Experts meet to discuss training programmes

Training managers attend the forum

Training managers from across the country met at Qatar University to discuss programmes for developing education and learning opportunities in organisations, as part of the QU Initiative for Lifelong Learning (QUILL).  Qtel, Kahramaa, QNB, Qatar Gas, Shell, Ministry of Finance and Aspire Zone were among the organisations represented at the event held on Tuesday.The second Training Managers’ Forum (TMF), an initiative established by QU’s Continuing Education Office earlier this year, brings together HR experts from all fields to share challenges and experiences, and to establish best practice for training within Qatar.  The Forum aims to share knowledge and assist all HR specialists in creating a well-educated, well-trained and capable workforce, in line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Qatar National Development Strategy 2011-2016.Highlighting the achievements of the Forum since its first meeting in January this year, Continuing Education co-ordinator Dr Raid Jaber described how it has established partnerships across the public and private sectors in Qatar.  “QUILL has developed surveys to help HR specialists assess what particular training their staff need, particularly in soft skills. “This progress will be built on in the coming months, with further surveys to assess and determine training provision currently provided for HR.  “There will also be closer co-operation with reputable international education and training organisations such as the UK-based Institute of Development and Training and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development to set up courses in Qatar, according to local needs,” he added.QU HR consultant Najat El Mahdy said QUILL’s objectives in the coming year includes developing and offering human resources as a minor course at the university’s College of Business and Economics, to embed an understanding of the topic from undergraduate level. “This course is about exposing people to the human resources profession early on their careers. It is a small step which hopefully we can build on in the future to provide more comprehensive HR training.”She also announced that QUILL is looking for up to 12 senior Qatari HR professionals to take part in a pilot study starting this Fall to look into the specific training needs of HR specialists. It is hoped that the one-year programme, which can be offered at various career levels, will become a mark of quality for the profession in Qatar.Other presenters included Enita Barrett, liaison officer in the office of QU vice president and chief academic officer on the Forum’s newly-established constitution; Vanessa Robinson from the Chartered Institute on Personnel and Development on how to engender a culture of “business savvy” among HR professionals;  and Helen Tucker, Institute of Development and Training founder and CEO, on her organisation’s plans to establish an employability skills award, as well as culture-sensitive initiatives in line with the education needs of Qatar.Robinson stated that for HR to contribute to organisations, it is not enough just to have a deep, technical expertise in different areas. “What is needed is to have a really great understanding of the context and business model in which their business operates. Only then can you give the right response.”Tucker pointed out that employers look for people who are work ready. “You need to have the right skills which will not only help you get your job but keep it and progress in it.”