KUWAIT: Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz) successfully concluded its participation in the Watheefti career fair, which took place at The Arena Kuwait in 360 Mall for three days from 5 to 7 January. Held under the patronage of Public Authority of Manpower, the career fair which attracted more than 20,000 visitors served as an ideal platform to showcase Markaz as one of the Kuwaiti companies that attracts national talents to pursue careers in the private sector.

Markaz's sponsorship falls in line with the 'human capacity building' pillar of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy and the company's commitment to further promote developing local talent and future leaders. Markaz's pavilion in the exhibition was staffed by its HR team, who engaged seriously with more experienced job seekers as well as to increase awareness of its Markaz Graduate Development Program (MGDP) among fresh graduates.  Launched in 2017, the one-year program offers young Kuwaiti graduates the opportunity to gain work experience across the company's Investment Banking, Asset Management, Real Estate Investment, Wealth Management and Research departments. In addition, it provides the opportunity for participants to consistently engage with the finance professionals and executive management within Markaz. This first-hand experience is essential for the trainees to acquire real insights on how businesses operate on daily basis.

Commenting on Markaz's participation in the event, Ahmad Yaqoub Ali, Assistant Vice President, Human Resources, Markaz, said: "We are proud at Markaz to serve as one of the primary sponsors of the Watheefti career fair, which demonstrates our commitment to be present in forums that offer the opportunity to attract the national youth cadres interested in the financial sector in Kuwait. We are keen on developing their capabilities and skills throughout a range of programs and trainings."

He added: "We also make sure that we provide fresh graduates with essential tools to kick-start a successful professional life throughout Markaz Graduate Development Program (MGDP). The program assists them to set the foundation for their career path in the financial sector by acquiring valuable and marketable skills in a supportive and vibrant work environment that enhances their capabilities."

It is worth noting that Markaz Graduate Development Program (MGDP) is currently accepting applications from Kuwaiti graduates, who are fluent in both Arabic and English languages and have obtained a business-related degree from an accredited university, to participate in the upcoming batch, scheduled to start by March. Candidates shall be qualified for the program after completing several qualifying tests and interviews to assess their talents and capabilities.