Villa College and the Business Centre Corporation (BCC) inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday to bolster small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and foster educational opportunities in business-related fields.
The MoU was signed by Samih Adam, Deputy Managing Director of BCC, and Dr Ali Najeeb, Vice-Rector of Villa College, at a ceremony held at Villa College.
Among the agreement’s key provisions is the joint effort to impart business skills to students and provide technical assistance to SMEs supported by BCC. This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping students with practical knowledge while offering real-world business support.
Moreover, both institutions have pledged to enhance the services provided by BCC’s business centres nationwide, focusing on catering to the needs of SMEs. Through joint initiatives, they aspire to elevate the standard of business education and training offered, thereby contributing to individuals’ professional development and the enterprises’ overall competitiveness.
Beyond educational endeavours, the partnership extends to research activities, with BCC and Villa College committing to collaborative efforts in conducting studies on various aspects of business and entrepreneurship. This initiative expects to yield valuable insights that inform policy-making and industry practices, further enriching the business landscape.
Additionally, the MoU outlines plans for joint awareness programmes addressing social and economic development challenges. By engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government bodies, industry associations, and civil society organisations, the institutions aim to foster a conducive environment for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Commenting on the agreement, BCC and Villa College officials expressed optimism about their collaboration prospects. They highlighted the synergies between their respective areas of expertise and affirmed their shared commitment to advancing the interests of SMEs and promoting entrepreneurship.
