Balqa university, KOICA discuss enhancing technical education programmes

AMMAN — President of Balqa Applied University Ahmad Ajlouni on Sunday met with Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Office in Jordan Soyoung Kim and a delegation from a South Korean university over progress on a project aimed at developing intermediate university degree programmes at Irbid and Karak university colleges.

Ajlouni stressed the significance of a "strong and productive" partnership to facilitate knowledge exchange and enhance cooperation in advancing technical education programmes. 

He commended KOICA for its role in introducing Korean technical expertise to Balqa Applied University.

Kim highlighted the "deep-rooted" ties and ongoing collaboration with the university under the project, which seeks to improve the quality of technical education by enhancing infrastructure, refining academic curricula, and strengthening faculty capabilities. 

She expressed her commitment to promoting newly developed professional programmes to attract more students.

The Korean delegation outlined key achievements in curriculum development across seven technical fields: fashion technology, knitting, electronics, welding, electric and hybrid vehicle maintenance, dental laboratory technology, and graphic design. 

Discussions also covered progress in infrastructure improvements, capacity-building initiatives, and employment outcomes for graduates, along with the projected work plan for the coming year.

Balqa Applied University had previously signed an agreement with KOICA to advance technical education across several intermediate degree programmes, with a total project cost of $10 million, including a $6 million grant from KOICA and $4 million in self-financing by the university.

This collaboration underscores the university’s commitment to modernising technical education and equipping students with skills that align with labour market demands at the local and international levels.