Alumni-Driven Initiative Shaping Next Generation of Professionals, and Bridging Gap between Academic Learning and Real-World Career Readiness
Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced the first cohort of participants of the Athar program, a signature alumni-driven mentorship initiative, successfully concluded their six-month activities, dedicated to shaping the next generation of professionals, and bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world career readiness.
Athar, which means 鈥榠mpact鈥� in Arabic, was launched to offer students and fresh graduates鈥� invaluable guidance from the University鈥檚 experienced alumni. Part of the University鈥檚 broader efforts to support student development and alumni engagement, the first cohort of the Athar program has supported 59 active mentor鈥搈entee connections, pairing 31 alumni mentors with 47 senior students and 12 recent graduates.
His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President, Khalifa University, said: “With the success of the first cohort, the Athar program has firmly established itself as a flagship program at Khalifa University, standing as a testament to the dedication of our alumni mentors and the eagerness of our students to learn and grow. The program reflects Khalifa University鈥檚 commitment to developing well-rounded graduates who are confident, capable, and prepared for the workforce. By connecting our students with accomplished alumni, we are creating a cycle of giving back that strengthens our entire community. The alumni mentors鈥� collaboration has created a lasting impact that will continue to expand with every new cohort, and we believe future cohorts will continue the program鈥檚 momentum, ensuring more students and fresh graduates benefit from the guidance of the University鈥檚 alumni community.鈥�
Athar鈥檚 first cohort delivered impressive engagement and meaningful outcomes, deepening bonds between current students, fresh graduates, and the alumni community. Beyond one-on-one mentorship, the program offered a comprehensive schedule of events and learning opportunities, including an industry panel discussion, four informational sessions, four onboarding and training sessions, a community gathering, as well as separate sessions for mentees and mentors. These touchpoints fostered community, encouraged collaboration, and enriched the mentorship experience beyond private meetings.
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Mentor Dr. Eng. Sara Ahmad, Senior Engineer, Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), and a Fall 2015 Computer Engineering graduate, said: 鈥淚 truly appreciate this valuable opportunity, which helps bridge the gap between generations. It has been enriching to understand the perspectives and concerns of new graduates while sharing our own experiences. It is a learning journey for both sides, and I am grateful to be part of it.鈥�
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Mentee and Junior Biomedical Engineering student Meera Alshamsi said: 鈥淭he most valuable aspect of my experience as a mentee was having personalized guidance from someone who had already navigated the challenges I was facing. My mentor provided both academic advice and career insights, which helped me make more informed decisions, strengthen my confidence, and develop clearer goals for my future. The support system made the transition and growth process much smoother and more motivating.鈥�
Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
