ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Rwanga Foundation has launched a technical and vocational education and training program aimed at equipping university students with skills needed in the labor market, starting with the University of Kurdistan - Hewler (UKH).
The initiative, which was first introduced in April for the general public, has now been expanded to universities for the first time. The program is being implemented in partnership with UKH and the Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs.
The training covers five fields currently in high demand, including solar energy, graphic design, digital marketing, mobile phone repair, and automotive mechanics.
Founded in 2013 by Idris Nechirvan Barzani, the Rwanga Foundation is an NGO focused on youth empowerment, education, and environmental sustainability in the Kurdistan Region.
“This program was designed based on the vision and recommendations of Idris Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Rwanga Foundation,” Ranjdar Kamaran, General Consultant at Rwanga Foundation told Rudaw’s Dlnya Rahman on Sunday. “It encompasses five main subjects currently in high demand in the labor market: solar energy, graphic design, digital marketing, mobile phone repair, and automotive mechanics.”
A total of 125 students will participate in the program, with each course requiring 45 days of training to complete.
UKH students welcomed the opportunity to gain additional practical skills alongside their academic studies.
“I am a software student at the UKH. When I heard about this course, I registered for graphic design,” said Resa Talat, a UKH student. “I hope to be accepted so I can participate and benefit from the training.”
The courses will be delivered by both local and international trainers, according to UKH officials, with the aim of improving students’ professional skills and confidence.
“These courses are organized by both local and international trainers. They aim to help students develop their skills in these fields and gain professional confidence,” said Zana Ibrahim, President of UKH.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs praised the initiative, saying it represents an important step toward integrating vocational education with higher education.
“Academicizing vocational training is a vital step, and we commend this effort, especially with 300 university students applying,” said Zakiya Salih, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs. “I hope this program will be implemented in other universities as well.”
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