American University of Sharjah (AUS) College of Engineering has entered into a partnership with Group AMANA, a regional leader in design-build construction, to drive student development through Al Nukhba Program.
The MoU will provide AUS students with professional training, career development and research opportunities, enhancing the link between academia and industry.
The AUS Engineering Al Nukhba Program, designed to foster immersive industry partnerships, connects engineering students with leading firms across multiple disciplines. Through hands-on training, mentorship and research collaboration, the program equips student with essential practical skills to drive success in an evolving job market.
“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, stated that, “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.”
Under the agreement, Group AMANA will recruit and train AUS students through internships, student-led projects, skills-focused workshops, seminars, graduate recruitment and AMANA’s Graduate Program ‘AMANA.Seed’, an intensive track designed to develop high-potential individuals for leadership roles within the company.
Group AMANA will also work closely with AUS faculty to co-supervise senior capstone projects and support research initiatives. The partnership will advance research in areas such as sustainability in construction, advanced construction materials, modular construction, automation and robotics.
The students will gain practical exposure to off-site construction methods through site visits and research activities with Group AMANA’s subsidiaries, DuBox and DuPod, which specialize in modular construction to deliver faster and more efficient building solutions.
Furthermore, Group AMANA’s professionals will contribute to curriculum development through guest lectures, mentoring and the design of customized training programs tailored to the company’s workforce development needs.
The partnership will also promote innovation through the establishment of innovation hubs, design-build collaborations and research into digital twin technology and smart buildings.
Through Al Nukhba Program, the AUS College of Engineering remains committed to elevating its status as a leader in engineering education and industry engagement. Strategic collaborations with partners like Group AMANA ensure AUS students graduate with the skills and practical experience to excel in their careers and contribute to the advancement of engineering.
