The International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE) is an association of national committees representing academic, industrial and student interests. IAESTE serve 4000 students, 3000 employers and 1000 academic institutions through career focused professional internships abroad, social and intercultural reception programs, international networking and other career and employer branding activities in 87 countries and on each continent. To promote international understanding, co-operation and trust amongst students, academic institutions, employers and the wider community, during the IAESTE Annual Conference in Cyprus in the period of 18-24 January 2019 celebrated its 72th Annual Conference was the best time to recognize the long-standing support of many institutions for their on-going contribution to society.

Among these institutions, the College of Engineering at Sultan Qaboos University was awarded for 15 years of providing traineeships for international students. The award was received during the Gala dinner by Dr Ghazi Al-Rawas, the Assistant Dean of Engineering for Training and Community Service at Sultan Qaboos University who serves also as IAESTE-Oman National Secretary, and the President of Asia and Pacific IAESTE Forum. This award was introduced as a new category entitled “Employer Awards” during the 70^th Anniversary, in 2018 to recognize long-term cooperation with IAESTE employers and IAESTE national committees, active participation in the IAESTE International exchange program, providing a positive work environment for the trainees, and overall support of international trainees.