KUWAIT CITY, Oct 10: The Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Acting Minister of Education Prof. Dr. Nader Al-Jalal affirmed the importance of developing scientific programs and academic specializations in educational institutions to align with labor market needs. The minister said this during his visit to the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET) where he was welcomed by its Director General Dr. Hassan Al-Fajjam, along with his deputies, deans of applied colleges and training institutes, deans of specific deanships, and several department directors.

The visit by the minister was aimed at assessing progress on work, development plans, and new programs in PAAET. He highlighted the need for ongoing collaboration and strengthening of relationships with various state institutions to benefit Kuwaiti youth. Dr. Al-Jalal explained that PAAET serves as an important institution for producing technically and professionally qualified national talent.

It serves as the foundation for building a knowledge-based economy. It plays a strategic role in guiding young people toward professions and jobs needed in the labor market both currently and in the future. PAAET is dedicated to supplying the labor market with expertise and competencies that enhance the quality of services in the country, thereby narrowing the gap between educational outcomes and labor market demands. Dr. Al-Jalal commended PAAET for its swift actions in creating many scientific and technical programs that keep pace with the current scientific and technological advancements. He also highlighted the importance of connecting PAAET’s academic offerings with employment opportunities to support the New Kuwait 2035 vision.

During the meeting, the Director General of PAAET Dr. Hassan Al-Fajjam gave a detailed presentation on PAAET’s journey since its establishment, highlighting its scientific, training, and administrative achievements, which have positioned PAAET as a vital partner in cooperation and communication with various state institutions. He said one of PAAET’s most important achievements is the launch of its 2023/2028 strategic plan, which aligns with the state’s strategy and New Kuwait 2035 vision. Dr. Al-Fajjam affirmed the commitment of PAAET to developing academic programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of the labor market.

He highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance research quality, including the revision of promotion regulations in applied colleges and the formation of a central committee to determine appropriate scientific journals for publication related to promotions. At the end of the meeting, the minister expressed his pleasure in meeting Dr. Al-Fajjam and the PAAET leadership. He reiterated his commitment to holding regular meetings to ensure PAAET successfully fulfills its mission of building a skilled national workforce capable of driving sustainable development in the country.

By Abdulrahman Al-Shammari
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff