Standard Chartered backs Mawarid nationals training programme

The Mawarid agreement has been signed between His Excellency Ahmad Humaid Al Tayer, EIBFS Chairman and Ray Ferguson, Chief Executive, Standard Chartered Bank UAE.

"This agreement is in line with our desire to support the principles recently outlined in the Emirates National Development Programme initiative launched by His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister," explained Ferguson.

The Mawarid Induction Programme is tailor-made to cover the fundamental principles of banking operations while also addressing current trends and new developments in the banking sector.

"The overall aim of the training programmes is to provide UAE nationals with acceptable levels of knowledge and practice in banking operations," explained HE Al Tayer. "The programme will be customised according to the pace and needs of the trainees as well as Standard Chartered's requirements, products and policies."

EIBFS will deliver the six-phase training over 10 weeks covering topics such as English for Banking, basic banking operations and computer applications.

The commitment to Mawarid, which in English means 'resources,' is the latest in a series of moves by Standard Chartered Bank to deliver training and employment opportunities to UAE nationals.

"As with previous EIBFS programmes, Mawarid will assist in delivering a steady talent stream of young nationals to the bank. We will train 150 students over the next 6 months" said Ferguson.

"After training, candidates will have the chance of working with Standard Chartered or other banks. Though they may opt for our competition, we take a much more philosophical stance and consider their training as Standard Chartered's contribution to raising the level of banking competencies throughout the Emirates."

Standard Chartered, which has development a long-term Emiratisation strategy, is continuously interviewing for a number of roles within than bank and across all levels, from senior experienced bankers to young starters with high potential.

"Emiratisation makes good business sense and it is important to emphasise that while Standard Chartered is making great progress in the recruitment of UAE nationals, it is only the first step. Once recruited, we place great emphasis on welcoming and integrating our new Emirati employees," explained Ferguson.

In conjunction with Tanmia, the National Human Resource Development and Employment Authority, Standard Chartered has developed a Banking Essentials induction programme which give new employees the knowledge necessary to fit into their new banking roles.

"In addition, Standard Chartered is in discussions with a number of universities and colleges to identify ways of working together in order to present future candidates with a full range of opportunities," explained Ferguson. "Our long term aim is to ensure that we are clearly positioned in the minds of talented Emiratis as the employer of choice within the UAE banking sector."