Demonstrating a firm dedication to lifelong learning, 53 Sharjah government professionals have completed the English Language course offered by the American University of Sharjah’s (AUS) Achievement Academy Outreach Program (AAOP). This initiative, held in collaboration with the Sharjah Department of Human Resources (DHR), exemplifies AUS’ proactive role in extending its renowned educational offerings to the broader Sharjah community.
The two-week course, held September 16-26, 2024, focused on improving English communication skills at four proficiency levels, delivering 32 hours of intensive, targeted instruction. This initiative forms part of AUS’ comprehensive outreach strategy, which aims to equip professionals with practical, workplace-relevant skills that directly enhance their contributions to their organizations and the wider community.
The graduation ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of the participants, with senior AUS officials in attendance, including Shaima Bin Taliah, Acting Vice Chancellor for Student Experience; Ali Alsuwaidi, Acting Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration; Ali Shuhaimy, Executive Director of Enrollment Management; Amal AlGhammai, Executive Director of Employee Services; Saeed Al Shamsi, Chief of Protocol; Jessica March, Director of the Achievement Academy; and instructors from the Achievement Academy.
Representing DHR, Majed Hamad Al Marri, Director of the Sharjah DHR, praised the participants, stating: “Your commitment to improving your skills is not only an achievement for yourselves but a contribution to the continued advancement of Sharjah’s public service sector.”
In his welcome remarks, Ali Shuhaimy emphasized the importance of collaboration between the university and government entities: “Working together with the Sharjah DHR allows us to empower professionals in our community. Our upcoming course on October 7 will further extend these opportunities to job seekers across five locations in Sharjah and the Eastern regions.”
Dr. Lina Hejjawi, AAOP Manager and Senior Instructor at AUS, congratulated the graduating participants and expressed her gratitude to the dedicated instructors who played a key role in teaching the course. Reflecting on the long-standing partnership, she noted: “Since 2009, this program has provided invaluable training for nearly 1,000 professionals. Today, as we celebrate the 19th cohort’s graduation, we acknowledge how essential this collaboration has been in nurturing the development of the local workforce.”
This outreach program is yet another testament to AUS’ dedication to fostering connections between academia and the wider community, ensuring that the benefits of a world-class education extend beyond its campus and positively impact the region. For more information about the Achievement Academy Outreach Program, visit www.aus.edu/academics/achievement-academy/outreach-program.
