HTU Hosts Industrial Engagement Meeting to Launch Practical Phase of Energy Apprenticeship Program

Today, Al-Hussein Technical University (HTU), in collaboration with the USAID Energy Sector Support Activity (ESSA), marked a significant milestone in the Energy Apprenticeship Program with an industrial engagement meeting. This event celebrated the end of two months of intensive theoretical and soft skills training and announced the start of a six-month practical training phase at various factories across Jordan.

The Energy Apprenticeship Program, an 8-month comprehensive initiative, aims to address the skills gap in Jordan's energy sector by equipping young professionals with both technical expertise and practical experience. This program is pivotal in developing a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the energy industry.

Dr. Hussam Khasawneh, Director of the Industrial Partnership Office at HTU, emphasized the importance of this collaborative effort, stating, "This program represents a strategic alliance between academia and industry, fostering a generation of energy professionals who are not only technically proficient but also industry-ready. Our partnership with leading industrial entities ensures that our apprentices gain hands-on experience and practical skills that are crucial for their professional development."

Ms. Mary Worzala, Chief of Party at USAID ESSA, highlighted the collaborative nature of the program, noting, "This platform facilitates meaningful dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders - our industrial partners, HTU, and ESSA. Together, we develop both technical and soft skills, preparing our apprentices to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector."

Key partnerships with the Jordan Chamber of Industry (JCI) and the Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF) play a crucial role in ensuring that the skills and knowledge gained through this program translate into real-world advancements in the sector.

The event concluded with apprentices meeting industrial partners for interviews, where industries selected candidates for practical training at their facilities. This practical phase is designed to support existing technical staff and contribute to the development of Energy Units at each facility over the next six months.