Amman Arab University (AAU): Field Visit to Aqaba Digital Hub to Enhance Alignment of Academic Programs with the Labor Market
In line with the vision of the Collage of Information Technology at Amman Arab University to enhance the alignment of academic programs with the labor market, Dr. Rami Sihwail, Dean of the Collage of Information Technology, and Dr. Kamal Alieyan, Assistant Dean, participated in a field visit to Aqaba Digital Hub. The visit was org.anized by the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission, under the guidance of Professor Dr. Thafer Al-Sarairah, Chairman of the Board, and included the participation of deans of faculties of information technology and representatives of Jordanian public and private universities. Also present were the Vice Chairman of the Commission, Professor Dr. Saad Bani Mohammed, and the Assistant Chairman of the Commission, Professor Dr. Fidaa Al-Tamimi.
In this regard, Dr. Sihwail emphasized that this visit was part of the efforts of the Collage of Information Technology at Amman Arab University to enhance cooperation with national technology sectors and develop academic programs that align with labor market demands. He noted that the visit also falls within the framework of the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission's efforts to ensure that higher education outcomes are aligned with the needs of the digital economy and to strengthen the practical aspects and skills in the fields of information technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and modern digital programs. Dr. Sihwail highlighted the importance of these meetings held at the level of Jordanian public and private universities, pointing to the vital role of cooperation between universities and student employment through training programs and applied projects that enhance their readiness for the digital labor market.
For his part, Dr. Saad Bani Mohammed indicated that the visit aims to connect Jordanian universities with the Aqaba Digital City to benefit from its advanced infrastructure, develop academic programs according to the latest international standards, and activate partnerships between the academic and technical sectors to increase the competitiveness of graduates. The visit began with an official meeting at Aqaba University of Technology, where discussions focused on developing curricula, enhancing practical training for students, and expanding opportunities for applied projects. This was followed by a tour of the Digital City facilities, including data centers, digital platforms, and entrepreneurial projects. Presentations were given on opportunities for collaboration in training, joint study programs, and applied projects. Professor Fidaa Al-Tamimi, Assistant Head of the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission, emphasized that the city's modern capabilities represent a significant opportunity to enhance students' practical skills in accordance with international best practices. At the conclusion of the visit, the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission commended the participation and positive engagement of Jordanian universities, affirming that this initiative aligns with its national strategy to elevate the quality of higher education. This is achieved by fostering modern technological partnerships and empowering universities to leverage advanced digital experiences, thereby contributing to the development of academic programs and honing students' skills in preparation for the job market. It is worth noting that this participation reflects the keenness of Amman Arab University to enhance its presence in scientific and professional events, support students to develop their practical skills, and expand the horizons of cooperation with national technical sectors, in a way that contributes to preparing a generation of distinguished graduates capable of facing the challenges of the digital labor market, in line with the national strategy to improve the quality of higher education and enhance academic and technical partnerships.
