The University of Stirling’s Ras-Al-Khaimah campus recently held an enlightening HR Forum titled “The Power of Transferable Skills: Industry Expectations from Academia.” The event, held on 28 September 2023, showcased the rising demand for transferable skills in the modern workforce.
The forum was inaugurated by Ms. Shanthi Menon, Director of Internal Quality and Assurance Department, who laid the foundation by explaining the essence of transferable skills. Dr. Richa Arora, Head of the institution, further emphasized the universality of these skills, noting their applicability across diverse professions. The focus was placed on communication, critical thinking, social skills, and empathy.
Industry leaders, including Ms. Mira Zakaria from RAK Tourism and Development Authority and Ms. Aysha Sulaiman from Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, underscored the value of these soft skills, often surpassing technical knowledge in today’s job landscape.
Insights from esteemed guests from RAK Chamber pinpointed the need for professionals adept at swift adaptation to ever-changing environments. As Dr. Ahmed commented, “The future belongs to those who innovate, effectively communicate, and foster inter-disciplinary collaboration.”
Reinforcing this sentiment, other industry HR experts cited the paramount importance of empathy and interpersonal skills in their respective fields. They emphasized that while technical skills are vital, the human connection cannot be overlooked.
Highlighting the University’s approach, Dr. Abhinanda Barman mentioned the emphasis on active learning, real-world projects, and cross-disciplinary collaboration within the curriculum. Dr. Arora concluded, “Our objective is to mold graduates into adaptable problem solvers, ready to confront job market challenges.”
One of the standout moments of the event was the palpable enthusiasm of the student attendees, who recognized the transformative power of the discussed skills for their future careers.
In conjunction with this educational initiative, the University of Stirling’s RAK campus has announced its intake for the SQA (Scottish Qualification Authority) – Advanced Diploma Program for January 2024. Prospective students and those interested in this transformative opportunity can inquire and apply directly through this link.