By A Staff Reporter — MUSCAT — More than 90 students from The Higher College of Technology (HCT) participated in Injaz’s staple programme,’Sharikati’, which aims to foster entrepreneurship and opportunities for future employment. Omran and The Higher College of Technology have further reinforced the importance of working together by signing an agreement that will see that the two organisations guide future business leaders by sharing expertise and know-how in running a business.
Shabib al Maamari, Executive Director of Injaz Oman said, “Omran’s commitment and outstanding support has been truly instrumental to our success in the Sultanate. They have set a prime example on how the private sector can play a role in bringing practical learning into the classroom to bridge the gap between academia and the real working environment.”
Wael bin Ahmed al Lawati, CEO of Omran said, “Youth empowerment is a key element which is rooted in the company’s long standing commitment to developing the future of this country. The program allows students to understand what it is like to set up and run their own business while honing key business skill-sets and the importance of teamwork. It was a richly rewarding experience for Omran to mentor and inspire business innovation among the leaders of the Sultanate.”
Dr Ahmed bin Mohsen al Ghassani, Dean of the Higher College of Technology (HCT) said, “The students displayed positive attitude, enthusiasm and sheer teamwork and determination which enabled them to foresee a future of self-employment. Sharikati is a program that truly empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs with the necessary skills required to be successful in today’s competitive business world.”
As part of the hands-on experience, students established, managed and liquated a mini-corporation under the guidance of 30 Omran volunteers. They analyzed and explored personal opportunities and responsibilities within a company, in addition to designing various strategies that included business plans, production schedules, financial targets and marketing plans. The students were also required to produce a product, monitor productivity and evaluate quality before liquidating the company and compiling an annual report for shareholders.
The winners of Sharikati Program’s Best Company 2012 Awards for “Company of the Year”, “Best Marketing Campaign” and “Most Innovative Product” will be announced in September. The winner of “Company of the Year” will then qualify for the regional award to compete against fellow students from all across the Arab world at the annual Injaz Al Arab event.
