The Dubai Ethics Resource Center (DERC) has today announced the introduction of an 8-week online course on teaching business ethics. Commencing on 22nd October 2006, the course will qualify Middle Eastern faculty members to conduct business ethics courses within their institutions. In association with US-based University of Maryland, the Jordanian Ethics Association in Amman and supported by global pharmaceutical giant Merck Sharp & Dohme LTD, the online course initiates instructors into the field of business ethics, and qualifies them to teach the subject to undergraduate students as part of a business curriculum.
Dr. Anita Baker, Business & Management Professor at the University of Maryland and DERC Senior Advisor, commented, “The online course is a pioneering initiative for the region. It initially targets faculty members, however it is hoped that the values and ideals gained from this course will soon be delivered in classrooms and will help shape the young generation of business leaders in the region."
The course covers topics such as an introduction to business ethics, emerging business ethics issues, stakeholder relationships and social responsibility, corporate governance, the role of corporate culture, institutionalizing business ethics and business ethics in the global economy.
Mr. Alex Zalami, Executive Director, DERC, explains, "This online program is part of DERC's wider initiative, the Future Leaders Program (FLP), which is designed to promote student understanding in the area of corporate responsibility and business ethics. The FLP also provides students with online material resources, on-campus seminars and workshops, summer internships and long-term international work placements to prepare them for all areas of corporate responsibility in their new careers."
Upon completion of the online course, participants are invited to post-program workshops on "Teaching Business Ethics" to be led by Dr. Baker and conducted in Dubai, UAE and Amman, Jordan. These workshops will enable participants to develop ideas, raise concerns, and further elaborate upon and debate issues relating to the teaching of ethics courses at university level. The week long workshops will also provide participating faculty members with an opportunity to form a network of like minded colleagues for future collaboration and consultation.
About Dubai Ethics Resource Center (DERC):
The Dubai Ethics Resource Center (DERC) was established by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) to foster corporate integrity and to promote the Emirate of Dubai as the region's gateway for global commerce by offering its global business partners an environment of transparency and rule of law. DERC was officially established in October of 2004.
DERC’s operating philosophy advocates coalition building and collaboration with stakeholders in pursuit of common goals. DERC adds value to its work and to that of partner organizations through open exchange of information and knowledge and the efficient use of resources. DERC has a regional focus. The center strives to become the leading ethics center in the region that enhances stakeholder value and provides a platform for active regional contribution to the development of global integrity standards
