College of Engineering Hosts Youth Empowerment Seminar for Private Sector Integration in Cooperation with Fawasil Foundation
The Continuing Education Hall at the College of Engineering, University of Samarra, hosted a specialized awareness seminar titled “Today’s Skills… Tomorrow’s Opportunities.” The session was presented by Engineer Yasser Mutlaq Abdullah, President of the Fawasil Foundation for Research and Studies, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance professional awareness and bridge the gap between academic outcomes and practical reality.
The presenter focused on breaking prevailing stereotypes that limit graduates’ aspirations to government employment only. He highlighted the private sector as the primary engine for economic development and the broadest arena for absorbing engineering talent.
In a related context, the lecturer reviewed a package of core skills required by the modern labor market. He emphasized the importance of early professional preparation—starting from the first university stages—to ensure that engineering specializations align with the evolving needs of the field.
The seminar concluded by affirming that these efforts fall within the Fawasil Foundation’s vision, which aims to instill a culture of initiative and reliance on skill and efficiency. This approach ensures narrowing the gap between university education and production requirements.
The seminar was attended by the Dean of the College, the Assistant Dean for Scientific Affairs, the Coordinator of the Electromechanical Engineering Department, and a group of final-year students from various scientific departments. The event witnessed in-depth discussions on the necessity of reshaping student awareness regarding the Iraqi labor market.
The session saw wide interaction from the attendees, who enriched the discussion with inquiries about mechanisms for integrating into entrepreneurial projects. This reflected the initiative’s success in opening new horizons for the young generation of engineers and expanding their future career options.
It is worth noting that this event was held under the generous patronage of Prime Minister Engineer Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani, with support from the Supreme Council for Youth and the NGO Directorate. It is part of the “Youth Empowerment for Private Sector Engagement” project, stemming from the National Initiative for Youth Development.
