Report on Sustainable Development 2010

Page 47

CULTURAL LIFE

in the Egyptian labor market, the curriculum prepares students for self-employment. Through training courses, the apprentices are guided through every aspect of their chosen trade. In line with the SEKEM philosophy “learning by doing and doing by learning�, on-the-job training is emphasized and practical skills are judged to be just as important as theory. Trainees participate in a three-year program, taught by both local and foreign-trained staff. Since 1999, the VTC has been accredited by the Mubarak-Kohl Initiative, which is a highly successful German technical assistance project in Egypt. Accredited courses include: mechanics, plumbing, ready made garment, carpentry, agriculture machinery mechanics, general administration and electronic technology (incl. computer maintenance). In 2006, an organic model farm was established for education in agriculture.

SEKEM Special Education

Students learning in the Vocational Training Center

SEKEM Environmental Science Center (SESC) The SEKEM Environmental Science Center offers interactive science classes on environmental topics to pupils from the SEKEM Community, as well as from local and international schools. The one-day field trips encompassing practical activities cover a wide variety of subjects including chemistry, biology, physics and geography. A number of 32 different groups have participated in field trips offered by SESC.

Vocational Training Center The Vocational Training Center (VTC) provides young people with abilities that are needed in the local labor market. Given the current lack of opportunities

The SEKEM Special Education provides a variety of educational and therapeutic programs for children and young adults with special needs, such as physical and mental disabilities and serious learning difficulties. The pupils win independence and self-confidence by learning how to master practical, everyday life activities and basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics. Furthermore, for those who are adults and need to work in a sheltered environment, we provide adequate placements within the SEKEM institutions.

Heliopolis University Egypt To ensure that we meet high quality standards of academic excellence, the core establishing team of Heliopolis University Egypt (HUE) decided to postpone the opening to 2012. This decision is in line with the recommendations of our consulting company, which suggested that it will give us enough time to position HUE as an innovative and unique university for sustainable development within the Egyptian market.

SEKEM Report on Sustainable Development 2010

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