The Higher Institute of Arts and Crafts at Kairouan University in Tunisia is updating its programs to better align with the region's resources and job market needs. The updates include new specializations in ceramics, sculpture, product design, and interior design. These changes aim to leverage the region's natural and cultural resources, such as wood, sand, stone, and clay. The institute's director, Nadia Gammouri, stated that these updates will help students integrate into the job market.
The institute will also review and update its two professional master's programs, "Design for Sustainable Development" and "Interior Engineering". The goal is to make these programs more relevant to the job market and the region's specific needs. A new research master's program may also be introduced, focusing on the region's artistic and craft specialties. The institute is exploring partnerships with other universities, both locally and internationally, to enhance its programs.
The Higher Institute of Arts and Crafts was established in 2005 and offers programs in interior design, product design, sculpture, and ceramics. The institute has undergone gradual development, introducing new specializations such as furniture design, industrial innovation, and craft innovation. Its graduates have successfully integrated into the job market, both locally and internationally.
The institute's director, Nadia Gammouri, emphasized that the programs aim to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in the job market. The institute has introduced initiatives to support entrepreneurship and innovation, such as the "Student Entrepreneur" program. This program has encouraged students to launch their own projects and develop their communication and leadership skills.
Currently, the institute has around 360-380 students, but it faces challenges related to student accommodation. The limited availability of university housing in the region is a significant obstacle, particularly with three universities operating in the area. The institute's administration has raised this issue with the relevant authorities to find solutions.
Gammouri called on local business leaders and stakeholders to pay attention to this issue and work towards providing suitable accommodation for students. She emphasized that improving student living conditions would enhance the overall university experience in the region. The institute attracts a significant number of students from outside the Kairouan governorate.
The updates to the institute's programs and the efforts to address student accommodation issues demonstrate the institution's commitment to providing high-quality education and supporting the region's development. The institute's focus on aligning its programs with regional resources and job market needs will likely have a positive impact on the employability of its graduates.
Key points
- The Higher Institute of Arts and Crafts at Kairouan University is updating its programs to align with regional resources and job market needs.
- The institute will review and update its two professional master's programs to make them more relevant to the job market.
- The institute faces challenges related to student accommodation, which affects its ability to attract students.
