Building national talent: Emiratis graduate from elite audit training programme
ABU DHABI, UAE; November 2, 2021: Two cohorts of Emiratis graduated in Abu Dhabi from one of the UAE’s elite Emiratisation initiatives – the Pre-Audit Qualification Training (PAQT) programme. PAQT is devised and run by the Abu Dhabi Global Market Academy (ADGMA), in alliance with KPMG Lower Gulf, the Abu Dhabi Human Resource Authority, and the Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority. Over the next six months, an additional 46 Emiratis will graduate.
PAQT provides UAE nationals with world-class audit training, resources and job placement. Each participant receives training for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Audit Qualification, mentorship, work experience with top UAE companies, and continuous feedback.
Nader Haffar, Chairman of KPMG Middle East and South Asia, Chairman and CEO of KPMG Lower Gulf said: “We welcome our latest PAQT graduates into KPMG, as part of our ongoing efforts to offer Emirati talent the opportunity to continue their professional development and build careers in the professional services industry. Through our Emiratisation initiatives, we remain committed to empowering change, supporting the continued development of a diverse workforce in the UAE’s private sector and contributing to the nation’s growth. It is indeed gratifying to work with such prestigious public sector partners to drive this visionary program.”
Upon graduation, graduates will move on to employment in the private sector, contributing to the nation’s diverse professional competence and overall competitiveness. KPMG is firmly committed to supporting the employment of Emirati talent in the private sector and supports the UAE’s federal initiatives, such as NAFIS.
Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, COO of ADGM and Managing Director of ADGM Academy said: “The UAE government has made great strides in ensuring long-term sustainable employment within the country. Partnering with private sector organisations, such as KPMG, expands the availability of jobs, ensuring that skilled Emirati talent can build sustainable long-term careers. As graduates of the ADGMA step into the workforce, we wish them success in building future competencies, benefiting their organisations and supporting the long-term ambitions of the UAE.”
Emirati graduates are keen to take advantage of PAQT’s unique features. Selected via a rigorous selection process, graduates undergo extensive classroom and online training. The curriculum is audit-focused, but also includes a broad spectrum of widely applicable business topics, such as high-impact presentation skills, statement of cash flows, time management and effective communications.
ADGMA’s graduation ceremony, on October 25th, was followed by a panel discussion on ‘Sustainable Employment – The National Development Program Journey and Impact’.
