Date: June 1, 2023
In cooperation with its strategic partners
The Zubair Enterprises Development Centre (Zubair EDC) recently participated in the ” MEC Souq ” organised by the Middle East College. The event was attended by several professors, students and those interested in entrepreneurship along with officials from Zubair EDC including Rawan Al Kiyumi, Business Analyst, and Ali Shaker, Head of Business Development and Partnerships.
Rawan Al Kiyoumi presented a working paper on behalf of Zubair EDC, wherein she elucidated the services provided by Zubair EDC and the concept of entrepreneurship. She noted, “We are delighted to participate in the ” MEC Souq ” forum, as we aim to shed light on the concept of entrepreneurship and introduce the public to the pioneering role and achievements of Zubair EDC in spreading the culture of entrepreneurship in the Sultanate.”
“Participation in such events comes within the framework of cooperation with Zubair EDC’s strategic partners within the public, private and academic sectors. We hope to continue spreading a robust entrepreneurship culture, which will in turn contribute to an increase in the number of Small and Medium Enterprises that ties in one of the most significant goals of Oman Vision 2040 – economic diversification. We thank the Middle East College for organising such events that introduce students and graduates to entrepreneurship because they are the future of growth within the Sultanate of Oman”, she added.
Speaking on the occasion, Ali Shaker, Head of the Business Development and Partnerships at the Zubair EDC, presented his experience in the field of business development on how to build and develop emerging enterprises, as he stressed the need for a clear vision and a strong strategy to achieve success in business. He also stressed the importance of building strong partnerships and clear strategies with relevant authorities through effective communication and cooperation to achieve opportunities for success and growth. He went on to highlight the importance of marketing and digital marketing for businesses. The session witnessed great interaction by the audience and was followed by a Q&A session and meet & greet with participants.
Ruqayyah Rashid Al Hatimi, representative of the Office of Professional Services and Entrepreneurship at the Middle East College said, “We are delighted with the distinguished participation of Zubair EDC in the ‘MEC Souq’, which undoubtedly contributed to educating students and attendees about the services provided by the Centre to its members, in addition to encouraging graduates to start thinking about entrepreneurship instead of waiting for a job.”
Additionally, the ‘Souq’ featured various programmes and activities from across the public and private sectors. The forum hosted two exhibitions, the first of which featured 20 students, graduates of several colleges and universities in the Sultanate who own start-ups. The second exhibition showcased over 20 students from the Middle East College highlighting their start-up projects and products to the visitors.
Zubair EDC represents one of the most important initiatives emanating from the strategic vision realised by The Zubair Corporation for its social responsibility towards Omani society. This reflects the Corporation’s belief in the importance of Small & Medium Enterprises to advance the growth of a sustainable and social economy.
The Middle East College is an institution under the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation. More than 4,500 students from Oman and abroad study in it, as it offers a variety of programmes across many disciplines, including engineering, business, technology, and logistics management. It has affiliated with Coventry University in the UK and Breda University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands.