H. H. Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi launches “Ask for Knowledge” initiative to help develop human skills and promote creativity & innovation in UAE

UAE, March 4, 2015 – H. H. Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, Managing Director of Aafaq Islamic Finance, a leading provider of Islamic finance products and services in the UAE, launched the ‘Seek Knowledge’ initiative in line with the ‘Arab Innovation Centre for Education’ recently initiatied by H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

The initiative is based on four key elements, beginning with  the launching of a  Center for Studies and Research, which will particularly specialize in Islamic economy. This is in collaboration with local and regional  organizations, including the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Pakistan, the International Shari'ah Research Academy for Islamic Finance  in Malaysia, and other institutions involved in scientific research and studies. Part of the initiative is also to establish a school with curricula promoting creativity and innovation to do away with the old practice of memorization. Additionally, it will open up several on-the-job opportunities within Aafaq’s departments in collaboration with various state universities. The objective is to  enhance the students’ skills by teaching them about business operations. The opportunities will also enable them to apply their learning and scientific ideas in the real work. Finally, a specialized center in training and career rehabilitation will be introduced to offer accredited  certifications in management, economics, Islamic finance, and information technology.

H. H. Sheikh Faisal said: "We at Aafaq, along with the private sector, must show interest in the importance of human contributions as a cornerstone  of all efforts towards sustainable growth.  It is in this context that we have launched several initiatives aimed at enhancing human skills by providing structure and suitable learning and training environment. “Ask for Knowledge” is in line with the directives of H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the vision of H.H. General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, to establish a a culture of creativity and innovation in the country. The initiative is also based on the Qur'an in which the first word of Mohammed’s message was ‘read’ (Iqraa). This clearly shows the need to seek knowledge and encourage  research and training. Through the help of our local and global partners, we hope to help promote a culture of innovation and creativity. We can achieve this by focusing on human development and providing what is needed to continue our progress.”

‘Ask for Knowledge’ is the fourth initiative launched by H. H. Sheikh Faisal ever since the pionnering ‘Tadawaul’ and ‘Tas’heel,’ both of which aim to contribute to efforts to position Dubai as the Capital of Islamic Economy. As part of the Smart Government initiative, Aafaq also launched an application and a smart card for electronic payments during GITEX 2014 in collaboration with the Department of Economic Development in Dubai. Additionally, the company implemented the ‘Happy Customer’ initiative in line with the UAE’s ‘Happiness Index’ program.