DUBAI, 23rd February, 2023 (WAM) – The Emirati Human Resources Development Council in Dubai (EHRDC) has partnered with the UAE Food and Beverage Business Group to launch the "Ishraq" programme, a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at creating a skilled Emirati workforce in the food and beverage (F&B) sector.
The programme was announced during the Gulfood 2023, the world's largest annual global food and beverage sourcing event, and was attended by senior representatives from 19 top F&B companies who all signed memorandums of understanding confirming their support for the initiative.
The Ishraq programme will provide on-the-job training to over 500 Emiratis each year, enabling them to contribute to and actively participate in various F&B roles, including food production and others.
The programme is designed to bridge the skills gap in the sector and create new career opportunities for Emiratis while ensuring that companies have a sufficient talent pool to recruit from annually to achieve their Emiratisation goals.
The programme includes assessment, coaching, and mentoring, and a curriculum that is integrated with on-the-job training. By providing a comprehensive career development programme, the F&B industry will become an even more attractive career option for Emiratis looking to build a career in this important sector.
Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chair of the EHRDC, said, "We are delighted to partner with the top F&B companies in our country to launch this groundbreaking programme. The F&B sector is a strategic pillar in our nation's economy, and we believe that this initiative will help bridge the skills gap in the industry, while creating new career opportunities for Emiratis."
Saleh Lootah, Chairman of UAE Food and Beverage Business Group, added, "Our partnership with the EHRDC on this initiative is a source of pride for us. We believe that by offering a career pathway and mentoring to Emiratis who want to work in the food sector, we can help create experts in the F&B sector under the guidance of experienced mentors. With its collaborative approach and comprehensive training, the Ishraq programme is a valuable investment in the future of the industry."
The Emirati Human Resources Development Council in Dubai includes representatives from the public and private sector and oversees the implementation of policies, plans, and initiatives aimed at enhancing the employment of Emiratis in the private sector.