Al Mamlaka TV Interviews Prof. Sari Hamdan on the Future of Technical and Vocational Specializations and Their Importance in the Labor Market

Al Mamlaka TV conducted an interview with Prof. Sari Hamdan, President of Al-Ahliyya Amman University, discussing the future of technical and vocational specializations, their significance in preparing a generation capable of competing locally, regionally, and internationally, and the role of universities in addressing unemployment by equipping students with scientific and practical skills aligned with technological and economic developments. At the beginning of the interview, Prof. Hamdan emphasized that vocational fields are essentially technical specializations designed to prepare qualified cadres with the skills demanded by today’s labor market. He noted that the national focus on technical and vocational programs stems from the guidance of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II, who highlighted their importance during his meeting with university presidents; “an honor I was privileged to attend,” Prof. Hamdan remarked. Prof. Hamdan added that universities have since given greater attention to these specializations. At Al-Ahliyya Amman University, internationally accredited technical programs have been adopted through Pearson BTEC (UK). These programs guarantee students job opportunities after completing their diploma, in addition to providing pathways for “bridging” into bachelor’s degree programs either through one year study in the UK or at Jordanian universities in equivalent specializations. He stressed that students who pass the General Secondary Examination (Tawjihi) with less than 60% should not be considered failures, as opportunities are still available for them to pursue studies aligned with their abilities and the demands of the labor market. Prof. Hamdan explained that the Pearson BTEC programs are internationally recognized in most countries, equipping graduates with applied technical and vocational skills delivered by specialized trainers. This practical training mirrors real-world work environments, reducing unemployment and producing highly skilled and competent technical professionals. He highlighted the specializations offered under the BTEC program at AAU University, including Automotive Engineering, Software Engineering, Film and Television, and Interior Design, in addition to the national program in Medical Devices Technology. Prof. Hamdan further noted that technology has become integrated into all fields of study and that the university has introduced new programs to keep pace with global technological advances. He underscored the importance of hands-on training, equivalent to at least one semester, to ensure students are fully prepared to enter the workforce with competence and confidence. He also pointed out that Jordanian universities offer numerous diploma programs, many of which have a strong vocational orientation. Addressing cultural perceptions, he remarked that the social stigma surrounding certain types of work has begun to change. “Not everyone can become doctors, engineers, or lawyers so who will handle the technical, laboratory, and equipment related tasks required by those professions?” he asked. Prof. Hamdan concluded by praising Jordanian youth: “Our young men and women truly make us proud as they are a source of honor wherever they go and in whatever field they work".