In 2023, approximately 88 percent of students secured employment during their first year of internship, according to Essa Bin Hadher, General Manager at Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), in an interview with Khaleej Times.
"Partnership with the private sector ensures a seamless transition for students, making their journey 100 percent successful, which means finding a job becomes much easier. We equip them with the necessary tools to move from student life to skilled employment," Essa Bin Hadher stated.
"We aim for our students to advance in their careers, so we are delighted to see them land jobs promptly, even within the first year of their internship," he added.
Bin Hadher also mentioned that DCT is considering expansion due to a significant increase in applications from international students. "Recently, we have witnessed a surge in international applications. We are collaborating with the Ministry of Education and the National Qualification Centre (NQC) to develop curriculum, accreditation, and certification that will provide students with valuable qualifications," he explained.
"We observe not only a growing number of students residing in the UAE but also an influx of international students from Europe, India, and the GCC," he noted.
The college, which commenced its journey in 2016, has developed its curriculum within the framework of the UAE's National Qualification Framework, led by the National Qualification Centre at the Ministry of Education. Despite most students being from Dubai, the college has successfully crafted a world-class local curriculum.
"Importing curriculum from abroad does not align with our city's needs, which is why we decided to create our own. We have also developed online educational platforms tailored for professionals in these industries. For instance, online platforms for travel agents worldwide help them better understand and market Dubai," Bin Hadher elaborated.
He further explained that they regularly engage with industry leaders to identify skill gaps and bridge them, ensuring students enter their careers with confidence. Since 2017, the college has enrolled around 100 students annually, with its online platform reaching over 130,000 learners, including hotel and tourism staff, and limousine and taxi drivers currently employed.
DCT organizes career open days, bringing together industry partners and students for networking. Workshops are also conducted to teach students CV drafting and interview skills. The college has partnered with leading local and global hotel and F&B brands, technology events, and airlines to offer internships and industry insights to students.
"We also involve students in various activities throughout the year, such as Gitex and Arab Fashion Week, among others happening in Dubai. We invite numerous industry experts to share firsthand knowledge with students," he shared.
Bin Hadher emphasized that DCT provides both theoretical and practical experience, ensuring students are job-ready from day one. Its advisory boards ensure that the curriculum remains relevant to the industry.
The Dubai College of Tourism proudly shares inspiring stories of alumni who have successfully transitioned from internships to thriving careers. Adrian Paiva, Nour Amro, and Jasmin Solero are among those who have leveraged their DCT education to fast-track their careers.
"The events course I took was led by industry professionals who provided both theoretical and practical insights, giving me the essential knowledge I needed. The skills and opportunities I gained at DCT enabled me to become an event manager within just two years," said Adrian Paiva, now with TEC Event Management.
"The college’s internship program was a fantastic launchpad for my career, offering hands-on experience and allowing me to apply my learnings. Now, I’m living my dream, traveling the world, and working with prestigious brands, all thanks to the strong foundation I received at DCT," Adrian added.
Similarly, Nour Amro, a chef de partie at a top Dubai hotel, credited her DCT education for her career success. "The internship opportunities at DCT have been pivotal in shaping my professional journey, and I am deeply thankful for the support and guidance I received."
Jasmin Solero, associated with Dubai Fashion Week, highlighted that internships at DCT were the springboard that launched her career. "DCT has given us the chance to acquire real-world knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to turn aspirations into achievements."
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
