Bahrain Polytechnic outline benefits of hiring students in businesses

The presentation took place at the Bahrain British Business Form's monthly luncheon which took place at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel in Manama.

In the presentation, entitled "Adding Value to to Your Business: Benefits of Using Students to Complete Real Projects", Ms. Reynolds discussed Bahrain Polytechnic's emphasis on students work experience through internships and similar work placements.

"The Bahrain Polytechnic Business School goal is to ensure that its students will be ready to work when they graduate. To achieve this, the school uses a problem based learning approach where students solve real business problems in real business situations. Students develop technical knowledge and skills, as well as the employability skills such as communication skills, team work, initiative and self management during their engagement with the workplace through case studies, industry projects, internships and research," she said.

"Businesses can benefit greatly from this work-integrated approach by having a senior student working in their organisation. Talented final year students are required to complete a 12-15 week business project in accounting, banking and finance, marketing or management. Thus, employers gain short term talent to complete business projects under the supervision of an academic supervisor who will ensure the highest professional standards. Cooperative Projects offer businesses the opportunity to identify future staff as well as gaining access to the latest business ideas," she added.

BBBF Chairman Khalid Al Zayani expressed the Forum's appreciation of the efforts being made by the Bahrain Polytechnic as one of the Government's flagship educational reform projects.

"We will support their efforts to produce Bahraini graduates with the right skills, qualifications and aptitude for the job market of today and tomorrow," said Al Zayani.

The BBBF is a growing network of businessmen and women in Bahrain, which now has over 430 members. The Forum meets on a regular basis and offers opportunities for networking between the Bahrain and British business communities, in addition to guest appearances by private and public sector leaders from both communities.