Latest news with #Muna
Zawya
7 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Nurturing Tomorrow's Leaders: Empowering Emirati talent for a competitive future
An inside look at how the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism is pioneering market-aligned HR initiatives to shape a future-ready workforce that serves national priorities Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 'Today, I feel equipped with a strong set of leadership tools, and I know exactly when and where to apply them in my role,' says Muna Al Shamsi, a member of the Investment Support team at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). 'I knew the learning would be directly relevant to the opportunities within the organisation I'm so eager to grow in.' Muna's journey is a testament to DET's commitment to cultivating forward-thinking Emirati employees and reflects the broader transformation taking place across Dubai's government sector, driven by pioneering talent development programmes. Dubai's rise as a global business and tourism hub is rooted in bold ambition, strategic foresight, and a long-standing commitment to investing in people, with DET taking inspiration from the city's visionary leadership to redefine what it means to nurture public sector talent in a rapidly evolving world. Aligned with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to double the size of Dubai's economy in the decade up to 2033 and further consolidate its position as a leading global destination for business and leisure, DET is focused on building a resilient, skilled, and future-ready workforce. 'Human capital is not just a pillar of our strategy, it is its foundation,' says Nada Al Marri, Human Resources director at DET. 'At the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism we consider talent development a national priority. Our programmes are aligned with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and are designed to accelerate Emirati integration into the private sector while raising the standard of government excellence. This is the legacy of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to empower people as the engine of Dubai's future.' This vision is being brought to life through a series of flagship initiatives designed not just to train, but to transform the future workforce. Among them are the Massar Graduate Programme, the Mini Master of Business Administration (MBA), and the Industry Exposure Programme. Each pathway plays a distinct role in shaping leadership and strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors, embedding private-sector HR practices, and delivering measurable outcomes. Massar Graduate Programme: Building Foundations For many young Emiratis, the Massar Graduate Programme represents the first step into the world of government service. Created for recent graduates, the programme offers a carefully designed introduction to the inner workings of DET, from departmental rotations and mentoring to tailored skills development. Developed in collaboration with PwC, one of the world's largest providers of assurance, tax, and business consulting services, the programme combines structured learning, coaching, on-the-job experience, and performance evaluation. It is not just about technical competence; it is about instilling a mindset of curiosity, critical thinking, and long-term vision. Since its launch in September 2024, 18 participants have completed the programme and taken up roles across DET departments, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME). Mini MBA: Accelerating Leadership Potential At a more advanced stage of the talent journey is DET's Mini MBA, another example of how DET is cultivating in-house expertise. Targeted at high-potential employees, this intensive development programme comprises 10 modules covering core areas such as business strategy, finance, operations, and leadership. Delivered to 68 participants in partnership with renowned institutions such as the Human Network International (HNI) and Alliance University, the Mini MBA equips participants to understand the commercial drivers behind government decision-making, preparing them to take on broader responsibilities within DET and beyond. 'The fact that the Mini MBA course is designed by DET itself is what really motivated me,' says Muna Al Shamsi. Industry Exposure Programme: Crossing Sectors A unique talent initiative at DET is the Industry Exposure Programme, which has placed 39 DET employees in short-term secondments with leading private sector organisations such as KPMG, Al-Futtaim, and Unilever. With a goal to bring public sector talent face-to-face with real-world business challenges, each placement is carefully planned, from role definition to outcome measurement, and ensures that both the employee and the host company benefits from the programme. Participants come away with hands-on insights into everything from digital transformation and innovation to customer service and operations. For many, the experience is nothing short of transformative. Investing in More than Jobs These programmes do more than support individual career progression, they build a broader culture of innovation, excellence, and accountability across government departments. Al Marri adds: 'We are developing an ecosystem that fuels Dubai's growth and gives young Emiratis something to aspire to. By working with global partners such as KPMG and Unilever, we are redefining public sector human resources and equipping our people with transferable skills that transcend industries. This cross-sector approach reflects the Dubai model: agile, innovative and built on partnerships that drive Dubai's economic transformation and global ambitions. When we invest in people, we invest in the city's future.' And that future is unfolding fast. With more than 800 artificial intelligence (AI) companies based in Dubai and strong growth across sectors such as fintech, tourism, and logistics, the demand for agile and skilled talent is increasing. In 2024, Dubai ranked third globally for job creation, according to the Dubai FDI Annual Results & Rankings report – which is a testament to the city's proactive approach. DET's programmes are meeting this momentum and shaping what comes next. Today, more than 60,000 students are enrolled in vocational and technical education programmes in Dubai. Meanwhile, according to the 'Jobs of the Future' report, published recently by DET in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), 25% of current work tasks worldwide could be transformed by automation and AI. Looking ahead, DET plans to expand its reach by integrating more strategic partners, scaling its programmes, digitising training delivery, and aligning its programmes with Dubai's priorities in emerging sectors such as AI and sustainability. Al Marri says: 'With the D33 Agenda guiding our path, we are committed to ensuring every individual at DET has the tools and confidence to lead. We're building a talent ecosystem that positions Dubai as a global leader in human capital development. Our work today will shape the city's success for decades.' About Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) With the ultimate vision of making Dubai the world's leading commercial centre, investment hub and tourism destination, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandated to support the Government in positioning the emirate as a major hub for global economy and tourism, and in boosting the city's economic and tourism competitiveness indicators, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate's economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities over the next decade. Under this remit, DET is driving efforts to further enhance Dubai's diversified, innovative service-based economy to attract top global talent, deliver a world-class business environment and accelerate productivity growth. Additionally, DET is supporting Dubai's vision to become the world's best city to visit, live and work in by promoting its diverse destination proposition, unique lifestyle and outstanding quality of life, overall. DET is the principal authority for planning, supervising, developing and marketing Dubai's business and tourism sectors. It is also responsible for licensing and classifying all types of businesses, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. DET's portfolio includes Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), Dubai SME, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT).
Observer
22-06-2025
- Health
- Observer
MoH issues guidelines to protect workers from heat stress
Muscat: As temperatures rise during the summer months in the Sultanate of Oman, the risk of heat stress emerges as one of the most significant challenges facing outdoor work environments, particularly at construction sites and open project areas. In this context, the Ministry of Health (MoH), has launched an awareness initiative titled 'Safe Summer', aimed at raising awareness among employers and workers about the dangers of heat stress and ways to prevent it. This initiative reflects the commitment of the concerned authorities to safeguard the health and safety of workers. As part of the campaign, the Ministry of Health issued a set of general recommendations that employers must adhere to in order to reduce the risk of heat stress. These include implementing smart work schedules by assigning strenuous tasks during the early morning or late afternoon hours, and prohibiting outdoor work during peak heat periods specifically from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm during the months of June, July and August. Authorities also emphasised the importance of providing regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Rest periods should last between 45 to 60 minutes when working in a hot environment. Additionally, workers should have access to drinking water and hydration materials to help maintain body hydration and replace lost fluids. In terms of improving the working environment, the recommendations stress the use of air conditioning or fans in indoor workspaces, as well as portable fans and umbrellas in outdoor areas, to help reduce surrounding temperatures. The campaign also underscores the importance of increasing awareness through training workers to recognise the signs of heat stress and respond appropriately. Educational materials including posters, brochures and short videos should be available at worksites. Furthermore, employers are advised to monitor daily temperature and humidity levels and to identify high-risk groups such as individuals with diabetes, heart conditions, or those taking diuretics, giving them priority in protective measures. HEAT STRESS To better understand the health impacts of heat stress, the Observer spoke to Dr Muna Mohammed, an Emergency Medicine Specialist, who emphasised that heat stress is not limited to fatigue or exhaustion it can escalate into severe conditions such as heatstroke, which may lead to unconsciousness or organ failure if not treated immediately. She added that it is crucial for workers to recognise early warning signs such as excessive sweating, dizziness, muscle cramps and blurred vision. If any of these symptoms appear, the worker should be moved to a shaded, well-ventilated area and provided with water. If symptoms do not improve, emergency services should be contacted right away. Dr Muna affirmed that the measures adopted by the authorities in Oman reflect advanced public health awareness. She stressed the importance of cooperation between employers and health agencies to mitigate the risks of heat stress and ensure the safety of the workforce. Through this campaign, the Ministry of Health calls on all public and private institutions to comply with the recommendations and conduct ongoing awareness efforts, especially during the summer months when heat stress cases are more common.
India Gazette
25-05-2025
- Climate
- India Gazette
Early arrival of monsoon in India brings worry for Nepal flood survivors as nation expects above-average monsoon
By Binod Prasad Adhikari Kavrepalanchowk [Nepal], May 25 (ANI): It is where Muna Tamang's house used to stand, along with four dozen others, till September 25, 2024. Now it has turned into an embankment covered with sand and rock, where the Roshi river carrying the murky water still flows through. (Drone shot has been named accordingly). Eight months since flooding disaster that struck the Himalayan Nation from September 26 to 28 flood survivors like Tamang are trying to live a normal life in Narke along the BP Highway in Kavrepalanchowk district. She lost her properties to the flood in the Roshi river, where her house and plots of land were swept away by the flood, bringing a drastic change to her life. 'Last year, before the flood and landslide hit, there had been incessant rainfall for a few days. We were inside our home only, at around 5/6 in the morning, the river had started flowing up to the level of the suspension bridge, the flood tore down the bridge, and then it started flowing through our homes. We rushed out to the heights, and we could not take out our belongings. All of our houses were swept away by the floods,' Tamang told ANI as she sat inside her general store, which serves as a dine-in hotel as well. Muna's worries has been aided by the early arrival of monsoon that has already hit the coast of India's southernmost state of Kerala on Saturday, eight days earlier than usual, marking the earliest arrival in 16 years. The early arrival of monsoon with a warning of above average rainfall this year comes as a bane for the flood victims like Muna, which delivers nearly 70 per cent of the rain that Nepal needs to water farms and replenish aquifers and reservoirs. 'We are living in fear; the trauma of last year's September still lingers in our memory. If there is rainfall in high-lying areas, then the river would be swollen, and recently, in the third week of May, the river was roaring, hitting the embankments. We are feeling safe temporarily for being near the market area as it lies in high areas,' Tamang told ANI further, as her area was again hit by intense floods in the third week of May. The September flooding not only swept away Muna's home and properties but also the sections of BP Highway, the shortest road connection to the Southern Plains of Nepal. Vehicles are now ferrying through the damaged sections of the major highway which took two decades to complete construction with the help of temporary embankment build along the riverside. Worries for Nepal's flood victims increase further as the Himalayan Nation is likely to witness above-normal monsoon rains for the second consecutive year, according to a regional consensus among South Asian meteorologists. Above-normal rains mean destruction and disaster in the Himalayan Nation. A statement issued by the 31st Session of the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum on April 29 indicated that most parts of South Asia are expected to receive above-normal rainfall during the 2025 southwest monsoon season, which spans from June to September. Monsoon onset typically occurs on June 13 and withdraws by October 2 but this year it has arrived early. However, some parts in the north, south, east, and northeast of South Asia may experience normal to below-normal rainfall. Nepal's monsoon relies on the weather pattern of the Bay of Bengal of India from where the monsoon clouds generates and bring rain to the Himalayan Nation. The regional climate outlook was jointly prepared by all nine National Meteorological and Hydrological Services of South Asia, with the assistance of international experts, during the Pune, India session. Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) in its latest seasonal outlook mentions that 'most parts of Nepal are likely to receive above-average rainfall during the upcoming monsoon season, which spans from June 1 to September 30 (Jestha 18 to Ashwin 14). The forecast indicates a 55 to 65 per cent probability of above-normal rainfall in the eastern Karnali, northern Lumbini, and most of Gandaki Province.' The outlook also predicts that the southern Sudurpaschim, western Lumbini, northeastern Gandaki, and northern parts of Bagmati and Koshi Provinces face a 45 to 55 percent likelihood of heavier monsoon rains. As per the outlook, regions such as the eastern and southern Madhesh Province and other parts of the country are expected to see a 35 to 45 per cent chance of receiving above-average rainfall. 'There is a 55 to 65 per cent probability of higher-than-normal daytime temperatures in the northwestern Sudurpaschim, northern Karnali and Lumbini, western Gandaki, western Madhesh, and central Bagmati regions,' the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology forecast stated. The department also reviewed last year's (2081 BS) monsoon performance, noting that the forecast of above-average rainfall proved accurate in most regions. Likewise, predictions of higher temperatures were reflected in actual recorded data. The DHM already has advised the public and relevant authorities to remain prepared for potential weather-related challenges, especially in flood- and landslide-prone areas during the peak monsoon period. The World Bank's recent Nepal Development Update noted that severe floods and landslides from September 26 to 28, last year, caused by unusually intense monsoon activity intensified by climate change, resulted in damage amounting to 0.8 per cent of the GDP. The total damage is estimated at Rs46.7 billion, affecting infrastructure, agriculture, and social sectors. As the Roshi river flows further down to the Southern plains, it had unleashed further terror. The devastating floods and landslides had swept away around a 10-kilometre-long road from Bhakundebesi in Kavre to Nepalthok of Sindhuli on September 27-28. The road was washed away in some places and was severely damaged in others. The Kavre section of the BP Highway was badly damaged in Mamtikhola, Kaldhunga, Boksikuna, Narkepul, Pinathalibesi, Dalabesi, Bhyakurekhola, and Mangaltar, among other places. The roads were swept away in these areas. According to the Road Division Office in Bhaktapur, 'diversions have been constructed in the affected area to resume transportation along the highway. It is suspected that it will take months, if not years, to reconstruct the disaster-ravaged highway to its previous condition.' 'After the Roshi flood, the major portion of the highway was destroyed. We have been deploying the excavator to construct embankments for the vehicles from Nepalthok to Kathmandu,' Homendra Kumar Yadav, Sub-engineer at the Road Division, Sindhuli, told ANI. The BP Highway, built with Japanese assistance, started on foot in 1995 and was completed in 2015, at the cost of NRs 21.5 billion. The single-lane 160 km highway links Banepa of Kavre to Bardibas of Mahottari through Sindhuli. The highway is the shortest route connecting eastern Tarai and hills with the Capital. Amrit Pariyar, residing in Khurkot, a centre point along the highway, still recalls the horrors of last September's monsoon mayhem. Having home about 500 meters upstream from the Sunkoshi River, Amrit bore witness to the destruction of the bridge that worked as lifeline for most of the people in Sindhuli as it connects Ramechhap and other adjoining districts. 'The bridge got swept away in between 10 to 11 AM on that day of September, I was near the area, the river was carrying wooden logs and debris which got stuck in the bridge and the force of water swept off the bridge,' Amrit told ANI taking break from his work at his home. The flood in Sunkoshi River that day swept one suspension bridge and a section of the bridge that connected Sindhuli with Ramechhap. The twisted metals and remains of the suspension bridge stuck onto the slopes across the river explain the velocity of the river that day. 'The bridge was vital connection for us. It was the only means for us to get across to fetch the fodder for our cattle's as well as to travel to Ramechhap District and its administrative capital Manthali, it was halted for few days. Thankfully, the bridge got constructed within days but the monsoon is bringing on worries,' Amrit added further. In case of return of river condition like of last year, the residents of Khurkot might not have an escape route as the BP Highway still remains in ruins with slightest pre-monsoon rainfall halting the movement adds on tension. The floods and landslides in mid-September damaged various sections of the BP Highway, and the reconstruction is expected to cost around Rs 9.66 billion. A post-flood study revealed that reconstruction would require a significant amount of money. The Division Road Office, Bhaktapur, estimates that the reconstruction will cost around NRs 9.66 billion for various locations along the BP Highway, from Bhakunde to Nepalthok. The floods completely damaged eight kilometres of the 12-kilometre road section from Chowkidanada in Namo Buddha, Kavrepalanchok, to Kaladhunga in Roshi Rural Municipality. The study has shown that there is need to construct three types of walls (RCC retaining, plum, and gabion walls) on this section of the road. Some areas along the highway require a bridge or install a wall. With monsoon set to kick in next month and the roads unprepared for the possible disaster it would be only possible to operate the vehicle after the water level recedes. 'If there would be pour down, more than average then it would be impossible for us to operate the vehicle but there is proper provision in the contract for the movement of the vehicle which is to construct the embankment whenever the current recedes and then only we will be able to operate vehicles,' Yadav said. (ANI)
South China Morning Post
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Who is Jensen McRae? Justin Bieber is a fan, Phoebe Bridgers reposted the singer's video
As the Covid-19 vaccine began spreading more widely in early 2021, singer-songwriter Jensen McRae joked in a tweet that fellow US singer Phoebe Bridgers would release a song in two years about 'hooking up in the car while waiting in line to get vaccinated at Dodger Stadium', a ballpark in Los Angeles in the US state of California. Advertisement Bridgers did not release the song, but McRae did. As the tweet took off, she threaded a video of herself singing 'a pre-emptive cover'. 'Immune', penned by McRae in Bridgers' contemplative style, was released in full within two weeks. 'It was a perfect storm,' McRae, 27, says. 'I was parodying Phoebe Bridgers who was becoming world famous in that exact moment … I was also writing about this topic that everyone was thinking about constantly because we were in lockdowns.' Bridgers reposted the video, writing simply: 'oh my god'. Phoebe Bridgers at the Coachella festival in 2023. A song penned by Jensen McRae parodied Bridgers' music style. Photo: AP The song preluded McRae's debut EP, released in 2021, and album, in 2022, which led to touring gigs with indie pop band Muna and singer-songwriter Noah Kahan. Last year, she signed with Dead Oceans, the same record label that represents Bridgers. McRae's second album, the folk-pop I Don't Know How, But They Found Me!, is out this week.
Khaleej Times
28-04-2025
- Khaleej Times
Muna British Academy Finds a New Home at Saadiyat Island
Aldar Education's much-loved flagship primary school, Muna British Academy, is preparing for a transformative new chapter. Set to relocate to a state-of-the-art, purpose-built campus in the prestigious Saadiyat Lagoons community, the school will open its doors in August 2025 — not only offering its signature nurturing environment for early learners but also extending its academic journey all the way to British Sixth Form. This strategic move is more than a change of location; it marks the dawn of a new era for one of Abu Dhabi's most respected schools. In an exclusive interview, Graeme Kinkead, Principal of Muna British Academy, shares the inspiration behind this move and the vision that will shape the future of education at Muna. A Vision for the Future 'The world is changing fast, and we're preparing children for a future that we can't entirely predict,' Kinkead explains. 'While we've achieved excellence on our current site, the new campus gives us the opportunity to take things even further. Purpose-built innovation spaces will empower us to fulfill our long-term vision of delivering world-class education from ages 3 to 18.' This expansion also addresses a long-standing limitation: previously, students would leave Muna at age 11. 'Now, we'll guide and inspire them all the way through their teenage years, until they graduate at 18 — ready to make a meaningful impact in the world,' he adds. A Campus that Inspires From the youngest learners to soon-to-be graduates, every student will benefit from expansive, cutting-edge facilities. The new campus promises larger classrooms for collaborative learning, vast outdoor spaces for FS1 and FS2, and a host of specialist facilities for academic and creative development. 'Imagine dark rooms for photography, dance studios, a fully equipped auditorium, soundproof music practice rooms — even a dedicated space for coding and robotics,' says Kinkead. 'It's a dream environment, built for excellence.' The Saadiyat Lagoons campus is designed with innovation at its heart. With robotics rooms, design technology (DT) labs, and advanced art studios, the school will foster hands-on learning with modern tools. One standout feature is the leap in sports infrastructure: from a single swimming pool to three, including a dedicated training pool for younger students. 'We're not just adding facilities,' says Kinkead. 'We're enhancing experiences. This space allows us to bring our STEM, arts, and sports programmes to life — in ways we couldn't before.' Elevating Extracurriculars Extracurricular activities are a cornerstone of the Muna experience, and the new location takes this commitment to the next level. With eight badminton courts, two full-size basketball pitches, outdoor tennis courts, paddle courts, and cutting-edge music production rooms, students will have unmatched opportunities to explore their passions. 'We're welcoming incredible subject specialists to lead high-level ECAs — including a UK-based art and design teacher with university-level expertise. It's about depth, breadth, and quality,' Kinkead explains. Moving a thriving school community is no small feat, and Muna is approaching it with care and collaboration. 'Our goal is to retain what makes Muna so special,' says Kinkead. 'We're working closely with families and staff to ensure everyone feels part of the journey.' Through parent workshops, staff buddy systems, and planned student induction days — including interactive 3D tours of the new site — the school is ensuring a seamless transition grounded in community spirit. Raising the Bar for Excellence According to Kinkead, the move to Saadiyat Lagoons is more than an upgrade — it's a reinvention. 'We've always provided world-class education, but in facilities that no longer matched our ambition,' he reflects. 'Now, with cutting-edge design, technology, and learning spaces at our fingertips, we're shaping a curriculum that reflects the future — from AI to 3D printing.' Importantly, well-being remains a priority. 'We're designing everything around the child — their needs, their interests, their potential,' he says. 'This is about shaping confident, curious individuals ready to thrive.' As the school looks forward to welcoming its first-ever Year 7 cohort in 2025, Kinkead shares an emotional vision for the years ahead. 'By 2030, those students will be our first graduating class,' he says proudly. 'They'll be 18, stepping into the world from the halls of Muna — not just as students, but as global citizens.' He adds, 'We're not starting from scratch. We're carrying forward a legacy — and making it even better. I hope that anyone reading this can see how committed we are to putting children first, and shaping a future-ready curriculum that empowers them to change the world.'
