Agthia Academy Completes First International Program Boosting Emirati Food Production Skills
The Agthia Academy has successfully concluded its first international training program, aimed at enhancing the skills of Emirati talents in the food production sector. This initiative was implemented in collaboration with Bühler Group, a renowned Swiss technology company specializing in food production, animal feed, and mobility solutions. The closing ceremony saw the presence of prominent figures, including S.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE's Minister of Economy and Tourism, alongside strategic partners involved in the project.
Participants in the program had the unique opportunity to undergo extensive training in various areas, including milling, baking, and overall food production. The training was conducted in both Abu Dhabi and Switzerland, blending theoretical classroom learning with hands-on experiences at Agthia's facilities, as well as training centers run by Bühler.
The Agthia Academy has the backing of strategic partners such as the Department of Economic Development (DED), Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA). The initiative also gained academic approval from both Zayed University and the UAE University. By bringing together government, regulatory bodies, academia, and industry, the project aims to bolster the UAE's food and beverage sector through skill development and knowledge sharing.
Salmeen Alameri, the CEO of Agthia Group, emphasized the crucial role of human resources and knowledge in the resilience of the food sector. He noted, "Through the Agthia Academy, we are committed to developing the necessary skills to advance the UAE's food ecosystem and connect Emirati talents with world-class experts. This program turns our commitment into tangible actions, contributing to the skill and expertise growth that will empower the UAE's long-term food security ambitions."
Heiko Feuring, President of Bühler for the Middle East, Africa, and India, added that as food manufacturing becomes increasingly sophisticated, it demands strong technical expertise. The partnership between Agthia and Bühler merges Agthia's local market leadership with Bühler's global expertise in food processing. The Agthia Academy translates these strengths into practical training that immerses participants in the technologies, processes, and knowledge necessary for modern food production.
The Agthia Academy is a unique skill enhancement platform designed to equip Emirati entrepreneurs and food science students with expertise in food manufacturing processes such as milling, baking, and production excellence. The program combined classroom learning, practical technical training at Agthia’s Abu Dhabi facilities, and international exposure at Bühler’s training centers in Switzerland, thereby providing participants with a comprehensive, hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of global food transformation and manufacturing practices.
About Agthia: Agthia Group PJSC is a leading food and beverage company based in Abu Dhabi. With a diverse portfolio of over 20 trusted brands in the domains of water, food, snacks, proteins, and frozen products, the group operates in seven countries and serves consumers in over 60 markets globally. With a workforce of more than 13,000 individuals, Agthia combines scale, operational capabilities, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability to create long-term value throughout the food and beverage value chain.