Manama: University students in Qatar have been offered a special opportunity to gain real-world experience by shadowing Shell scientists and experts.
For a full working day, the students from Qatar University and Texas A&M University at Qatar accompanied leading professionals, in order to better understand the role of a professional scientist and witness first-hand some of the future career paths available to them.
The visit was part of “Job Shadow Day”, an initiative launched by Injaz Qatar, a non-profit organisation and member of Junior Achievement (JA) Worldwide, and Bedaya Centre for Entrepreneurship and Career Guidance.
The programme is tailored to meet the needs of a diverse group of students by providing them with experiential learning sessions for career planning and to prepare them for the work environment.
Scientists and researchers from hosts, Qatar Shell Research & Technology Centre (QSRTC), provided insight into the oil and gas industry’s activities, including the upstream sector, commonly known as the Exploration and Production sector, as well as seismic acquisition, a method that helps scientists understand the Earth’s properties and the potential of natural resource reserves before drilling.
“This visit is among many that QSRTC organises to demonstrate to talented students, particularly Qatari nationals, the vital importance of science and research and the significant role it plays in driving the country’s economy,” Yousuf Saleh, General Manager of QSRTC, said.
“Our goal is to broaden Qatar’s research capacity and we are committed to helping youth discover the many rewarding career possibilities that are available to them in this promising industry.”
The Job Shadow Day initiative targets university students between the ages 16 and 24 and seeks to equip youth in Qatar with practical experience prior to graduation, while facilitating sufficient networking and employment opportunities for the future.
“Job Shadow Day is a great opportunity for university students to experience a real life work environment through shadowing a professional working in their desired career field,” Aisha Al Mudahka, Injaz Qatar Executive Director, said.
“Stemming from our Work Readiness Pillar, this initiative aims to inspire and motivate Qatar’s youth by giving them the chance to be part of major companies in the country. We are grateful to all companies participating in this programme for giving this opportunity to students at a time when they are still growing and developing academically.”
