A S U

Prof. Ghada Farouk, Vice President of Ain Shams University for Community Service and Environmental Development, affirmed that the STEP UP project was launched in response to the state's directives to bridge the gap between university education outcomes and labor market needs. This is achieved by offering flexible supplementary pathways and micro-certificates that equip students and graduates with the skills required in various sectors.

During an interview with Nile News Channel, she explained that the university conducted a labor market needs assessment and analyzed job postings to identify the most in-demand skills. This revealed gaps in several disciplines, particularly within theoretical faculties. Consequently, the university designed intensive training programs that allow students to build a clear career path without waiting for updates to traditional academic regulations.

She added that the supplementary tracks are characterized by their flexibility, allowing students to enroll during academic breaks. These tracks include short programs delivered by experts and specialists in collaboration with institutions and companies from various sectors, ensuring the acquisition of practical skills that meet the demands of the job market.

She noted that the project launched with seven main tracks, including digital media, financial technology (FinTech), legal innovation and digital legal research, science and mathematics teacher training in English, and international teacher preparation, in addition to other tracks targeting future-oriented fields. She emphasized the possibility of adding new tracks based on market needs.

The university's vice president emphasized that the project targets not only Ain Shams University students but also graduates and those seeking to develop or change their career paths, thereby enhancing employment opportunities and reinforcing the concept of lifelong learning.

She explained that approximately 60% of the program content relies on practical training within partner institutions and companies, enabling trainees to gain real-world professional experience before graduation. She noted that digital transformation and artificial intelligence are integral components of all training tracks.

She added that the university collaborates with several industrial institutions and labor market partners in designing and implementing training programs to ensure their alignment with actual employment needs. She noted that all participants will be registered at the ASU Career Center, and the program will conclude with a job fair providing direct networking opportunities with employers.

Dr. Ghada Farouk concluded by emphasizing that the STEP UP project is based on continuous development. Its impact will be measured by monitoring graduate employment and surveying employers and trainees, allowing for the updating of training tracks and the addition of new specializations that meet the needs of the local, regional, and international labor markets.