September 11, 2012

Muscat: EAL (English as an Additional Language), the outfit engaged in assessing and enhancing language and professional skills, plans to interact with industry specialists and develop its centres in Oman. It aims to enhance awareness among the skilled workforce of the industry. 

To this end, EAL will be holding a seminar and Masterclass on 'Developing a Sustainable Workforce for Future Success', in Muscat on September 17. The seminar will stress on what EAL means to the industry, and discover how assessment and accreditation can help improve business recruitment, retention and productivity. 

Future employees and employers can also learn how accredited qualifications can help position a company as an employer of choice and one where the staff is valued, recognised and has a low attrition rate. One can improve productivity through training and assessment, which positively impact the company's bottom line.

Speaking at a British Parliamentary reception to celebrate EAL's 20 years as the specialist organisation for industry qualifications, United Kingdom's Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning John Hayes commended employers for taking on apprentices and helping boost the economy by upgrading the industry workforce.

Hayes addressed business leaders from some of the UK's largest employers, including BAE Systems, British Airways, Rolls Royce and Airbus, as well as industry bodies, training organisations, and fellow Members of Parliament.

He said: "I want to congratulate English as Additional Language (EAL) on its 20th anniversary. As the leading provider of qualifications for some of the key sectors -" including engineering, manufacturing and building services -" it has achieved much and is helping to build the skilled workforce that the economy needs.-

Following the 20th anniversary celebrations, and in line with continued sector diversification and engagement, EAL has changed its name to Awards Limited to Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited (EMTA).

While they would continue to operate as a specialist awarding organisation for engineering, manufacturing and building services sectors, their expertise and close relationship with industry has allowed them to widen their footprint; the new name will help reflect these continued developments.
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) has also pledged to increase its relations with UK-based businesses to ensure their success in international markets, and encourage overseas companies to look into the UK as their global partner of choice.

© Times of Oman 2012