1,414 Emirati Entrepreneurs Empowered By Ruwad's Comprehensive Training Programmes In 2024

In 2024, the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Foundation "Ruwad," under the Sharjah Department of Economic Development, trained 1,414 Emirati entrepreneurs. These programmes are part of Ruwad's annual plan to equip project owners with skills for managing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sharjah.

Fatima Al Ali, Acting Director of Ruwad, highlighted the foundation's ambitious training projects aimed at empowering Emirati talents in entrepreneurship. The programmes are designed to create promising opportunities for entrepreneurs and support their ventures across various sectors. This initiative reinforces Sharjah’s position as a preferred destination for national entrepreneurs.

The training and diploma programmes offered by Ruwad provide participants with specialised knowledge and practical skills in administrative, financial, marketing, and legal fields. These are delivered through an integrated approach that combines real-world theoretical insights with hands-on application.

Ruwad has established strong partnerships with academic institutions such as universities, centres, and institutes. These collaborations extend to specialised entrepreneurship training entities. They facilitate advanced training using modern technological tools and applications.

The workshops cover a wide range of topics from general skill-building and business management to specialised content for launching small projects. Financial accounting and taxation for SMEs are also included. Additionally, mini-MBA programmes, specialised diplomas, introductory workshops, and knowledge development sessions are part of the offerings.

Al Ali expressed pride in Ruwad’s role in enhancing skills among various groups involved in or aspiring to join the entrepreneurial sector. These groups include existing entrepreneurs, aspiring startup founders, school and university students, government employees, retirees, and holders of home business licenses like Etimad and Masar.

Training Impact Since Establishment

Amina Mohammed, Director of the Training, Research, and Events Department at Ruwad, shared that by the end of 2024, a total of 395 training programmes and professional diplomas had been delivered since its inception. This amounted to 3,555 training hours over 1,139 days with 9,724 participants involved.

These initiatives reflect Ruwad's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship in Sharjah by equipping individuals with essential skills. The foundation continues to play a pivotal role in supporting Emirati entrepreneurs on their journey towards success.

With inputs from WAM