UAE’s national food security strategy by fostering skills and sustainable practices. The inmate training adds a social dimension to such work by linking agri-tech expertise with correctional rehabilitation objectives.
