Doha, Qatar – The Qatar Career Development Center (QCDC) launched its Winter Edition of the “My Career – My Future” job shadowing program on December 28, 2025, at Multaqa in Education City. This initiative, a collaboration between QCDC, the Ministry of Labour (MoL), and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), provides students with practical experience in various industries. The program runs through January 1, 2026, and focuses on key sectors vital to Qatar’s economic diversification.
The five-day program offers students a firsthand look at professional life, with a particular emphasis this year on the financial services industry. Placements are also available in healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, information technology, digital services, and construction, according to a QCDC press release. This targeted approach aims to give participants deeper insights into the skills and requirements of these priority areas.
The Importance of Job Shadowing for Career Development
QCDC’s Executive Director, Saad Abdulla Al-Kharji, emphasized the value of experiential learning, stating that job shadowing transforms abstract career ideas into tangible realities. By observing professionals and understanding workplace dynamics, students can make more informed decisions about their academic paths and future careers. This edition’s focus on financial services reflects a national strategy to develop expertise in this growing sector.
The program isn’t simply about observing; it’s designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs at MoEHE, Maha Zayed Alruwaili, described the initiative as a “vital bridge between education and work,” fostering self-discovery and building a foundation for confident career choices. This aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030’s focus on human development and building a skilled workforce.
Supporting National Localization Efforts
The Ministry of Labour views the “My Career – My Future” program as a key component in its national localization plan, “We Work for Qatar.” Mohammed Salem Al-Khulaifi, Acting Director of Qualifying and Skills Development Department at MoL, noted that the program introduces students to professional conduct and strengthens their readiness for the workforce. This is particularly important as Qatar aims to increase the participation of its citizens in the national economy.
Participants will begin with an orientation at Multaqa, covering program objectives and workplace expectations. The majority of the program will be spent at host organizations, observing daily operations and interacting with industry professionals. This immersive experience is intended to provide a realistic understanding of various career paths.
Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate acknowledging their participation and documented work hours. This documentation can be valuable for future job applications and career advancement. The program’s structure and certification process contribute to its credibility and impact on student career readiness.
The initiative is part of a broader national effort to prepare young people for the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. Qatar is actively working to diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons, creating new opportunities in sectors like technology and finance. Developing a skilled national workforce is crucial to achieving these goals, and programs like “My Career – My Future” play a vital role in this process. Skills development is a key component of this strategy.
Looking ahead, the QCDC will likely analyze feedback from participants and host organizations to refine the program for future editions. The success of the Winter Edition will be measured by participant satisfaction, the quality of placements, and the extent to which the program influences students’ academic and career choices. Further expansion into other emerging sectors and increased collaboration with private sector companies are also possibilities to watch for in the coming year. The next program deadline is expected to be announced in the spring of 2026.
