Ismailia – Over 1,500 job seekers met with representatives from 12 companies today at the USAID-sponsored Suez Canal University Employment Fair.

“The U.S. Government is committed to helping Egypt create a strong economy with good jobs and educated workers,” said Katie Donohoe, USAID/Egypt Education Director.  “USAID’s support for employment fairs is an important step on the path to building a stronger economy in Egypt.”

The Employability and Career Development Center at Suez Canal University (SCU) was established in 2012 through a joint agreement between SCU, The American University in Cairo, and the U.S. Agency for International Development.  During the past three years, Center staff have become certified career development facilitators and provided guidance to over 7,000 students.  Staff members have facilitated training for 7,000 students on customer service, business ethics, entrepreneurship, and the English language. The Center has worked with the business community to bridge the gap between academic programs and labor market needs.  As a result of the Center’s activities, over200 SCU students have secured internships or full-time employment.

The U.S. Government promotes a globally competitive, educated, innovative human resources-based economy in Egypt.  USAID activities since 2012 have led to new or better employment for over 60,000 people who are adding value to the Egyptian economy. A generation of career-educated graduates who possess the right skills for today’s job market will help bridge the current gap between education and employment needs.