By Hani Al-Awadh
DUBAI, June 25 (KUNA) -- The Arab Organization for Social Responsibility has granted its Golden Award to Kuwait Oil Company (OIC) in appreciation for the company's chain of initiatives in Kuwait, namely its programs to solidify patriotism and encourage youth to pursue higher education.
KOC received its trophy at a ceremony held by the organization here, Tuesday night. The ceremony was attended by the General Consul of the State of Kuwait in Dubai, Dhiab Al-Rashidi, and a number of consuls representing Arab and GCC states.
The Arab organization has chosen KOC for this honoring in view of its initiatives in the area of social responsibility, affirmed KOC Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) for Administrative and Financial Affairs Saad Al-Azmi, who received the shield on behalf of the company.
Al-Azmi said the special KOC department for social services granted a financial award to citizens for the best decoration of their houses during Kuwait's National Days earlier this year, with aim of enhancing patriotic sentiments and expression of such sentiments among nationals. It had also produced a television program of student competitions in the field of oil and environment knowledge and awareness.
Moreover, KOC grants higher study scholarships abroad annually. Up to 30 students, including 15 whose parents serve in the oil sector, are given this privilege.
The Arab Organization for Social Responsibility also honored the Arab Union for the Youth and the Environment, a body affiliated to the Arab League, during last night's ceremony in Dubai. Dr. Nasser Al-Masri, a board member, said the federation earned the trophy due to 30 years of hard work in service of youth in 22 member countries of the Arab League.
Al-Masri, a Kuwaiti citizen, said he considered the award an honoring for the State of Kuwait, as he currently serves as union chairman and chief of the federation Gulf affairs branch.
Last night's ceremony began with a statement by the Chairman of the Arab Organization for Social Responsibility, Pierre Mukarzel, followed by distribution of awards of Sheikh Nasser Bin Abdulaziz Al-Manea; an Award granted by Saudi Arabia for encouraging ideas that serve education in the Arab world.
The Lebanon-based Arab Organization for Social Responsibility has a bureau in Dubai.(end) hny.rk