Arab News, Mon, Mar 11, 2024 | Ramadan 1, 1445
Ministries ink deal to integrate economics into Saudi school curriculum
Saudi Arabia:
Economics is set to be added to the Saudi school curriculum, thanks to an
agreement by two ministries designed to align education with workforce needs.
The memorandum of understanding, signed by
Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Al-Ibrahim and Minister of Education
Yousef Al-Benyan, aims to introduce students to the importance of economics and
public policy specializations to meet the labor market requirements.
The MoU also aims to attract scholarship students
and graduates according to the needs and directions of the Ministry of Economy
and Planning and develop educational content to align with the Kingdom’s goals.
The two ministries collaborated on scholarship
programs encompassing public policy, public administration, economics, and
various other disciplines. Additionally, they worked on enhancing cooperation in
other areas.
On a technological note, during the Human
Capability Initiative in February, Al-Benyan stated that global estimates
suggest technology adoptions and expansion are poised to transform 70 percent of
business practices worldwide.
“As economists continue to navigate this dynamic
labor market landscape, it is more critical than ever to work inclusively to
promote positive human capability outcomes,” the minister said.
He emphasized the importance of harnessing human
potential in a world that is constantly changing. Furthermore, he highlighted
the need to address evolving labor market dynamics both locally and globally.
Al-Benyan mentioned that Saudi Arabia’s Human
Capability Development Program, which encompasses strategies across all stages
of learning, from early childhood to lifelong learning, aims to unleash
individuals’ full potential.
Furthermore, he underscored the importance of
collaboration between the government, private sector, and non-profit
organizations to ensure success and prosperity for all.
“To make these efforts a reality, Saudi Arabia
will come working with all partners to explore opportunities and promote
innovative policy design and solutions advancing human capability,” Al-Benyan
added.
During the conference, Saudi Arabia officially
joined the Global Partnership for Education fund, making a $38 million
contribution.
This is the largest fund exclusively dedicated to
enhancing the performance of the education sector in low-income and
middle-income countries.