Saudi Arabia investing heavily on youth to promote Vision 2030 transformation
As Saudi Arabia progresses toward its ambitious Vision 2030 goals, the
Kingdom is investing heavily in its youth, empowering them with the skills,
opportunities, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to shape a thriving,
sustainable economy.
Youth as the Backbone of Vision 2030
With 63 percent of its population under the age of 30, Saudi Arabia is
leveraging its young talent to drive innovation and economic diversification.
Through public-private partnerships, specialized training programs, and
cutting-edge educational initiatives, the government and private sector are
creating a dynamic workforce ready to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving
job market.
“Digital literacy and an entrepreneurial mindset are critical for achieving
Vision 2030,” said Riyadh Al-Najjar, PwC Middle East chairman and Saudi Arabia
country senior partner. “Young people must be able to navigate technological
advancements, innovate in areas like AI and data analytics, and identify
opportunities that add value to the economy.”
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Skills for the Future
Saudi Arabia is focusing on a blend of technical and soft skills to prepare
its youth for emerging sectors like technology, renewable energy, and tourism.
Digital literacy, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership are essential
for equipping young Saudis to tackle complex challenges, manage projects, and
inspire teams.
“By nurturing these skills, we aim to empower the next generation to
contribute effectively to the Kingdom’s evolving economy,” said Zehar Filemban,
executive director in talent development at Red Sea Global.
Programs such as the RSG Elite Graduate Program and the RSG Scholarship
Program are examples of how Saudi Arabia is aligning education with industry
needs, ensuring that young professionals are job-ready in high-demand sectors.
Robust Youth Engagement
PwC’s Middle East Youth Outlook 2024 report underscores the enthusiasm and
trust Saudi youth place in Vision 2030, with 76 percent viewing the government
as a driver of positive change. Many are keen to pursue careers in sectors like
technology, healthcare, and renewable energy—industries crucial to the
Kingdom’s sustainable future.
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Private-Public Collaboration
The alignment between the private sector and government initiatives is vital
to Saudi Arabia’s talent development strategy. Companies such as Aramco, NEOM,
and Red Sea Global are working closely with educational institutions to design
training programs that meet industry-specific needs.
“Our partnerships ensure that Saudi youth gain practical, hands-on
experience while building a strong foundation for their careers,” Filemban
said. These collaborations also foster Saudization by reducing dependency on
expatriate labor and equipping local talent to fill high-demand roles.
Fostering Entrepreneurship
The Kingdom’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is flourishing, with government
initiatives and private-sector incubators like The Garage and Flat6Labs
providing young innovators with funding, mentorship, and technical support.
These programs are fostering a new generation of self-starters in industries
such as technology, gaming, and renewable energy.
“The rise of entrepreneurial interest among Saudi youth is a key driver of
economic growth and job creation,” said Al-Najjar, highlighting the role of
private-sector incubators in transforming innovative ideas into viable
businesses.
Building a Sustainable Workforce
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to workforce localization involves knowledge
transfer from foreign experts to Saudi nationals. Initiatives like Red Sea
Global’s Global Leader Program are equipping young Saudis with the skills
needed to take on leadership roles in tourism, renewable energy, and other
sectors aligned with Vision 2030.
“This approach fosters a culture of ownership and innovation, enabling
Saudis to take on roles across key industries,” Filemban explained.
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Attracting and Retaining Talent
To attract and retain skilled professionals, the Kingdom is focusing on
creating purpose-driven workplaces, expanding lifelong learning programs, and
offering incentives for career growth.
“Flexible workplaces and initiatives like remote working policies, wellness
programs, and inclusive environments are key to meeting the demands of today’s
workforce,” Al-Najjar said.
Expanding public-private partnerships for advanced training and enhancing
the appeal of fields like AI, cybersecurity, and clean energy will further
ensure Saudi Arabia remains a global talent hub.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite significant progress, challenges remain in aligning education with
industry needs. Vision 2030’s Human Capability Development Program aims to
address this gap by emphasizing practical and soft skills training.
Filemban noted, “One of the core challenges is bridging the gap between the
skills young Saudis acquire in educational institutions and the rapidly
evolving demands of the job market.”
Companies like Red Sea Global and PwC are working closely with universities
to ensure curricula are aligned with market requirements, preparing students
for seamless transitions into the workforce.
A Promising Future
Through strategic investments in education, training, and entrepreneurship,
Saudi Arabia is creating a robust talent ecosystem that not only nurtures local
youth but also positions the Kingdom as a global leader in innovation and
sustainability.
By empowering its youth, Saudi Arabia is transforming its economic
landscape, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to drive the Kingdom’s
ambitious goals beyond Vision 2030.
Source: Arab News
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