UAE Experts Say Internships and Part-Time Work Key to Securing First Jobs for Students
Internships and part-time jobs are proving to be vital stepping stones for students seeking their first job, according to education experts in the UAE. Industry professionals emphasize that gaining early real-world work experience significantly enhances employability and better prepares students for the demands of the job market.
Speaking at the recently concluded KT UniExpo held at The H Dubai on April 16–17, Mokhammad Mashavipov, Student Recruitment Junior Officer at Canadian University Dubai, stressed that students should start seeking internships and part-time opportunities as early as their first year.
“If students go four years without any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering, their chances of landing a job post-graduation become very slim,” Mashavipov noted. “We have a department that assists with building CVs and finding internships, but the student must be proactive. First-hand experience at companies gives them an edge.”
The expo, which gathered over 35 universities and attracted thousands of students and parents, offered insights into academic options and career planning.
Real-Life Experience Matters
At Emirates Aviation University, internships are mandatory for students pursuing full-time bachelor’s degrees. Israa Yousef, Admission Officer, explained that students undertake a full-semester internship with Emirates Airlines, giving them hands-on experience aligned with their specialization.
“Recruiters are increasingly seeking candidates with actual industry experience rather than just theoretical knowledge,” she said.
Similarly, Dubai College of Tourism requires a six-week internship in the first year, followed by a four-month internship in each subsequent year of its three-year vocational programs.
“This is crucial for developing professionalism and connecting classroom learning with real-world applications,” said Olivia Turner, the institute’s Academic Director. “We notice a marked improvement in student attitude and maturity post-internship.”
Training in Soft Skills
Experts also stressed the importance of soft skills such as communication, public speaking, and interview preparedness. Symbiosis International University Dubai incorporates soft skills training into its curriculum from the first semester.
“We ensure our students are confident in public speaking and equipped with job readiness skills,” said Shreebha Pillai, Head of Admission and Promotions.
In addition to internships, students are encouraged to participate in high-profile events such as Formula One, Dubai Fashion Week, and Dubai World Cup, allowing them to gain exposure and potentially secure employment with participating organizations.
“Many of our students transition from volunteers or interns to full-time staff with the same companies,” Turner added.
The consensus among educators is clear: early work experience and skill development play a pivotal role in shaping a student’s future and improving their chances of securing meaningful employment after graduation.
