Sharjah Tatweer Forum, the Sharjah Emirate’s ambitious initiative for building UAE Nationals’ skills, fostering partnerships between private and public sectors and promoting development, celebrated its first anniversary by holding a ceremony at the theatre of the Medical School at the University of Sharjah on Saturday, May 27, 2006.
His Excellency Sheikh Essam Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler’s Office attended the event and accepted the honours, on behalf of His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Sharjah, under whose patronage the event was held. His Excellency Shaikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Economic Development Department addressed the gathering on the topic, “Role of young leaders and the importance of private- public partnerships”.
Expressing his happiness on being present at Tatweer’s first annual celebrations, H.E. Sheikh Essam said: “Tatweer demonstrates the commitment of our Respected Ruler, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, to the development of young leadership and the consolidation of the public and private sectors, that will equip National youth with the skills and perspectives required to serve the UAE in general and Sharjah in particular.”
Lauding Tatweer for its success and contribution to the development of Sharjah, His Excellency Shaikh Tariq pointed out: “The emirate’s Gross National Product during the last financial year has increased to US$ 34 million. By enhancing partnerships between the private and public sectors, Tatweer will contribute to attracting more investments into Sharjah and strengthening its economy. Young leaders have a pivotal role to play in ensuring the progress of our economy, through innovative approaches and a commitment to succeed”.
Speaking at the function, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, Chairman, Sharjah Tatweer Forum said: “We have had a busy year and through various activities, are proud to have facilitated Tatweer’s objectives of developing young talent and facilitating private-public partnerships through various projects. We will further our goals by introducing the ‘Tatweer Leaders Programme’ (TLP) later this year. The initiative aims at developing leadership and management skills among UAE National graduate men and women by exposing them to best practices and creative leadership development techniques.”
During the past year, Tatweer organised many events and workshops such as a media programme highlighting Sharjah’s rich cultural heritage, diversity and history. Workshops were held in partnership with several organisations on the topics, “Micro financing of Small and Medium Enterprises”, “World Trade Organisation and Free Trade Agreement – Opportunities and Challenges from a Local Perspective”, “The Importance of Innovation and Creativity in Business”, and to explain Tatweer’s plans for promoting partnerships between private and public organisations in Sharjah.
The Sharjah Tatweer Forum was formed as per a decree issued by H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah and Member of the UAE Supreme Council. It aims to develop the skills and competencies of National youth in Sharjah, build partnerships between the private and public sectors, encourage entrepreneurship, innovation and excellence in the business and administrative arenas and ensure the sustainable development and overall progress of the Emirate of Sharjah.
