Coronavirus: Sharjah public sector workers granted paid leave to volunteer

The move is aimed at helping those in need as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic

A woman carries bags of groceries while wearing a face mask in Sharjah. Antonie Robertson / The National

Public sector employees in Sharjah will be allowed to take paid leave to undertake volunteer work, officials have said.

The announcement came following a decision by Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of the emirate.

Between March and May this year, 486 government employees in Sharjah spent more than 15,000 hours volunteering at 37 separate initiatives.

The opportunities were organised by the Sharjah Volunteer Centre and the emirate’s Volunteering Committee.

A further 1,900 people have also registered with officials to volunteer their time.

“During a crisis like Covid-19, the need for support by community members specialising in certain areas becomes all the more significant,” said Afaf Al Marri, head of social services in Sharjah.

“It’s also important to educate the public and encourage them to participate actively by providing them with opportunities.”