SMC Conducts Training Workshop for Student Volunteers

Sharjah Media Centre (SMC), organisers of the annual International Government Communication Forum, conducted a two-day training workshop on VIP protocol and international etiquette for a team of student volunteers from educational institutions that include the American University of Sharjah, University of Sharjah, Higher Colleges of Technology, and the Kulluna Khalifa' patriotic group.

SMC's initiative comes ahead of IGCF 2014 that is scheduled to run next February at the Expo Centre Sharjah under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

The training workshop articulated SMC's sustained efforts in developing the communication skills of UAE's youth and public sector employees in Sharjah. Aiming to promote collaboration and teamwork, the sessions were designed to develop the capacities and competencies of the participants in organising local and international events across sectors. More specifically, the initiative equipped them with the skills necessary for collaborating with government departments in the emirate as part of their mandate to welcome and liaise with VIP guests and international speakers throughout the duration of the event.

The training programme highlighted the importance of social intelligence, communication etiquette, interactions on social media, successful first impressions, body language, the art of conversation and VIP protocol procedures. Telephone communication and professional emailing skills were also imparted to participants as part of the training.

Reiterating the importance of skill development as an essential prerequisite in ensuring the success of an event of the magnitude of IGCF 2014, Osama Samra, Director of SMC, said: The International Government Communication Forum is not merely a global platform to discuss best practices in government communication. The landmark event also holds the responsibility to enhance the core competencies of government departments, sponsors and university volunteers. Our conviction in our youth as the true representatives of the country drives our efforts to engage them in the activities that Sharjah Media Centre organises as part of its calendar year.

Samra added: The IGCF presents a unique and valuable opportunity for more than 45 volunteers to interact and communicate with a number of senior political figures, thinkers and decision makers. We believe that such exposure will help boost their confidence in dealing with people of diverse nationalities, cultures and specialisations.

The training programme was organised by Yarnu, a pioneering new company that specialises in business etiquette and protocol in the Middle East. The sessions were hosted by Rana Nejem, an eminent media and protocol specialist who has over 25 years of experience in media, public relations and protocol. Nejem holds a Master's degree in international communications and negotiations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. She is also certified as an international etiquette consultant by the International Etiquette and Protocol Academy in London, and as an International Protocol Manager by the Protocol School of Washington.

IGCF 2014 is expected to draw the participation of more than 3,000 senior executives, political and media figures, prominent communication experts, as well as government communication professionals from government departments and media students from within and beyond the UAE and region.

LINK:	http://www.sharjahmedia.ae/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&i...
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