Innovative Finance
August 1, 2024
Context and Issues
Industry-specific training programs are essential for equipping individuals with targeted skills and knowledge that directly align with the requirements of various sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, and construction. These programs are crucial in addressing the skills gap and increasing employability and career prospects for the workforce. In Qatar, there is a need for high-quality training programs that can meet the specific demands of the local economy and contribute to the nation's development goals.
Solution
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) addresses this need by offering a wide range of industry-specific training programs. Officially established by Emiri Decision No.13 of 2022, UDST is the first national university specializing in applied, technical, and professional education in Qatar. UDST provides programs tailored to Qatar’s economy and workforce, offering over 50 diplomas, bachelor's, and master's degrees in fields such as Engineering Technology and Industrial Trades, Business Management, Computing and Information Technology, Health Sciences, and Continuous Education and Development.
UDST houses five colleges: The College of Business, the College of Computing and Information Technology, the College of Engineering & Technology, the College of Health Sciences, and the College of General Education, in addition to specialized training centers for individuals and companies. The university offers 56 programs, including 18 unique programs in Qatar that are not available elsewhere in the country. The University is known for exceptional student-centered learning, rooted in experiential and applied methods, and taught by industry and academic experts in state-of-the-art facilities.
An example of an effective industry-specific program at UDST is the Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (B.Sc. RT). This four-year degree prepares graduates for licensing as Respiratory Therapists in Qatar. The program is based on the standards set by the Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists (CSRT) and EQual Accreditation Canada, integrating theory, laboratory skills, high-fidelity simulation, and extensive clinical experiences. Graduates are prepared to work in various settings, including hospitals, community health settings, educational institutions, long-term care facilities, clinics, home care, and private practice. Students completing this program may choose to apply to write CSRT certification exams, which provide an internationally recognized credential, enhancing their career prospects and professional mobility.
Impact
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) significantly impacts Qatar's workforce and economy through its specialized, industry-specific training programs. As Qatar’s leading Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution and the country’s official UNEVOC center, UDST offers 70 programs aligned with key industries, ensuring graduates possess relevant skills to meet market demands. These tailored programs foster economic growth and workforce development by addressing the local economy's specific needs. UDST’s commitment to applied education, exemplified by advanced facilities like AI laboratories and high-simulation training centers, prepares students for the evolving technological landscape. The success of UDST graduates in international competitions and industry projects emphasizes the effectiveness of its training programs, which continually adapt to market demands and introduce new programs in emerging fields, solidifying UDST's role in driving socio-economic development in Qatar.