Ministry of industry to announce soon strategy to develop human capabilities in industrial, mining sectors
Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Human Capacity Development, Eng. Faris Alsaqabi, revealed that the Ministry of Industry is poised to unveil a comprehensive strategy aimed at elevating human capabilities within the industrial and mining sectors.
Alsaqabi expressed confidence in the ministry’s formulation of strategic initiatives and national programs, signaling a commitment to realizing its ambitious goals.
During a visit to the Food Industries Institute in Al-Kharj, Alsaqabi, accompanied by Eng. Khaled Al-Shehri, Head of the Food Industry Sector at the National Center for Industrial Development, delved into the latest advancements in training and Saudization within the sector.
Alsaqabi emphasized ongoing negotiations with Saudi universities, academies, and institutes to streamline qualification processes and cultivate expertise that bolsters the Kingdom’s industrial sector. Notable collaborations include the establishment of a Mining Engineering Department at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Additionally, efforts are underway with Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, King Abdulaziz University, and King Saud University to foster specializations that encourage women’s active participation in the industrial landscape.
In a bid to instill an Industrial Revolution culture, Alsaqabi highlighted the ministry’s collaboration with the Ministry of Education to integrate skills relevant to the Fourth Industrial Revolution into school curricula. The focus is on preparing students for the technological advancements impacting industrial and mining sectors.
Alsaqabi underscored the Ministry of Industry’s commitment to lifelong learning, stressing the importance of sustaining education from kindergarten through various levels of schooling and university. This initiative aims to continuously enhance the efficiency and skills of industrial workers, ensuring they remain abreast of the latest Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.
Addressing the critical need for skilled professionals, Alsaqabi revealed the ministry’s ambitious target of creating 2.1 million jobs in the industrial and mining sectors. Proactive measures include identifying specialized scholarship pathways and supporting national programs and institutes, such as the exemplary Food Industries Institute in Al-Kharj—a model of sustainability driven by competent professionals earning the trust of major companies.
