Sharjah Public Works Department has launched a specialised workshop blending concrete crafting with decoupage art, targeting female staff during Emirati Women's Month to foster creativity, innovation and practical skills development within the workplace.
When the Sharjah Public Works Department opened its doors for a hands-on workshop in concrete crafting and decoupage, it was not just another training session-it was a deliberate move to put creative power directly into the hands of its female employees. The initiative, timed for Emirati Women's Month, signals a clear intent: practical skills and artistic innovation are now firmly on the agenda for women in Sharjah's public sector.
Participants were immersed in the full process, from mixing raw concrete to shaping it in diverse moulds, before transforming the finished pieces with decoupage techniques. The result? Unique, modern artefacts that blend industrial material with personal artistic flair-each one a testament to the untapped potential within the department's workforce.
Concrete Meets Creativity in the Workplace
The workshop was not a token gesture. According to Aisha Bajash from the Public Relations Department, the event was designed to actively promote creativity and innovation among staff. By focusing on hands-on artistic skills, the department is challenging the traditional boundaries of public-sector roles and encouraging employees to explore new forms of self-expression and problem-solving.
Attendance was strong, with a notable turnout from employees already interested in crafts and design. The session provided a rare opportunity for staff to experiment with materials and techniques outside their usual professional remit, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment where ideas could be shared and skills developed.
Why This Matters for Sharjah's Public Sector
Sharjah Public Works Department's decision to invest in creative workshops for women is more than a nod to Emirati Women's Month. It is a strategic move to cultivate a culture of innovation and adaptability within the government workforce. By equipping employees with practical, creative skills, the department is laying the groundwork for a more dynamic and resilient public sector-one that values both technical proficiency and artistic thinking.
While the immediate outcome is a collection of distinctive concrete artworks, the longer-term impact is likely to be felt in the way staff approach challenges and contribute to the department's evolving mission. This is not about decoration for its own sake; it is about embedding creativity as a core competency in public service. If other government bodies are paying attention, they would do well to recognise that empowering women with real, hands-on skills is not just good optics-it is a practical investment in the future of the city.
