du launches "Masar" programme for young UAE national graduates

'Masar' is structured to ensure jobs for nationals with varying educational backgrounds, from high school to post graduate degrees.

Initial selection will be based on a rigorous assessment round that will identify each candidate's skill sets, areas of strength and potential to perform. Following a stringent evaluation process that includes interviews and discussions with du line managers, the graduate trainee will be positioned in a target department.

Fahad Al Hassawi, Executive Vice President, Human Resources, du, said: "'Masar' is an integral part of du's commitment as a local company to invest in UAE nationals and contribute to the growth of the country. From the start, the provision of creating quality opportunities for qualified young UAE nationals has been a vital element of du's strategy, in line with the vision of UAE's leadership and the ongoing nationalization drive."

The programme is appropriately titled 'Masar', meaning 'path' in Arabic. As the name suggests, Masar will provide UAE nationals with the paths to grow professionally.

Al Hassawi added: "Through intensive training modules, the interns will be empowered with industry specific skills that will allow them to compete proficiently with a global workforce."

Ali Mohamed Alawadi, National Recruitment and Development Manager, du said: "We are very proud to be part of a major initiative that translates the vision of our top management to 'create careers and not just jobs'.

"In our efforts to promote du as the Employer of Choice, we are confident of attracting top class UAE nationals through Masar, du's graduate trainee programme".

Masar will comprise a 12-18 month training programme in two phases. During the initial 3-6 month period, the trainee will acquire hands-on, working knowledge of relevant departments in du.

The remaining training period will see graduate trainees working closely with the team in the target department to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the division before assuming functional responsibility. Periodic assessments, every 45 days, will be conducted to ensure that the progress of the interns.