UAE News Agency (WAM), Thursday 3 Jun 2010
Emiratisation Online Forum To Further Address Issues On Emirati Workforce
Abu Dhabi, WAM:
Discussions of issues relating to the motivation and retention of Emiratis in
the private sector have now become an ongoing process with the launch of the
Emiratisation Online Forum by Abu Dhabi University.
Under a platform that allows for sharing of ideas and showcasing successful
approaches, the Emiratisation Online Forum hopes to provide a framework for the
establishment of a whole range of practical solutions and tailor-made
applications to boost Emirati employment, particularly within the private
sector.
"We ensure that we are able to bridge the gap between the private companies and
the Emiratis wishing to work there," said James Graham, General Manager, Aim
Events, the conference and events division of ADU, organizer of the
Emiratisation Forum. "It is not enough that we have identified the issues that
hinder Emiratis from joining the private sector. We also need to come up with
ongoing solutions.
"We believe that an online discussion of issues greatly contributes in the
overall effort of addressing the challenges faced by Emiratisation. Furthermore,
an online platform would also encourage community involvement in constantly
tackling major issues as well as in identifying recommendations and solutions
that would help increase a workforce of UAE nationals in the private sector," he
added.
The Emiratisation Forum series proved to be an excellent networking opportunity
for HR professionals. Redha Ibrahim Ghanim, Senior Regional External Relations
'&' Nationalization Manager, Al Futtaim Carillion (Abu Dhabi) LLC, commented
that, "The forum was an ideal platform for debates and discussion on the topic
of not only the achievements, but also the obstacles faced by employers in
procuring and retaining Emiratis." "The Emiratisation Forum posed as a
networking opportunity, as well as learning experience, where there is much to
be gained from the motivations of successful, experienced speakers. We need to
discuss new ways of attracting UAE nationals," Muna Khalil Khouri, Emiratisation
Officer, Tourism Development '&' Investment Company (TDIC) explained.
Meanwhile, during the panel discussion led by ADU students, several factors why
Emirati women will be encouraged to work in private companies were discussed.
Led by Alanoud Al Madhi, Student Council President at ADU, together with Maitha
Al Mazroui, Shamsa Al Qubaisi and Zainab Al Refaei, the panel answered various
questions on challenges and motivation at workplaces, career opportunities and
social pressures from the forum delegates.
Al Madhi mentioned that working in the private sector is a very challenging and
great environment for learning, career growth and development. "I want a company
that has a good development program and different opportunities for its women
employees. I prefer a job which will enable me to grow and work hard to improve
my capabilities. In addition, in private companies, there is no room to be
laidback because of high competition," she said.
She added that most of the young Emiratis are not aware that the private sector
contributes highly to the UAE economy. "We need to raise more awareness within
the young Emirati men and women about the opportunities that await them in the
private sector. Emirati women in particular are committed to contribute to our
country's economic success and working in the private sector is one of the many
ways to show our patriotism," Al Madhi explained.
WAM/TF