Qatar University’s College of Engineering (QU-CENG) has carried out the second edition of the  pilot “Nasmou” program in collaboration with Silatech and Occidental Petroleum Qatar (Oxy Qatar).

40 female engineering students participated in the program, which ran September 7-10; the program follows the success of the first edition held in February that engaged 40 male students. The specially-designed personal training program is delivered by the Common Purpose Charitable Trust, a UK-based organization that runs leadership development programs around the world.

In the program, national students at CENG are equipped with the necessary skills, competencies and mindset to ensure their transition into the workplace, and help them to better channel their emotions and responses, as well as overcome cultural boundaries and succeed in a multicultural environment.

The 4-day workshop provided the female students with opportunities to explore out-of-the-classroom real-life experiences in the workplace. They attended orientation sessions delivered by senior executives from Oxy Qatar, who mentored them on strategic techniques and exercises.

On completion of the program, selected students will be offered an internship opportunity at Oxy Qatar to further strengthen and apply the skills they gained during the workshop.

Commenting on the program, CENG Dean Dr Rashid Alammari said: “It serves to highlight the stimulating teaching/learning environment at CENG and continuous efforts by the college to promote active learning initiatives that take students beyond the classroom into the real world of work. Participating in a program such as this motivates our students towards academic excellence and enhances their competitiveness in the fast-changing labor market. It also spotlights QU’s ongoing mission to shape future leaders and professionals who will actively contribute to the country’s stated ambitions towards a knowledge-based economy.”

Silatech Qatar Country Operations Manager Sheikha Alanoud bint Hamad Al-Thani said: “The Nasmou program is designed to complement the academic rigor of a university education with a focus on the more intangible “soft skills” that help to ease the transition from school to work. This fits well with Silatech’s mission to help young people prepare for the workplace. Nasmou also exemplifies the type of coordination between the private sector, academia and nonprofit institutions that is necessary to produce the type of high-quality graduates which can meet the demands of Qatar’s economy.”