Galadari Brothers, a UAE-based conglomerate, has recently been honored with the esteemed ET HCA MENA Award 2024 for their groundbreaking Kafaat programme, which was recognized for 'Excellence in Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning and Upskilling.' This accolade underscores the program's remarkable success in enhancing the skills and capabilities of Emirati employees across the company's various sectors.

“Kafaat transcends conventional training methods. It is a revolutionary initiative that not only provides our professionals with technical proficiency but also underscores the pivotal role of behavioral impact within the HR (human resources) sphere,” explained Ahlam AlMarzooqi, the group's Emiratisation manager. She further added, “The caliber and standards of our training are exceptional. Receiving this recognition makes our efforts feel profoundly significant. It validates that we are on the correct path and that others appreciate the value we are creating.”

AlMarzooqi expressed her deep pride in the acknowledgment, stating, “It feels incredible. I have invested a significant amount of effort, as has the team, to bring this program to fruition. To be honest, I never had the opportunity to participate in such a program before.”

Tailored for Emiratis, the Kafaat programme was launched by Galadari Brothers to address the evolving needs of human resources. It encompasses a broad spectrum of skills essential for thriving in today's intricate work environments. AlMarzooqi emphasized that completing the program equips participants with knowledge that typically takes years to accumulate.

The initiative is designed to bolster participants' technical HR skills while simultaneously fostering critical personal and business competencies that drive growth and innovation. AlMarzooqi noted that the program aids participants in accelerating their development by offering insights and guidance to sidestep common obstacles.

Mohammed Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO, highlighted the program's broader implications, stating: “Kafaat is more than just an HR initiative; it symbolizes empowerment, growth, and leadership specifically tailored for our Emirati employees.”

Looking to the future, Ahlam AlMarzooqi revealed ambitious plans to extend the Kafaat programme beyond HR. “We are considering applying Kafaat to areas such as finance and marketing. The beauty of the program lies in its adaptability; we can customize it to suit the unique needs of different departments and seniority levels,” she elaborated.

She also mentioned, “In the future, we might collaborate with government entities and other companies to exchange insights and best practices, particularly in the competitive arena of Emirati recruitment.” The Kafaat programme is poised to expand within the UAE and is set to extend into Saudi Arabia, reinforcing their dedication to cultivating a skilled workforce.