AUK Salutes Laborers on their Special Day

As part of world-wide International Labor Day Celebrations, the American University of Kuwait (AUK) held its Appreciation Activity Day for its employees. International Labor Day is a day that takes place on the first of May each year, celebrating the many contributions to society made by laborers and honoring their dignity.

The event held at AUK brought together the housekeeping, security, maintenance, gardening, landscaping, and office facilitation staff in appreciation of their ongoing support all year round. The event started with a warm welcome note by AUK Interim President Dr., Nizar Hamzeh, who aptly noted of the AUK labor support staff, "without whom AUK cannot function". Dr. Hamzeh also stressed the importance of honoring AUK's working men and women on their special day saying, "We salute you. Today we are at your service".

Opening words were also given by Ms. Shirley Fox, Administrative Programs Officer, who greeted the support staff and stressed that "today we celebrate your struggles, your sacrifices, your achievements for yourself and all you have done for your family". Ms. Faten Al-Kadiri from Human Resources translated the welcome note in Arabic and Mr. Joy John from campus services translated it in Hindi. The program included an awards ceremony including honoring employees who have been with AUK for 5 years, a lunch buffet served by members of the President's Cabinet, and entertainment. Employees dressed up and enjoyed the fun atmosphere away from the daily job routine and official uniforms.

International Labor Day also includes "job swap" where AUK faculty and staff volunteer to serve in labor positions around campus. Teams of security guards, cleaners, and housekeepers were formed highlighting the importance of these professions. Some other teams handled the lunch setup and cleanup, greeted and helped seat individuals as they arrived, and served food and drinks.

A number of AUK departments and clubs contributed to the event. Funds were raised by the community to support the event. Students through the Office of Student Life along with one AUK Community Club raised funds for gift bags with essential staple items and donated clothes & shoes. The Bookstore gave away KD 100 worth gift vouchers. In addition, 2 mobile phones & 2 Body Shop gift sets were contributed. Comedy videos, raffle draw, ethnic music from all backgrounds; Ethiopian, Tamil, Egyptian and, Hindi kept the team smiling all afternoon.

Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 13th May 2013

Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2013