This course allows students to apply knowledge and skills acquired at the University in a real life setting. The main goal is to obtain hands-on experience necessary to qualify for a good entry level position in a field related to their major. Moreover, students learn how to create and write a professional report with emphasis on their experience in the industry. The course is thus practical and theoretical in the sense that students will participate in theoretical classes at the University and at the same time partake in a 120 hour training program at a recognized corporate establishment. This initiative has been in place for 3 academic years.
Contact information of the main actors involved in the initiative
- Name and surname : Hiba Chreif
- Position : Training & Development Department
- Organization : Central Bank of Lebanon
- Address : Pobox:11-5544 – Beirut Lebanon
- Telephone : 00961-1743100
- Email : bdltraining@bdl.gov.lb
- Website : http://www.bdl.gov.lb/
- Website : bankofbeirut.com
- Email : ryaghi@bankofbeirut.com.lb
- Telephone : +961 1 90 6163
- Address : Administrative Offices, Bauchrieh, Serail Street – POBox: 11-7354
- Organization : Bank of Beirut
- Position : Head of Human Resources Department
- Name and surname : Rabih Yaghi
- Name and surname : Juliette Khalil
- Position : Human Resource Director
- Organization : Le Royal Hotel
- Address : Dbayeh – Lebanon
- Telephone : +961 4 555 535
- Email : khalil@leroyal.com
- Website : www.leroyal.com
Relevance of the development of initiative in its specific context
In a very dynamic environment it appears important to deliver educational curricula that responds and anticipates market needs. To make sure that our graduates have a good understanding of the market and the potential careers they might pursue, the internship course acts as a door to the real world exposing students to real life situations. Target market is 2nd year bachelor students. Partners include national and international organizations either via a formally signed agreement or simple email exchange with key persons.
Visibility of the action
The internship opportunities are either shared via the USEK application or through the heads of departments. Social media posts are also used on Facebook. The objective of identifying the rights candidates for the job was met as we were able to secure internship for more than 30 students for the summer period. (other students are either working or secured a training for themselves without the assistance of the university).
Transferability
Easily transferrable – built on reaching out to organizations, meeting with them, and agreeing on a common collaboration ground.
Sustainability
This has been done for several year on an informal basis and voluntary for the students who were looking for such opportunities; 3 years ago, internships have become mandatory. Contact with new organizations is being also established by the Career Services Office generating a wide array of possibilities for the students. This is sustained through additional corporate visits and nurturing relationships with key people within top organizations.
Innovative character
The fact the students test their knowledge.
Interaction with corporate representatives.
Impact
Provided better understanding about the job helping students reduce career selection errors. Promote our graduates among recruiters.
