Goal 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
8.4.1 Proportion of students with work placements
Work placements at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) are firmly rooted in the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) - Decent Work and Economic Growth. AASTMT recognizes the importance of preparing its students for the competitive job market and has thus placed a strong emphasis on offering practical experience through internships and work placements. These opportunities not only foster skill development but also promote the concept of decent work by ensuring students gain hands-on experience in a professional setting, significantly enhancing their employability and prospects of securing meaningful employment upon graduation.
Students taking work placements
AASTMT actively collaborates with a diverse array of industries, thereby playing a crucial role in fostering economic growth by connecting its students with potential employers. By facilitating work placements, AASTMT contributes directly to the growth of local and national economies, acting as a bridge between academia and the job market. This dedication to aligning education with the demands of the workforce benefits not only individual students but also serves the broader objective of SDG 8, which seeks to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Moreover, AASTMT's approach to work placements extends beyond the conventional boundaries of employment opportunities. It extends its influence into entrepreneurship and innovation, which are pivotal components of SDG 8. AASTMT champions programs such as entrepreneurship incubators and business development support, actively encouraging students not only to seek employment but also to become job creators and innovators in their own right. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, AASTMT not only propels economic growth but also addresses the overarching goal of ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and equitable economic opportunities for all, as stipulated by SDG 8.
The Career Development Center (CDC) at AASTMT plays a central role in guiding students toward successful career paths and connecting them with valuable work placements and job opportunities. The CDC functions as a crucial link between the academic realm and the professional world, offering services such as career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and networking events. Moreover, the CDC leverages the invaluable experience of AASTMT's alumni, who have successfully navigated the job market, to provide students with practical insights and advice, empowering them to make informed career decisions.
AASTMT's alumni networks also serve as influential contributors to the career development of current students. These networks are rich resources for students seeking guidance, mentorship, and internship opportunities. AASTMT alumni often serve as inspirational figures, sharing their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs, which can serve as a wellspring of inspiration and guidance for current students as they prepare to embark on their own careers. The close relationship between alumni and the current student body fosters a sense of community and ensures that valuable industry knowledge and connections are passed down from one generation of students to the next.
To further enhance students' readiness for the workforce, AASTMT has implemented mandatory training and experiential learning programs as a prerequisite for graduation. This proactive approach equips students with practical skills, real-world work experience, and a profound understanding of their chosen fields. These mandatory training programs are thoughtfully designed to align with the evolving needs of industries, ensuring that AASTMT graduates not only excel academically but also possess the practical knowledge and competencies required for success in their chosen careers. By making training an integral component of the educational experience, AASTMT reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) - Decent Work and Economic Growth, by producing highly skilled and job-ready graduates who are poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities and industries alike.