DED organises introductory workshop on Dubai Human Development Award 2008

The workshop was intended to facilitate the application process by helping companies in preparing the submission content.

The DED initiative is also part of promoting the cause of national human resources development and ensuring that nationals are provided with an adequate climate of growth and development within organisations.

Dr Kanak Madrecha, senior manager - Quality, Business Excellence Centre in Dubai World, who led the workshop, presented an overview of the criteria for evaluation developed by the advisory body, the application process and other aspects pertaining to the award.

More than 20 representatives from major private sector companies participated in the workshop, which was held at the DED premises in Deira. The workshop was followed by an active debate where all questions relating to the award were discussed.

"The Dubai Human Development Award assumes great significance in view of the growing number of young UAE nationals joining the workforce and the increasing challenges to Emiratisation," said Khalid Al Kassim, Deputy Director General for Planning and Development at DED and DHDA Co-ordinator General.

"The award promotes close co-operation between the government and private sector and encourages companies and establishments operating in Dubai to evaluate and reiterate their commitment to national human resources development," Al Kassim added.

The DHDA is open to Dubai-based establishments that invest in national human resources and facilitate their growth and development within their organisation.

The last date for submission of applications for the award is November 16, 2008.

The award covers eight economic sectors: trading, construction, professional, services, tourism, finance, manufacturing and semi-government.

Applications will be evaluated by a team of experts, who will conduct site visits and prepare detailed assessment reports highlighting the existing best practices and the areas for improvement in each company.

The examiners evaluate applications on the basis of four criteria - commitment (20%), process (45%), results (29%) and contribution to society (6%).