Introduction
Within Saudi Arabia’s visionary narrative, Vision 2030 emerges as the cornerstone of a new era of growth and development. With the three primary themes: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation, it is a comprehensive roadmap designed to transform the nation, both economically and socially. As this vision draws closer, the Saudi landscape is undergoing radical changes, ushering in a new era where traditional skills and ideologies may no longer apply. In this prospect, Saudi youth must grasp the significance of their role in this transformative journey and understand how Vision 2030 will shape their future.
Vision 2030 is not merely a blueprint for economic diversification; it represents a holistic approach towards societal and cultural evolution. Crafted with the understanding that empowering the youth transcends mere opportunities, it aims to equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and mindset to steer the nation’s destiny.
In this article, I aim to elaborate on the three important factors the Saudi youth needs to be aware of today.
- Futureproofing: To allow the youth to confidently navigate, prepare, and achieve Vision 2030.
- Insight into 2030: Align personal goals with Saudi Arabia’s 2030 vision of a vibrant society, thriving economy, and ambitious nation.
- Recognizing Responsibilities: Realize the crucial role youth play in Vision 2030’s success, emphasizing the importance of their active participation.
Business and Economy
Saudi Arabia is rapidly developing smart cities and innovation hubs, bolstering digital infrastructure, and investing heavily in STEM fields. This commitment to technological advancement not only attracts global talent but also drives economic growth through innovation and efficiency. These initiatives pave the way for a diverse, knowledge-based economy, fostering sustainable development and competitiveness on the world stage.
Commitment to Modernization
Under the umbrella of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernization is poised to bring about a diversified economy, creating a myriad of career opportunities and revenue streams. This shift is not merely about adapting to technological advancements; it is a strategic move to position the nation competitively on the global stage. As artificial intelligence (including GenAI), robotics, and automation increasingly augment traditional roles, entirely new job categories are emerging, each demanding specialized skill sets.
Experience required in the job market is rapidly changing with a growing emphasis on technology-related skills such as data analysis, programming, and digital literacy. This transition presents both an opportunity and challenge for the Saudi workforce and while there are many new job opportunities to grab, there is also a need for more reskilling, upskilling, and education to succeed in the thriving job market.
Upskilling Initiatives
To bridge this gap, Saudi youth must take on the responsibility and upskill and reskill themselves accordingly by investing in future-proof skills, particularly in technology. Various initiatives are underway to assist youth in this journey, from vocational training programs to online learning platforms like the educated neighborhood programs. In particular, The Youth Training and Employment Program and Red Sea Global have been at the forefront of diversifying the economy by allowing youth to upskill in different workforce segments. These investments in human capital help drive upward mobility for Saudi youth climbing the corporate ladder.
It is important to realize upskilling is a shared responsibility among organizations, the government, and individuals alike. By embracing this responsibility, Saudi Arabia can ensure a skilled workforce ready for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
Saudi’s Social Ecosystem
Vision 2030 is not solely about reshaping Saudi Arabia’s economy; it is about transforming the fabric of our society. Beyond workforce development, Vision 2030 impacts our daily lives and is creating a vibrant society where individuals can thrive personally and professionally. Achieving this will allow Saudi citizens to pursue their passions, and push for the growth of the people in a modern socio-economic climate.
Reshaping the Cultural Landscape
Reforms like the liberalization of cultural rules and the modernization of government systems are fundamentally changing the daily lives of citizens and residents. These reforms aim to create a more open and inclusive cultural climate, fostering a society where innovation, creativity, and progress thrive. Brought in to reduce unemployment, the regulation change allowing companies to operate 24/7 breaks traditional barriers, promotes economic growth, and enhances social dynamics. It’s technology-empowered Saudi youth who will drive the cultural revolution and reshape our nation by embracing new ways of thinking and shaping the future of the nation.
Women & the Workforce
The transformation of Saudi Arabia’s societal norms is especially evident in the changes benefiting women. Female enrollment in previously male-only universities and postgraduate programs reflects a new era of inclusivity. These changes better position women in the job market and facilitate Vision 2030’s goal of achieving a 30% female Saudi workforce and creating 1 million new jobs for women.
In a remarkable effort, women’s workforce participation reached 37% in the first quarter of 2023, surpassing targets by seven years. This shift is a significant step in enhancing economic productivity and marks a mindset evolution in the workforce that fosters a more equitable and dynamic future.
Youth Empowerment
Saudi Arabia’s youth is a formidable asset, serving as the driving force behind the aspirations of Vision 2030. With over half of the Kingdom’s population under the age of 25, they embody a potent source of innovation, ideas, and progress.
Saudi Arabia’s Greatest Asset
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s commitment to empowering the youth in Saudi Arabia has led to groundbreaking reforms. The establishment of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) demonstrates the kingdom’s dedication to a vibrant economy, focusing on technology, entertainment, and tourism. These efforts align with ‘Vision 2030’ goals, emphasizing youth empowerment through innovation, education, and technology. As Saudi Arabia strides toward a resilient future, empowering its youth becomes pivotal for sustainable success. With skills and confidence, Saudi youth are poised to lead the nation’s transformation, fulfilling the promise of a visionary future.
Mindset Shift
Adopting a change mindset is imperative for Saudi youth to flourish in the evolving economic and social climate. This shift in mindset goes hand in hand with the empowerment of youth through education. Nurturing an “ambitious nation” envisioned by Vision 2030 necessitates cultivating a generation of leaders who are not only tech-savvy but also adaptable and future-ready.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s youth stand at the forefront of achieving and sustaining the ambitious goals of Vision 2030. They are not only shaping their own future but also Saudi Arabia’s trajectory. As our socio-economic landscape evolves, the next generations must be agile and embrace a change mindset to thrive in this dynamic environment. The changing economic landscape demands new skills and roles, making education and upskilling initiatives pivotal for success. Beyond policy reforms, the commitment to empowering youth reflects a belief in their potential as the kingdom’s most valuable resource.
This vision will lead to economic diversification, creating abundant opportunities for our nation’s prosperity. Together, they can build a resilient future, where innovation, growth, and prosperity thrive. Investing in skills of the future (i.e. tech) and adopting an agile change mindset will be the key to succeeding in Saudi Arabia’s evolving landscape.
