TDT | Manama

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I have been watching with pride and admiration the confidence, creativity, and depth of knowledge that Bahraini students displayed at GITEX through their innovative projects. It is truly heartening to see such young talent representing our nation on one of the world's leading technology stages. Initiatives that take Bahraini students to these international platforms are invaluable -- they allow our youth to witness global achievements, exchange ideas, and broaden their horizons.

Too often, when we talk about new technology, the conversation quickly turns to its supposed ill effects on the younger generation. What we often fail to recognise is that our youth were born into a digital world -- one that is already driven by technology -- and there is no turning back. Expecting them to disengage from it would be like asking us to give up our cars and return to horse-drawn buggies. Technology is not a choice for them; it is the environment they live in and the language they speak.

Today's Millennials and Gen Z are not just passive users of technology -- they are its architects, innovators, and visionaries. Their understanding of information and communication technology (ICT) far surpasses that of previous generations, and that is precisely what positions them to lead the future.

As Bahrain continues to build a robust knowledge-based economy, let us invest in sharpening the skills of this techno-generation. By nurturing their creativity and empowering them with opportunity.

(Captain Mahmood Al Mahmood is the Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Tribune and the President of the Arab-African Unity Organisation for Relief, Human Rights and Counterterrorism)