KAUST's Machinist Development Apprenticeship Program (MDAP) graduated its second cohort in August 2020, training Saudi nationals in advanced manufacturing technologies. The 18-month program provides in-depth training at the Workshops Core Lab in collaboration with Yanbu Industrial College. Graduates acquire skills to contribute to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 in the manufacturing sector. Why it matters: This program addresses the need for skilled local talent in advanced manufacturing, crucial for diversifying the Saudi economy and achieving its Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST's Core Labs has launched a Machinist Apprenticeship Development Program. The program aims to train machinists. No further details about the program are provided in the announcement. Why it matters: This apprenticeship program could help develop skilled technical talent in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the Kingdom's technology and manufacturing sectors.
KAUST Discovery student Leen Al-Jefri presented a poster on broadband digital holographic memories. Another KAUST student, Aljazzy Alahmadi, worked with Professor Omar Abdulsaboor on charge career dynamics between perovskite nanocrystals and molecular acceptors. The work highlights opportunities for gifted Saudi students at KAUST. Why it matters: Developing local talent in advanced STEM fields is crucial for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST is highlighted as a key institution for training Saudi engineers to meet the Kingdom's industrial ambitions and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s 30% Saudization requirement. KAUST alumni Aishah Alsamdani and Saeed Alyousef are featured, demonstrating their contributions to Saudi Vision 2030 through roles in environmental management and energy sector solutions, respectively. They emphasize KAUST's role in equipping them with the skills, global mindset, and sense of responsibility necessary for national development. Why it matters: This underscores the strategic importance of STEM education and talent development in Saudi Arabia's economic diversification and localization efforts.
The Saudi Research Science Institute (SRSI) is preparing for its fifth annual summer program at KAUST, offering Saudi high school students university-level research experience under faculty mentorship. The program aims to introduce students to STEM fields and inspire them to pursue related education and careers. Lamees Alshaikh, a 2014 participant, conducted research on algae hormone biosynthesis, and Prof. Al Babili noted SRSI's role in recruiting top students to KAUST. Why it matters: This program cultivates domestic talent in STEM, directly contributing to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for a diversified, knowledge-based economy.