Saudi Arabia has initiated ‘Skills Week’ from July 13-19 aimed at training young individuals for job opportunities in alignment with market demands. The Waad Initiative sets a target to offer over 3 million training opportunities by 2028. A new Sector Skills Framework outlines 8,500+ skills categorized across 12 sectors.
National Vision & Strategic Framework
Under the newly formed Skills & Training Deputyship, Skills Week emphasizes collaboration between government bodies and private sectors to ensure a skills ecosystem focused on lifelong learning and demand fulfillment.
Flagship Initiatives & Milestones
Waad Training Initiative surpassed Phase I targets and is now aiming for 3 million training slots by 2028 through partnerships with public and private entities.
Sector Skills Framework & Councils
The introduction of the Sector Skills Framework that maps over 8,500 technical skills in 12 key sectors with support from 13 Sector Skills Councils led by industry experts to guide curriculum and training strategies.
Skills Survey & Taxonomy
Conducted surveys, backed by the World Bank, covering 3,000 nationwide companies to identify skills gaps and shape training programs. Implemented the Saudi Skills Classification Taxonomy to standardize skill definitions.
Waad Club & Volunteer Mentorship
Notable figures like Dr. Ahmed bin Abdullah Al-Zahrani describe the program as a crucial step towards establishing a complete national skills ecosystem to prepare capable youth for domestic growth and global competitiveness.
Broader Reform Agenda
Key programs include the Skill Accelerator Program targeting over 300,000 Saudis by 2027, the Professional Verification Program including 1,000+ professions in 160 countries, and reforms linking education to workforce needs for enhanced labor market outcomes.
Why It Matters
The initiatives aim to boost labour productivity, reduce skills mismatches, empower youth for better career opportunities, integrate the private sector for optimized employment pathways, and enhance overall competitiveness on a global scale.