Saudi Arabia’s Technological Infrastructure ‘on Par’ with Global Standards

JEDDAH — The technological infrastructure in Saudi Arabia has grown in line with global standards, but the related dissemination of information has room for further growth and development, according to Basil M. Al Ghalayani, founder and Chief Executive Officer of BMG Financial Advisors.

By Our Correspondent

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Published: Sat 26 Sep 2009, 10:21 PM

Last updated: Sun 5 Apr 2015, 10:04 PM

Al Ghalayani told Khaleej Times in an interview that the private sector, as expected, operates in an open competitive market and has behaved accordingly. He said that this naturally has played an important role in national development and there is active participation in corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken by a few local businesses. “The private sector will realise significant benefits from the increase in availability of local skilled workforce which will be a result of developments in education,” he said.

He explained that the business environment created since the early formation of the kingdom has facilitated the growth and development of commerce and the local economy. This is coupled with the existence of a wealth of natural resources. Industry has grown initially in support of the oil sector but the evolution has seen a spurt in other sectors such as food and agriculture, auto assembly and mining of other natural resources. Recent years have also witnessed the establishment of universities, both public and private that aim to enrich the quality and contributions of our people. Al Ghalayani said that still there is heavy dependence imported skills. The establishment of universities and vocational schools will gradually develop the skills base locally and will in turn reduce unemployment levels. “Again the availability of varied forms of education will avail more opportunities for youth to participate effectively in the nation’s development. This can be further enhanced by availing opportunities for youth to work early on in their late teens. This can be achieved by requiring them to attain certain credits by working or volunteering during their high school years,” he added.

· habib@khaleejtimes.com


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