PAAET aligns admissions with job market needs, plans AI and digital media diplomas
The Director General of the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), Dr. Hassan Al-Fajjam, has announced the implementation of a new organizational structure aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and responsiveness to Kuwait’s labor market needs.
The revised framework introduces the position of Director General with the rank of Undersecretary, supported by two deputies at the level of Assistant Undersecretary. A new post, General Administration Director, will oversee all departments, streamlining the authority’s internal operations, reports Al-Jarida daily.
Speaking during the launch of the annual “My Start Right” admissions campaign at Avenues Mall, Dr. Al-Fajjam explained that the initiative targets high school graduates by answering their queries and guiding them through available majors and admissions procedures.
This academic year, PAAET will offer 60–65 majors across its five colleges, alongside 15–18 majors through eight affiliated institutes. Some institutes exclusively admit high school graduates and feature specialized sub-disciplines.
Dr. Al-Fajjam emphasized that all new academic offers are coordinated with the Civil Service Bureau to ensure alignment with job market demands. Among the newest programs is a four-year Fire Engineering degree, launched in collaboration with the General Fire Force. Graduates will earn the rank of fire engineer lieutenant.
Other specialized programs include the “Technical Classifications Inspector” in partnership with the Ministry of Defense, and the “Marine Guide” program, for which initial admissions open in September, followed by interviews and academic assessments in the second semester.
When asked about employment eligibility, Al-Fajjam clarified that each major is linked to specific career cadres as determined by the Civil Service Bureau, with details shared upon graduation.
Some fields, particularly in healthcare, require candidates to pass a mandatory medical examination due to hands-on training in hospitals. For students previously expelled or with poor academic standing, PAAET now offers a private expense return path, subject to guidelines, for those close to completing their studies. A decision on whether private study will be extended to the University of Applied Sciences is expected soon.
Al-Fajjam said that curriculum development remains a key focus, particularly in boosting practical and skills-based training. Even at the College of Basic Education, skill acquisition in communication and lesson preparation is being prioritized.
He also hinted that admissions for the second semester could change based on circumstances. For now, first-semester admissions are limited to Kuwaiti students, with further announcements expected for available slots.
PAAET typically accepts 18,000 to 21,000 students annually, with 16,000 to 18,000 admitted in the first semester alone. With around 59,000 students currently enrolled, the authority is among Kuwait’s largest educational bodies.
The Authority collaborates with major entities like the Ministry of Health, Kuwait Airways, and the Kuwait National Petroleum Company, as well as private sector organizations, especially in education, to secure employment for graduates.
Looking ahead, PAAET is moving toward launching professional diplomas that better match market demand than traditional degrees. Among the anticipated programs are a diploma in Artificial Intelligence, a Digital Media diploma (in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, set for 2026–2027), and a Tourism diploma.
