Group holds workshops for labourers in Dubai

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Group holds workshops for labourers in Dubai A Pakistani welfare organisation has been counselling labourers in Dubai after seeing a “shocking” number of criminal cases involving low-paid workers. Socho Pakistan – which in Urdu means ‘Think Pakistan’ – has been educating workers in labour camps on UAE laws and providing meals and counselling sessions. Several cases have been reported where Pakistani workers have been involved in serious crimes, such as a gang of three men who were accused of killing two security guards earlier this year and a construction worker who was convicted of raping a mum in her home. One of the founders of Socho Pakistan, Kamran Ahmed, told 7DAYS that a “majority of the crime cases involve Pakistani labourers” and that this is “damaging the country’s reputation”. He said: “The workers carry the Pakistani flag with them. They represent our country. Many of the crime cases include Pakistani labourers and it’s shocking. We obviously want all Pakistani expats living in the UAE to give a good impression of Pakistan. So, we decided to go and talk to these workers and give them any kind of help they need. “We did provide them with meals during Ramadan, but we also educate them. We gave them lessons on pedestrian crossings, which can help them cross the roads safely. We also talk about how important it is to follow the laws. “From what I’ve seen, just spending time and talking with the workers can bring a huge difference in their behaviour. They are away from their families and they aren’t earning that much, giving them that emotional support and a bit of guidance can bring change.” Socho Pakistan was founded about seven months ago and has almost 600 active members that take part in food drives in labour camps. However, it’s not just the workers the group aims to help. One of the members, Maqsood Shahid, said that young Pakistani expats and other businessmen can also benefit from the organisation. Shahid said: “People can network through the group. It helps bring together all of the Pakistani expats and they can seek assistance from each other. “If a new businessman who’s just moved to Dubai needs help establishing his business, he can come to one of our meetings.” sarwat@7days.ae Read the original story at: Group holds workshops for labourers in Dubai