On Monday 23 June An-Najah National University held the annual An-Najah Recruitment Day 2014. The event was held under the patronage of the Acting President of An-Najah, Professor Maher Natsheh and in partnership with the Palestine Development and Investment Ltd. (PADICO), and more than 30 other companies from different sectors and governorates.

Delivering his speech, Prof. Natsheh highlighted that the University has, over the past years, prepared its alumni to become capable cadres to compete in the labour market. This has been achieved by providing the necessary skills and knowledge required for the local and international labour market.

He said that “The University has made some changes:  modifying the curricula to make them fit with the labour market needs; applying modern techniques in teaching methods, which help students improve their communication and research skills to become able to think effectively and make decisions. In addition, we have intensified and focused our methods of practical training to encourage creativity and partnerships with the private sector.”

Prof. Natsheh also pointed out that every year the University evaluates the Ministry of Higher Education accredited programmes and provides new programmes, that meet the local market’s needs. He further added that, this event aims to strengthen partnerships between the University and public and private sectors, providing job opportunities for graduates, obtaining feedback on the quality of graduates An-Najah produces through their work with the companies and institutions.

Dr. Fatayer stated that this recruitment day aims to broker the link between the University and student on the one hand, and between the student and labour market on the other. He added that: “This is the second time An-Najah has organised such an event. We hope our partners, companies’ and institutions’ representatives can provide our ambitious youth with employment opportunities. We also express our pride of our students and their ability to competitive in the labour market.”

Mr. Al-Sa’eedi in reviewing his “Success Story” highlighted the academic stages he went through and the ups and downs in his professional career. Concluding his speech with some tips to his fellow students on employment opportunities. Mr. Al- Sa’eedi is in An-Najah’s first class grade of graduates.

Mrs. Darweesh said that PADICO is proud of its partnership with An-Najah. This partnership aims at enhancing students’ competencies and providing them with the professional skills that qualify them to enter the labour market. She stressed that students should look for internship and voluntary work opportunities during their study, and continue to do so up until their graduation. This way, they become qualified and skilled candidates to compete for jobs.

Finally, Prof. Natsheh honoured and thanked Mr. Al-Sa’eedi and Mrs. Darweesh for their role in making the event a success. Dr. Fatayer, in turn, gave Prof. Natsheh commemorative plaque in recognition of his effort and tender. The guests also browsed the various displays from the participant institutions and companies.

Notes:

-       The one day event was held at the Korean Institute, New Campus.

-       The opening ceremony  was attended by Professor Maher Natsheh, Acting President of An-Najah; Dr. Jawad Fatayer, Director of Alumni Affairs and Recruitment Unit at An-Najah; Mrs. Hiba Darweesh, representing PADICO CEO Mr. Sameer Halilap; Mr. Sami Al-Sa’eedi, General Manager of Arab Islamic Bank; and a number of representatives of different University departments, civil society institutions, companies and students.

-       The event opened with recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem. Dr. Rafe Daraghmeh, Deputy Director of An-Najah Alumni Affairs and Recruitment Unit, moderated the event.

-       The event included performances by the Choir of the Deanship of Student Affairs, led by Mr. Ahmad Al-Ahmad.