Oman’s Duqm University College launches work-based learning model to bridge skills gap

Duqm University College in Oman has launched a work-based learning initiative to strengthen links between higher education and employers, as the Special Economic Zone at Duqm expands its industrial, logistics and investment activities.

The college organised a partnership forum with public- and private-sector employers on 20 October to explore ways of integrating academic study with practical training in real workplace environments.

The initiative aims to prepare Omani graduates with skills aligned with labour market requirements, while enabling businesses to contribute to the development of future talent.

The forum coincided with the launch of operations at Duqm University College, the first higher education institution in Al Wusta Governorate. Its establishment is intended to expand access to higher education in the region and help meet the growing demand for specialised skills as investment and economic activity increase in Duqm.

Work-based learning to connect education with employment

The college’s educational model places workplace learning alongside academic instruction, allowing students to gain professional experience while pursuing their degrees.

The institution describes the approach as the first of its kind among bachelor's degree programmes in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with training and learning in actual work environments forming a central part of students’ education.

Through partnerships with companies and institutions across different economic sectors, students are expected to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, develop problem-solving and innovation skills, and gain experience relevant to their future careers.

The forum also explored opportunities for employers to provide training environments and contribute to aligning academic programmes with the needs of industries operating in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm.

Industrial, logistics and service-sector businesses are among the key areas of focus, given their expanding role in the zone’s economic development.

College offers two degree programmes with UK university

In its first phase, Duqm University College is offering two academic programmes in partnership with Coventry University in the United Kingdom.

These are a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Digital and Technology Solutions and a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Business Administration and Leadership.

The programmes are intended to address skills requirements arising from economic development, technological change and evolving employer needs.

By combining academic education with workplace experience, the college aims to help students develop both technical and professional capabilities before entering the workforce.

Initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040

The development of Duqm University College comes as the Special Economic Zone at Duqm expands its industrial, logistics and investment projects, increasing demand for qualified professionals across multiple sectors.

The college aims to build long-term partnerships with employers within the zone and elsewhere in Oman to support student training and improve the alignment between educational outcomes and employment opportunities.

The initiative also supports Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises education development, youth empowerment and the preparation of national talent to meet the needs of the economy.

Through its work-based learning model, the college seeks to strengthen cooperation between education providers and employers while contributing to workforce development and economic diversification in Al Wusta Governorate.