Saudi’s KAUST, SIDF sign MoU to upskill local workforce

Saudi’s KAUST, SIDF sign MoU to upskill local workforce

THUWAL — King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) announced on Monday the signing of an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF) to providing training to SIDF members via two programs: the KAUST SME Maharat and the KAUST Academy.

The partnership aims to upskill the local workforce, help create new job opportunities for Saudi youth, and open avenues to new labor markets. Offering further training that supports the industrial sector, the agreement will also advance development, increase exports, diversify sources of income and expand production in Saudi Arabia, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

The industrial sector is growing rapidly in Saudi Arabia. This has created an urgent need to provide more training that can cultivate the skills of the local workforce. Additionally, due to shortages in certain areas in the industry, small and mid-size enterprises (SMEs) also find themselves in need of further training. Human resource development initiatives can address the industrial employee skills gap.

By joining forces, KAUST and SIDF will focus on both developing and improving industrial performance, while also increasing productivity and efficiency. With a focus on upskilling the local industry, the two will develop and deliver workshops and training schemes