Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the master developer of tourism, cultural and residential projects in Abu Dhabi, introduced English classes to the workers of the Saadiyat Construction Village earlier this year; the classes were taught by TDIC staff volunteers. This initiative forms part of the company’s continued commitment to social responsibility through enhancing and supporting the workers’ well being. The first batch of English classes was concluded with a graduation ceremony that took place at TDIC’s HQ in Abu Dhabi.

Nabil Al Kendi, Chief Development Officer at TDIC, handed the students their certificates while their proud teachers watched and applauded on the sidelines. It was a very significant moment for everyone to witness, as these workers, who started the course barely speaking any English, were now confidently using the language to thank their teachers and TDIC for their efforts.

During the length of the course, the teachers focused on giving the workers the right tools of communication that will be useful to them in their line of work. They heavily dealt with role-playing scenarios and visual aids, in order to better convey meanings to workers.

The graduation ceremony began with the certificates being awarded by Nabil Al Kendi to a total of 38 students. Following this, the five staff volunteers were awarded with Certificates of Appreciation as a token of gratitude and admiration for all the hard work and effort they put in.

Nabil Al Kendi said: “The English course was an initiative that aimed to enrich the lives of the workers who live at the construction village and develop their language skills, confidence, and teamwork – and we believe we did just that. We are very proud of all the graduates today, and even more so of the volunteers who made it happen. With the success of this programme, we are definitely planning on welcoming new students and commencing the course again soon.”

The Saadiyat Construction Village currently houses more than 10,000 workers employed by contractors working on the island, and is a model of TDIC’s best labour practices. It covers 40 hectares, and facilities include shops, Internet booths, recreational parks, laundry facilities, dining areas, and sports and leisure facilities such as a cricket pitch, multi-purpose courts and landscaped gardens.

 

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