SCCI hosts workshop to encourage private sector to adopt CSR

Organised under the theme “Impact Labs”, the workshop aimed to promote and encourage active business engagement in CSR practices that yield positive outcomes, in line with the UAE's sustainable development goals and its forward-looking vision centered on a sharing and a knowledge-based economy. 

The workshop, held at the Sharjah Chamber’s headquarters, was attended by Jamal Saeed Buzanjal, Director of Corporate Communication Department at SCCI, along with several officials from various government entities and private sector representatives.

During the workshop, a presentation was delivered on MAJRA’s strategic objectives, showcasing its flagship programmes and projects designed to channel private sector efforts toward high-priority national initiatives that are aligned with Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) metrics and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

The Sharjah Chamber emphasised that hosting the workshop underscores its commitment to promoting sustainable practices within Sharjah's business ecosystem. It aims to enhance awareness regarding corporate social responsibility, encouraging private sector companies to actively engage in initiatives led by government entities and institutions.

The Chamber highlighted its pioneering efforts in promoting community development, empowering the business sector, and driving sustainable economic practices. Among these efforts is the Sharjah Chamber Corporate Social Responsibility Platform, which serves as a developmental tool for companies to adopt best CSR practices, assess their operational strengths and weaknesses, and effectively manage the impact of their business activities on the environment and society.

The National CSR Fund – MAJRA underscored the significance of partnering with the Sharjah Chamber to host the workshop, in coordination with the CSR and Sustainability Committee of the Emirate of Sharjah, headed by H.E Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director General of SCCI. The aim is to raise awareness on the importance of corporate social responsibility among private sector businesses. 

MAJRA noted that CSR represents a fundamental pillar in achieving the UAE's sustainable development objectives. It reaffirmed its commitment to steering the private sector toward impactful engagement in initiatives that contribute to community welfare and support national goals.

The workshop shed light on the key challenges companies face in implementing CSR initiatives. It explored ways to channel their expertise and resources toward supporting key social priorities such as education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure development. 

The session also outlined innovative solutions that enhance private sector contributions to approved sustainable CSR programmes and projects. Moreover, the workshop delved into the added value that CSR brings to companies, showcasing the key CSR initiatives they undertake and evaluating their adherence to ESG principles.