The American University of Sharjah’s (AUS) Engineering Al Nukhba Program has partnered with Group AMANA, a regional leader in design-build construction, through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration will provide AUS students with professional training, career development, and research opportunities, strengthening the connection between academia and industry.
The Al Nukhba Program, aimed at fostering industry partnerships, offers engineering students a competitive edge by linking them with top firms across various disciplines. Through practical training, mentorship, and research collaborations, the program ensures that students are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic job market.
Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering, emphasized the strategic significance of the partnership, stating: “Building meaningful partnerships with industry is key to equipping our students with the tools to excel in an increasingly complex and competitive global market. Our collaboration with Group AMANA aligns with our vision to produce engineering graduates who are future-ready—combining technical expertise with practical industry insights and leadership capabilities. Together, we are preparing the next generation of innovators who will shape the future of construction and engineering.”
Joe Labaki, Chief Operating Officer, at Group AMANA: “I would like to thank American University of Sharjah for this valuable opportunity to collaborate with the next generation of leaders. This MoU marks a significant step in fostering innovation, knowledge exchange and a shared commitment to shaping the future of engineering.”
“This partnership will help empower these future leaders with real-world insights and hands-on experience. We are excited to welcome them to our sites across the UAE, where they will have the chance to witness the impact of cutting-edge engineering solutions that are transforming the industry,” said Labaki.
Under the agreement, Group AMANA will recruit and train AUS students through several professional development pathways, including internships, graduate recruitment and AMANA’s Graduate Program 'AMANA.Seed'—an intensive track designed to develop high-potential individuals for leadership roles within the company.
Beyond employment, Group AMANA will work closely with AUS faculty to co-supervise senior capstone projects and support research initiatives, enabling students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world industry challenges. The partnership will also enrich the student experience through the sponsorship of industry competitions, student-led projects and skills-focused workshops and seminars.
The collaboration aims to enhance research in areas such as sustainable construction, advanced materials, modular construction, automation, and robotics. Students will also gain hands-on experience with off-site construction methods through site visits and research activities with Group AMANA's subsidiaries, DuBox and DuPod, which specialize in modular construction for faster and more efficient building solutions.
Group AMANA’s experts will assist in curriculum development through guest lectures, mentoring, and the creation of customized training programs to meet the company’s workforce development needs. The partnership will drive innovation with the establishment of innovation hubs, design-build collaborations, and research on digital twin technology and smart buildings.
Through its Al Nukhba Program, the AUS College of Engineering continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in engineering education and industry collaboration. Strategic partnerships like this one with Group AMANA ensure that AUS students graduate equipped with the skills and practical experience necessary for success in their careers and the advancement of engineering.
