### A Transformative Delegation Experience
Recently, a delegation from Sharjah, led by Maryam Saif Al Shamsi, the Assistant Director-General for Support Services at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), embarked on an enlightening journey to Spain. Accompanied by Amal Abdullah Al Ali, Director of the Sharjah Training and Development Centre (STDC), the group included representatives from various public and semi-governmental bodies across the emirate. This initiative aimed to foster knowledge exchange and enhance leadership capabilities within Sharjah’s governmental framework.
### Knowledge Exchange
One of the standout moments of the trip was a meeting with José María González Gijón, the director of the University of Navarra’s Madrid campus. Gijón spoke passionately about the academic partnership between the university and STDC, highlighting it as a prime example of effective cross-institutional knowledge exchange. This collaboration not only enriches the educational landscape but also serves as a model for similar partnerships at both regional and international levels.
The delegation also had the opportunity to engage with Eduardo Olier Arenas, President of the Choiseul Institute for Economic Studies. Arenas commended the efforts of SCCI and STDC in cultivating leadership talent that aligns with global best practices. His insights underscored the importance of developing a robust leadership pipeline that can navigate the complexities of today’s economic landscape.
### Building Leadership Capabilities
Maryam Saif Al Shamsi expressed her satisfaction with the outcomes of the tour, stating that participants returned to Sharjah with a sharper strategic perspective. The experience provided a clearer understanding of how global best practices can be tailored to fit the UAE’s unique working environment. Al Shamsi emphasized that the program has laid the groundwork for deeper academic collaborations, which will enhance future iterations of the Strategic Business Leadership Programme.
Echoing her sentiments, Amal Abdullah Al Ali noted that the experiences gained at the University of Navarra and other innovative institutions in Spain were precisely what STDC aimed to achieve. The training extended beyond traditional classroom settings, transforming the visit into a comprehensive learning experience. This approach is expected to have a lasting impact on participants’ capabilities and open doors for new international partnerships in training and development.
### In the Field
The delegation’s itinerary included a visit to the Navarra Chamber of Commerce, where they explored how the chamber supports local businesses, attracts investment, and nurtures entrepreneurship. The discussions during this visit highlighted the critical role of public-private cooperation in driving economic development and fostering institutional innovation.
Additionally, the group visited SODENA, the investment arm of the Navarra regional government. Here, they gained insights into how SODENA supports startups and promotes innovation, shaping a conducive business environment for economic growth. This exposure provided valuable lessons on how strategic investments can stimulate local economies.
### Powering the Future
A particularly fascinating stop on the tour was BeePlanet, a company pioneering energy storage technology. Participants witnessed firsthand how BeePlanet repurposes used electric vehicle batteries into smart renewable energy storage systems. This innovative approach exemplifies the principles of the circular economy, showcasing how sustainability can be integrated into modern business practices.
### Participants
This year’s program attracted senior leaders and staff from a diverse array of Sharjah’s government and semi-governmental sectors. Notable participants included representatives from the Housing Department, Public Works Department, Central Finance Department, Department of Town Planning and Survey, Sharjah National Oil Corporation, Social Security Fund, Dibba Al Hisn Municipality, and the Department of Statistics and Community Development. This impressive lineup reflects Sharjah’s commitment to investing in its people and enhancing their capabilities for the future.
