Thirty of Sharjah’s best managers from the public and private sectors successfully completed the Sharjah Leadership Program (SLP) (11th edition) and received their certificates at a special ceremony held today, January 15, at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Center in Sharjah. The program, which is an initiative of Sharjah Capability Development, a subsidiary of Rubu Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators, is organized in collaboration with American University of Sharjah (AUS), the academic partner of the SLP for the past six years.

Each successful candidate had to complete a project that envisaged a positive impact in their workplace or the larger Sharjah community. The success of the SLP thus far can be evidenced by the more than 400 mid- and senior-level managers from across Sharjah who have graduated from this intensive program. Designed to help participants become more effective, innovative and adaptive leaders, the SLP has had a broad impact throughout the emirate, as it develops leadership capability at scale. Many of those completing the program have gone onto work on projects of relevance to Sharjah’s development.

Speaking on the occasion, Professor Kevin Mitchell, Chancellor of AUS, said:

“AUS is pleased to contribute to Sharjah for Capability Development-Tatweer’s efforts to ensure the advancement of the Emirate of Sharjah through The Sharjah Leadership Program, which relies on the diverse strengths of AUS faculty and demonstrates the institution’s commitment to lifelong learning. The university, through AUS Executive Education, is honored to be the academic partner for The Sharjah Leadership Program.” 

Participants for the program are chosen based on their potential to become transformative leaders within their organization. Each year, the program provides prospective leaders with an opportunity for career development and the realization of leadership ambitions. As part of the program, participants undertake coaching sessions with AUS coaches, certified by the International Coach Federation.

Ahmed Afana, one of the graduates of the SLP and an AUS MBA student, said:

“The Sharjah Leadership Program has allowed me to acquire new skills that I now use un my everyday work life. I have also had the opportunity to meet people from different industries who I have kept in contact with. I would highly recommend this program to individuals looking to enhance their leadership skills.”

In synch with the demands of the program, AUS Executive Education developed an interdisciplinary approach in the structure and rollout of the program. Experts from the university’s School of Business Administration, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Engineering were included to create and deliver the program. A wide variety of modules such  Authentic Leadership, Digital Innovation in Smart Cities, Public Speaking, Business Analytics, Negotiations and Strategic Planning, were included in the program.

An important part of the SLP every year is its cultural immersion element. This year, the program’s participants visited the SDA Bocconi School of Management in Italy, one of the world’s most prestigious business schools.

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