Sharjah: The Sharjah Department of Human Resources (SDHR), in collaboration with the Sharjah Prevention and Safety Authority (SPSA), has initiated a training project aimed at implementing business continuity within the region. Representatives from various Sharjah government entities, institutions, and departments have taken part in this significant project.
According to Emirates News Agency, this initiative is part of SDHR's ongoing efforts to bolster the resilience of government institutions and ensure sustainability in providing essential services. The project is designed to equip national professionals with the skills to lead and execute continuity plans across different entities, as part of a comprehensive strategy extending until 2027.
The project, known as the "Business Continuity Programmes," seeks to enhance the readiness of government entities in the Emirate to effectively handle crises and emergencies, thus mitigating their potential impact on crucial operations. It focuses on developing institutional capabilities to swiftly and efficiently restore vital activities and educating employees on the significance of continuity and the methods for managing crises and unexpected challenges.
The programme is structured into three integrated development phases. The initial phase involves preparation and awareness, offering extensive concepts about business continuity management, its scientific foundations, and its role in reinforcing service sustainability. The second phase emphasizes practice and evaluation with the implementation of simulation plans and applications, alongside internal audits to assess readiness and address any deficiencies. The final phase is about empowerment and accreditation, preparing participants as certified practitioners and ambassadors within their organizations to activate continuity systems per internationally recognized standards.
The training covers a range of topics, including business continuity management concepts, operations management during crises, and the fundamentals of internal auditing and review. Conducted over three months, the programme commenced in May and will conclude in July 2025, representing a strategic move towards building certified national competencies in business continuity.
Upon meeting the programme's requirements, participants receive official licenses authorizing them to practice business continuity within their organizations. These licenses are issued by an accredited body affiliated with the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), in coordination with the Business Continuity Committee in the Emirate of Sharjah and subcommittees within government departments. This approach not only enhances the programme's credibility but also provides graduates with professional accreditation, enabling them to play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of institutional preparedness and effective crisis management.