Abstract:

This paper describes the international training program for engineering students at Sultan Qaboos University. It presents the objectives of the program and discusses the importance of industrial training in the development of students' ability to gain the required practical experience to prepare them for the market before their graduation. Surveys were conducted for students who completed their training program to evaluate the performance of students during their training and also to assess the reaction of students on the program.
The program is implemented through the membership of the International Association for Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE). IAESTE was founded in 1948 at Imperial College, London. Imperial College Vacation Work Committee headed by Mr. James Newby initiated a meeting with national organizations from 10 European countries to promote better understanding between countries and cultures. Since 1948, the association has grown to include more than 80 countries worldwide and has exchanged in excess of 300,000 students. This means that yearly IAESTE exchanges around 6000 students playing a key role in the development of technical undergraduates able to make their mark in a global economy. National secretariats and committees make up the membership of the Association. Each year the Annual Conference brings together the representatives of these bodies to decide issues of general policy and with the IAESTE co-operating institutions to carry out the exchange of the offers for training. Prior to the conference, each member and co-operating institution collects offers from employers willing to receive students from abroad for a temporary training and work experience period relevant to the students areas of study, as a complement to their university or college education. The offering companies or organizations are expected to pay students a wage sufficient to cover their cost of living during the actual training period. The offers of training are exchanged with the other members and co-operating institutions on a reciprocal basis. Details of the selected students candidates for training are sent to the companies for approval. Participation in the IAESTE exchange is open to students attending courses at universities, and institutions of higher education.
The Sultanate of Oman membership in IAESTE was founded by Sultan Qaboos University (College of Engineering) and started in 2001 as a Co-operating Institution. In 2004, IAESTE Oman gained Associate Membership in the organization and in 2007, Oman became the first country in the Gulf Region to be Full Member of IAESTE. From 2001 to 2008 IAESTE Oman has sent 191 and received 154 both male and female students through IAESTE Exchange program.

Keywords:

industrial, training, experience, engineering, students, international, graduates, employment, iaeste.