The Chemistry Department at the University of Petra has held its first meeting with the “Industry Partners Committee” as part of a strategic initiative to align academic education with labor market needs. The aim is to create a forward-looking vision for the bachelor’s program in line with the recommendations of the German Accreditation Agency ASIIN.
اضافة اعلان
The meeting resulted in an agreement to develop a “Strategic Improvement Plan” for the program, which includes revising the curriculum, enhancing training programs, and integrating labor market requirements throughout the educational journey.
The discussion, sponsored by Professor Mahmoud Al-Salman, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, emphasized the importance of building strong, genuine bridges between academia and industry.
Dr. Mohammad Bassam Al-Bitar, General Manager of Alpha Chemical Industries, remarked:
"I used to think that academia and industry were two parallel lines, but after forty years of experience in both fields, I’ve come to realize that they do meet. They are not separate worlds."
He called for updating curricula and connecting them with real-world applications by hosting lectures from private sector experts.
Eng. Raed Obaidi, an industrial consultant and member of the Chemical Engineering Division Council, highlighted the real challenges students face when seeking internship opportunities. He urged the adoption of comprehensive guidance programs to prepare students for job interviews, CV writing, and the development of soft skills.
Eng. Mahmoud Hammoudeh, Production Manager at Thermolab, noted that "true creativity begins within the university." He emphasized the need to diversify teaching methods and transform students from passive recipients into active participants in the knowledge-building process.
Mohammad Abu Shanab, Board Member at Al-Shaker Scientific and Medical Supplies, called on the department to be a “true bridge between the university and industry,” suggesting that real industrial challenges be turned into student research projects and practical applications.
Adnan Abu Rashed, Director of Future Pulse Chemical Company, shared his experience training students, advocating for the inclusion of actual industrial production samples in lab experiments.
"When a student works with a real factory sample, they truly appreciate the value of what they’re learning," he explained.
Dr. Abdul Munem Al-Tuwaik, Head of the Chemistry Department, affirmed the department’s commitment to these visions:
"We are not merely talking about curriculum development, but about building long-term strategic partnerships with industry, aimed at preparing a new generation of chemists capable of leadership and innovation."
