Dubai: Al Wasl University, in collaboration with the Centre of Excellence for Applied Research and Training (CERT), celebrated the graduation of the 14th cohort of the Work Readiness Program (WRP), designed to prepare Emirati women for the workforce. The event, held under the patronage of Juma Al Majid, was graced by the presence of Saeed bin Mohammed Al Raqbani, Special Advisor to H.H. the Ruler of Fujairah.
According to Emirates News Agency, the ceremony began with the UAE National Anthem, followed by a presentation showcasing the success stories of graduates who have entered the workforce post-programme. Graduates also presented projects that demonstrated the practical skills they acquired during their studies. Saeed bin Mohammed Al Raqbani congratulated the graduates and commended Juma Al Majid for his support of the programme in partnership with CERT, highlighting the initiative's role in empowering Emirati women.
Prof. Dr Mohamed Ahmed Abdel Rahman, Chancellor of Al Wasl University, remarked that the programme underscores the university's dedication to fostering Emirati female talent through an educational and training system that meets future labour market needs. Since its inception in 2013, the partnership with CERT has been instrumental in preparing Emirati women for professional opportunities in various sectors.
Khalid AlHammadi, General Manager of CERT, praised the partnership with Al Wasl University as a successful example of institutional cooperation. He emphasized that the programme's outcomes reflect the success of efforts to enhance graduates' employment prospects, aligning with the UAE's vision of investing in human capital and building a knowledge-based economy.
The graduates expressed their gratitude to Juma Al Majid for his unwavering support and confidence in the capabilities of Emirati women. In conjunction with the Year of the Family, the ceremony also recognized the families of outstanding graduates for their support in their daughters' academic and professional journeys.
Since 2013, the Work Readiness Program has graduated 2,060 students from its Dubai and Fujairah branches, with an employment rate exceeding 43 percent. Currently, 155 students are enrolled in the programme. The ceremony concluded with the awarding of graduation certificates, celebrating both the achievements of the graduates and the programme's contribution to developing future Emirati female leaders.