AL AIN // With shortages both of suitable jobs and opportunities to acquire skills, women in Al Ain can have a hard time making their way into the workplace. But a scheme launched yesterday aims to smooth that path.
The Ain al Mustaqbal ("looking to the future") project promises to work with families to help address any concerns they have about women working, as well as provide pre-employment training.
It will also try to persuade public and private employers to expand their operations to Al Ain.
There were some promising signs yesterday as the project, which is being run by the Abu Dhabi Tawteen Council in partnership with the Abu Dhabi University Knowledge Group and the Emirates Foundation's Tawteen programme, was launched with a forum at the Rotana hotel.
By the end of the event, not only had a dozen women secured job offers, but several employers had pledged to create scores more suitable positions for women from the area.
Etihad Airways said it would provide 70 positions for women from Al Ain, with First Gulf Bank providing another 11.
There were also promises by Al Futaim Group to provide eight jobs, and by Rotana to create 10 positions. New Medical Centre and Horizon Flight Academy both pledged one job each.
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Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Daniel Akpeyi Defenders: Olaoluwa Aina, Abdullahi Shehu, Chidozie Awaziem, William Ekong, Leon Balogun, Kenneth Omeruo, Jamilu Collins, Semi Ajayi Midfielders: John Obi Mikel, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, John Ogu Forwards: Ahmed Musa, Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, Henry Onyekuru, Odion Ighalo, Alexander Iwobi, Samuel Kalu, Paul Onuachu, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze
On Standby: Theophilus Afelokhai, Bryan Idowu, Ikouwem Utin, Mikel Agu, Junior Ajayi, Valentine Ozornwafor
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Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
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THREE POSSIBLE REPLACEMENTS
Khalfan Mubarak
The Al Jazira playmaker has for some time been tipped for stardom within UAE football, with Quique Sanchez Flores, his former manager at Al Ahli, once labelling him a “genius”. He was only 17. Now 23, Mubarak has developed into a crafty supplier of chances, evidenced by his seven assists in six league matches this season. Still to display his class at international level, though.
Rayan Yaslam
The Al Ain attacking midfielder has become a regular starter for his club in the past 15 months. Yaslam, 23, is a tidy and intelligent player, technically proficient with an eye for opening up defences. Developed while alongside Abdulrahman in the Al Ain first-team and has progressed well since manager Zoran Mamic’s arrival. However, made his UAE debut only last December.
Ismail Matar
The Al Wahda forward is revered by teammates and a key contributor to the squad. At 35, his best days are behind him, but Matar is incredibly experienced and an example to his colleagues. His ability to cope with tournament football is a concern, though, despite Matar beginning the season well. Not a like-for-like replacement, although the system could be adjusted to suit.
TWISTERS
Director: Lee Isaac Chung
Starring: Glen Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Anthony Ramos
