ADCMC Activates Fourth Cohort Of Alternative National Service Programme With 118 New Recruits In Abu Dhabi

The Emergencies, Crises, and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC) has initiated the fourth group of the Alternative National Service Programme. This deployment involves 118 new recruits across 11 government bodies in Abu Dhabi. The programme is a joint effort with the UAE Ministry of Defence and aims to ensure business continuity during emergencies by equipping personnel with vital skills.

Brigadier Hamad Khalifa Al Neyadi, Chief of the National Service and Reserve Authority, praised ADCMC's efforts in utilising alternative national service recruits. He emphasised the importance of this initiative in maintaining business continuity and supporting national growth. Al Neyadi noted that it allows institutions to benefit from young UAE nationals' talents to improve organisational processes.

The programme's expansion includes eight more entities, bringing the total to 18 government bodies involved. ADCMC recently welcomed its first group of 20 recruits. This step is part of a broader strategy to establish 30 active agencies across Abu Dhabi by early 2025. The initiative aims to enhance the emirate's readiness for emergencies.

Matar Al Nuaimi, Director-General of ADCMC, stated, "This latest activation aligns seamlessly with Abu Dhabi's vision of ensuring uninterrupted operations and service continuity in the face of potential crises and disasters." He highlighted that over four years, recruitment will gradually increase to meet ambitious targets.

The ADCMC plays a crucial role in implementing alternative service protocols within essential sectors. It identifies eligible entities according to National Service and Reserve Authority standards, assigns recruits to suitable roles, evaluates their performance, and ensures ongoing training participation.

Recruits are assigned strategically to key departments such as Operations Management and Cybersecurity Office. These placements follow specific guidelines for each role and include regular training sessions to evaluate training effectiveness. After six months, a comprehensive assessment tracks progress with each hosting entity.

Training and Development

After completing initial training, recruits must attend an annual two-week refresher course. This continuous development ensures they remain prepared for their roles. The ADCMC also oversees Business Continuity Management systems with other entities, reviewing requests for activating alternative services within local institutions.

The centre develops guidelines for using alternative service recruits according to existing regulations. By integrating these recruits into business continuity plans, entities gain both quantitative and qualitative human resource support, enhancing operational efficiency and emergency response times.

Resilience Forum

On 18th and 19th December 2024, ADCMC will host the Resilience Forum to promote cooperation on implementing the Alternative National Service Programme. This annual event gathers industry leaders, decision-makers, government bodies, companies, and stakeholders to discuss best practices related to business continuity.

The forum will also recognise key local entities and partners contributing effectively to this national initiative. By doing so, it supports business continuity across Abu Dhabi while showcasing successful strategies in managing emergencies.

With inputs from WAM