Gulf Research MeetingThe workshop examines issues surrounding the theory and practice of Human Resource Development (HRD) with specific reference to the Gulf region. This is an important subject for a number of reasons. For example, localisation/nationalisation initiatives (such as Emiratisation, Saudisation and Omanisation) are now exerting a profound effect on a variety of HR-related practices throughout the region as organisations in both the public and private sectors seek to balance the requirements of national laws and dictates with local skills shortages in labour markets. Similarly, the gradual influx of Western-emanating HR theories and practices into the Gulf region by means of both foreign-owned companies and Western-educated nationals raises many questions about the relevance of these theories and practices to this culturally diverse region; as such, it is intended that the workshop will unearth and examine some of the inevitable tensions and perhaps conflicts that arise when formalised strategically-focused HRD practices are implemented in various organisational sectors in the Gulf region.
3 DAYS / 10 Workshops
MORE THAN 200 ACADEMIC PAPERS
In complementing the findings of research which has reported a general trend towards the convergence of HRD, Human Resource Management (HRM), and Organisational Change and Development (OCD), the workshop organisers are keen to stimulate debate which explores a wide range of HR-related topics with reference to the Gulf region. These topics may include, for example, leadership and knowledge sharing, mentoring, management development, career management, job security, diversity management, localisation/nationalisation policies and practice, recruitment and selection, payment and reward, and managing organisational change. The workshop organisers particularly welcome the submission of critically focused papers, including case studies and conceptually-driven contributions which, with specific reference to the Gulf region, offer insights into a) some of the defining features of HR as it is currently practised, b) the challenges facing HR practitioners and c) how existing HR theory and practice, emanating from around the world, may be developed in order to improve its relevance and applicability to the Gulf region
