SSSD launches "Promising Leaders" programme

The programme's launch reflects the department's commitment to investing in human capital and strengthening the capabilities of its employees, aligning with the Sharjah government's vision of cultivating a generation of qualified leaders capable of driving development and innovation within the institutional framework and establishing a culture of excellence and leadership in the government work environment.

SSSD is organising a series of introductory meetings for employees to explain the programme's objectives, themes, and implementation mechanisms, as well as to clarify the nomination and selection process and participation requirements. The department called upon its various divisions to nominate qualified employees to participate in the program, as part of its commitment to investing in national talent and developing future leaders capable of assuming future responsibilities.

Programme requirements

The department explained that the nomination process is governed by a set of regulations and criteria, most notably that the nominee be a UAE national, no older than 35 years of age, have at least two years of service within the department, hold a university degree (at least a bachelor's degree), possess leadership qualities, and not currently hold any leadership position.

The department emphasised the importance of nominees demonstrating initiative, the ability to develop, and a sense of responsibility, along with a positive work record reflecting commitment and excellence in performance, thus enhancing their chances of benefiting from the program and achieving its developmental objectives.

SSSD also clarified that the number of participants in the programme this year will reach 20 nominees, selected from among the department's employees according to the approved criteria.

The department reiterated the importance of nominees possessing initiative, the ability to develop, and a sense of responsibility, along with a positive work record reflecting commitment and excellence in performance, thus enhancing their chances of benefiting from the program and achieving its developmental objectives. Investing in Human Capital within the Department

Investing in human capital

Fatima Musa Al Balushi, Director of the Experts and Consultants Office, affirmed that the programme represents one of the development initiatives aimed at investing in human capital within the department. She noted that the program seeks to prepare future leaders and empower distinguished employees with leadership tools and strategic thinking, thus contributing to supporting the institutional development process and achieving sustainability in government performance.

Al Balushi explained that the programme includes a range of specialised training programmes and mentoring sessions, in addition to the implementation of practical applied projects designed to refine participants' skills and develop their leadership capabilities.

Global best practices in developing institutional leaders

The programme's training methodology is based on a global leadership learning model that emphasises learning through practical experiences, leadership interaction, and specialized training. This approach enhances participants' efficiency and develops their leadership skills in the workplace. Seventy percent of the programme's content focuses on learning through practical experiences and applied projects within the work environment, while 20% is dedicated to interactive learning through leadership mentoring and guidance sessions and knowledge sharing. Theoretical training courses and workshops constitute approximately 10% of the development path. The programme also draws upon several global best practices in developing institutional leaders.

It is worth noting that the Sharjah Social Services Department employs approximately 1,224 staff members across various job levels throughout the emirate. It provides its services through eight branches located in Al Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Khorfakkan, Kalba, Mleiha, Dibba Al Hisn, Al Madam, and Al Bataeh, in addition to five care and protection homes and several specialised service centres.