AASTMT and ESCWA Join Forces to Empower Arab Youth and Bridge Skills Gaps

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) welcomed a delegation from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) on December 3, 2023, at the Smart Village branch. Ms. Dr. Mona Fattah Wajdi and Ms. Clara Moussa from ESCWA met with a distinguished group from AASTMT, including Professor Dr. Yasser Al-Sonbati, Vice President for Education and Student Affairs, Professor Dr. Amira Mustafa Senbel, Dean of the College of Pharmacy (Abu Qir branch), Professor Dr. Mona Fouad, Dean of the College of Engineering (Smart Village branch), and other leadership representatives.

The key focus of the meeting was to explore avenues for collaboration in equipping Arab youth with the skills needed to thrive in today's ever-evolving job market. With youth unemployment remaining a pressing challenge in the region, both ESCWA and AASTMT recognized the crucial role of education and training in empowering young people and fostering social justice.

The discussion centered around:

• Developing tailored training programs in line with current and future labour market demands.

• Promoting equal opportunities and access to quality education for all young people, regardless of background or gender.

• Leveraging AASTMT's expertise in various fields, including science, technology, maritime transport, and pharmacy, to offer relevant training opportunities for youth.

• Harnessing innovation and technology to bridge skills gaps and enhance employability of young graduates.

This collaborative effort between ESCWA and AASTMT holds immense potential to empower Arab youth, equip them with essential skills, and pave the way for a brighter future. By prioritizing education, innovation, and equal opportunities, we can unlock the full potential of the Arab world's young population and drive sustainable development across the region.

Further Insights:

• While specific details about the planned joint programs or initiatives are not yet available, this visit marks a significant step towards a fruitful partnership between two key players in the field of youth development and economic empowerment.

• AASTMT's strong focus on practical skills and industry-relevant training, combined with ESCWA's vast experience in economic and social development, can result in ** impactful programs that address the needs of both young people and employers.**

• It is also worth noting that the Smart Village branch's emphasis on cutting-edge technology and innovation bodes well for the development of future-proof training programs that prepare young people for the jobs of tomorrow.

With the combined efforts of institutions like ESCWA and AASTMT, we can nurture a generation of empowered, skilled, and globally competitive Arab youth who can contribute meaningfully to the region's progress and prosperity.