Importance of contextualisation in developing university training: Professional Master's degree in "sustainable management of waste in an urban environment" in Algeria

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The goal is to emphasise the relevance of contextualisation in designing university professional training and adapting skills to the growth of social and labour market demands to maintain the University's long-term viability and resilience. It highlights the concepts and strategies used in building a professional master's degree in sustainable waste management in collaboration with the socio-economic and academic sectors (Rostock University, Germany). Methodology: The method used is based on technical means: analysis of documents, investigation and observation in the field. Supplemented by the study of the work carried out by the professional in the situation, which lasted three years—complemented by a series of interviews with stakeholders in the waste management sector (academic and national and international socio-economic). Main findings: Considering the context while developing the curriculum makes professional training a critical instrument for placing the University at the service of society. The involvement of players in the socio-economic sector enhances the quality of higher education. Furthermore, it promotes the opening of the University to the socio-economic world and the integration of future executives into the industrial world. Applications of this study: This study on the approach to adapting vocational courses to the local context in the waste management sector can be generalised to all areas where there is a need for the skills required. The areas: we can mention operational town planning, the living environment and public space management, and heritage tourism development. Novelty/originality of this study: The study's uniqueness stems from the strategy used in its conception and implementation, which included taking into account the local context, consulting and involving actors in the socio-economic sector, and establishing a collaboration platform, furthermore, within the university, the creation of an "Eco campus" pilot project as a field of practice, including students and professors as participants.