Development of human resources is at the core of the state's policy to achieve progress and happiness, H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Qaiwain, declared during a ceremony on Tuesday to honour women graduates of professional diplomas in projects and business development.

''The willingness of businesswomen in the emirate of Umm Al Qaiwain to gain knowledge and expertise is proof of the increasing participation of women in the sustainable development of the UAE,'' H.H. Sheikh Saud affirmed.

H.H. presented shields and certificates to 18 women graduates who completed a 50-day programme, organised by the Umm Al Qaiwain Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The programme focussed on business administration, project management, marketing and consumer attitudes, financial planning and ethics, pricing mechanisms and auditing.

The Ruler also honoured the sponsors of the programme which included the Umm Al Qaiwain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Saud Rashid Al Mu’alla programme for Youth Welfare Projects, the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, the University of Dubai, and the Citigroup.