Saudi Arabia has announced plans to establish a cutting-edge skill university in Pakistan, aiming to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers for its upcoming projects. This initiative was revealed by Pakistani state media, citing an official source, and is part of a broader effort to strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development is reportedly set to propose a special quota for Pakistani skilled and semi-skilled workers for projects such as NEOM and other ventures in Saudi Arabia. This move underscores a mutual commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and addressing the evolving needs of the labor market.
“The training of Pakistani workers to meet the rising needs of the Saudi labor market and enhance their skills and capabilities were also key points of discussion,” the report read, quoting the official.
The proposed skill university is expected to play a vital role in preparing Pakistani workers for various sectors, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. This strategic framework aims to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on oil and develop public service sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation, and tourism.
A high-level delegation visit is planned to further align Pakistan’s workforce with Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation program under Vision 2030. This initiative aims to foster a strong partnership between the two countries for mutual benefit.
Moreover, the visit intends to enhance remittances, which significantly contribute to Pakistan’s economy and the well-being of families reliant on these financial inflows. With over 2.7 million Pakistani expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom serves as the top destination for remittances, highlighting the deep-rooted relationship between the two nations.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share robust trade, defense, and fraternal relations, with Saudi Arabia playing a pivotal role in Pakistan’s economic development. The establishment of the state-of-the-art skill university signifies a significant step towards enhancing cooperation and creating new opportunities for both countries.
