The Department of Economic Development (DED) recently organised an introductory workshop on the Dubai Human Development Award (DHDA) 2008, for potential applicants.

The workshop was intended to help 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, 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.

“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 award covers eight economic sectors: trading, construction, professional, services, tourism, finance, manufacturing and semi-government.-TradeArabia News Service