Connecting education with the skills employers need
About Na'amal
Na'amal train refugees and other underrepresented people in marketable skills for the global labour market. Through strong networks across the digital professions, they connects refugees with employers and professional opportunities, including internships, mentoring schemes and other forms of career support.
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The collaboration will bring Na’amal’s Human Skills or Employment Training which includes communication, teamwork, digital readiness, and professional development can complement GUA’s academic programmes and strengthen students’ preparation for the workplace.
The partnership will also provide opportunities for GUA students and graduates to access mentoring, internships, paid assignments, and potential employment opportunities through Na’amal’s networks and Na’amal Agency.
“Education can create enormous possibilities, but learners also need clear pathways to turn what they know into meaningful work,” said Lorraine Charles, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Na’amal. “Through this partnership, we have an opportunity to bring education, professional preparation, and access to employers closer together, particularly for displaced learners navigating barriers to employment.”
“Universities have a responsibility to help students put their education to use. For displaced learners, this means working with partners to address the barriers that too often stand between a qualification and an opportunity,” said Svein Stølen, Chair of the Board of Global University Academy. “Our partnership with Na’amal brings together complementary strengths in higher education, professional skills and access to employers. We want to help learners build on their knowledge, earn a living and contribute to their communities.”
The collaboration also creates an opportunity for Na’amal talent to access accredited university courses through GUA, strengthening the connection between professional development and recognised higher education.
Building a stronger bridge from learning to livelihoods
A central goal of the partnership is to address a challenge both organisations recognise: completing education or training does not automatically lead to employment.
By connecting academic programmes more closely with labour-market needs, professional networks, practical experience, and paid opportunities, Na’amal and GUA hope to strengthen graduate outcomes and develop approaches that can be replicated across different programmes and locations.
Over time, the collaboration could contribute to wider efforts around self-reliance, economic inclusion, and sustainable opportunities for displaced communities.
The partnership also builds on an existing creative connection between the organisations. Na’amal Agency designed the Global University Academy logo, bringing refugee talent directly into the development of GUA’s growing identity.