ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - University students in Erbil are gaining practical skills in mechanics, solar energy, graphic design and digital marketing through a 45-day vocational training program by the Rwanga Foundation.
"In this course, we discuss car mechanics more, especially gasoline cars. We learn how to disassemble and assemble car engines, administer diagnostics, and install repairs," Abdulrahman Ibrahim, a participant, told Rudaw’s Vazhin Morad.
Zhwan Luqman, another student, said the courses teach skills that extend beyond the classroom. "Thanks to this course, I now have a better understanding of electricity. We plan on installing a solar energy system at home God willing, and once I finish this course, I will install it myself," he said.
Launched on August 2, the program caters to 135 participants from the University of Kurdistan, Hewler (Erbil). The courses are designed to provide technical skills to better equip students for the job market and serve as an introduction to various trades and future career options.
Ranjdar Kamaran, one of the instructors, said the courses focus on skills that are directly relevant to existing professions in the Kurdistan Region "as opposed to theoretical examples found only within textbooks.”
The program covers several fields, including solar energy, graphic design, digital marketing and automotive repair. Instructors said these vital skills could serve as a catalyst to help students start their own businesses.
“Students learn graphic design from start to finish so they can use [these skills] toward their future, for their own business and entrepreneurship,” Rezdar Shakhawan, a graphic design instructor, said.
Based on the initial success with university students and graduates, the Rwanga Foundation plans to expand its vocational training program to other universities in the Kurdistan Region and obtain international accreditation, enabling more students to gain practical skills alongside their academic pursuits.
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