Prepared by Dr. Riyadh Malik Mohsen
Economic Feasibility Studies are among the most important courses taught in colleges of business and economics, due to their pivotal role in preparing students to understand the nature of investment projects and make informed decisions before initiating any project. The success of projects does not rely solely on the availability of capital, but requires a precise scientific study of various economic, technical, marketing, and legal aspects. This is exactly what the course in Economic Feasibility Studies aims to instill in students.
Enhancing the Ability to Make Sound Economic Decisions
The course contributes to developing students’ skills in analyzing available alternatives and selecting the most appropriate ones by comparing expected costs and benefits. Students learn how to evaluate projects according to scientific criteria such as profitability, payback period, and break-even point, thereby strengthening their ability to make well-informed economic decisions that are free from randomness and undue risk.
Connecting Theory with Practical Reality
Economic feasibility studies help bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and the practical realities of the labor market. Students do not merely learn economic principles; they are trained to apply them through case studies and the analysis of real or hypothetical projects. This prepares them to meet the demands of the workforce after graduation, whether in the public or private sector.
Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment
The course plays a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurial thinking and self-employment. It equips students with the tools to evaluate their investment ideas before implementation. By understanding how to assess opportunities for success and failure, students can confidently enter the world of small and medium-sized enterprises, contributing to reducing unemployment and promoting economic development.
Optimizing the Use of Economic Resources
Economic feasibility studies instill the concept of optimal utilization of limited resources. Students learn how to direct financial, human, and technological resources toward the most efficient and viable projects. This is particularly important in developing countries, which face resource constraints and require precise investment decisions to achieve maximum economic and social benefits.
Supporting Economic Planning and Development
Economic feasibility studies are essential tools for economic planning at both institutional and national levels. They help identify projects that serve economic and social development goals. By teaching this course, students gain a deeper understanding of the role of investment projects in achieving economic growth, creating job opportunities, and improving living standards.
In light of the above, it is clear that teaching Economic Feasibility Studies is a scientific and practical necessity in university curricula. The course has a significant impact on preparing students capable of sound economic thinking, making informed investment decisions, and actively contributing to sustainable development. Therefore, focusing on developing the course content and its practical applications directly contributes to building an economically aware generation capable of facing future challenges.