


The Kafaat Programme: A Game-Changing Initiative Elevating Emirati Skills and Workforce Development
Galadari Brothers, a leading UAE-based conglomerate, has been awarded the prestigious ET HCA MENA Award 2024 for “Excellence in Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning and Upskilling” for their groundbreaking Kafaat programme. This award highlights the significant strides made by the company in advancing the skills and competencies of Emirati employees across various sectors, underscoring its commitment to fostering a dynamic and skilled workforce.
The Kafaat programme is a strategic initiative designed to accelerate the professional development of Emiratis, offering a comprehensive framework for acquiring technical expertise and leadership skills in a relatively short time frame. “Kafaat goes beyond traditional training. It is a transformative initiative that not only equips our professionals with technical expertise but also emphasizes the key role of behavioural impact in the HR domain,” said Ahlam AlMarzooqi, Group Emiratisation Manager at Galadari Brothers.
Launched by Galadari Brothers, the Kafaat programme is specifically tailored to meet the evolving needs of Emirati employees, focusing on holistic professional development. The programme’s innovative structure equips participants with essential HR skills while fostering the personal and business competencies required to thrive in today’s complex work environment.
“The quality and standards of our training are outstanding,” AlMarzooqi shared. “Being recognized for our efforts makes our work feel truly meaningful. It confirms that we’re on the right track and that others see the value in what we’re doing.”
Kafaat’s success lies in its ability to fast-track development, helping participants avoid common career pitfalls by providing the insights and guidance that typically take years to acquire. “It feels amazing. I’ve put in a lot of hard work, and so has the team to make this programme a reality,” AlMarzooqi added, reflecting on the recognition of their efforts.
The programme represents more than just technical training; it stands as a symbol of empowerment and leadership for Emirati employees. Mohammed Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers, expressed his pride in the initiative’s broader impact. “Kafaat is more than just an HR initiative; it represents empowerment, growth, and leadership tailored for our Emirati employees.”
The programme’s focus on both technical and personal growth positions it as a vital tool in developing future leaders. It equips Emiratis with the necessary skills to not only contribute to the company’s success but also to take on leadership roles within their sectors.
Building on its success, Galadari Brothers has ambitious plans to expand the Kafaat programme beyond the realm of HR. “We’re looking at applying Kafaat to areas like finance and marketing. What’s great about the programme is its flexibility; we can tailor it to meet the specific needs of different departments and levels of seniority,” AlMarzooqi revealed.
The company is also exploring collaborations with government entities and other businesses to share best practices and insights, particularly in the highly competitive landscape of Emirati recruitment. Additionally, the Kafaat programme is poised to extend its reach beyond the UAE, with plans to expand into Saudi Arabia, further reinforcing the company’s commitment to developing a skilled and empowered workforce.
The recognition of the Kafaat programme with the ET HCA MENA Award 2024 marks a significant achievement for Galadari Brothers and sets a benchmark for workforce development in the region. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and upskilling, the company is not only advancing the skills of Emiratis but also setting the stage for sustainable growth and leadership in the workforce.
With a clear vision for the future and a commitment to expanding the programme’s impact, Galadari Brothers is leading the way in nurturing talent and building a stronger, more skilled Emirati workforce, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
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