Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has opened registration for its new “azm” programme, designed to train and employ qualified Saudi youth in priority vocational fields.
Launched in partnership with the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF), the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC), Colleges of Excellence, and PIF-owned ROSHN Group, the programme aims to develop a new generation of Saudi talent with internationally recognised skills to meet the needs of PIF’s ecosystem, its partners and the wider Saudi economy.
The “azm” programme will award internationally recognised certificates and guarantee employment opportunities for those who complete the training.
Azm in Saudi Arabia
It currently offers specialisations in construction project management, facility management, and health, safety and environment.
Yazeed AlRashed, Head of the Planning and Partnerships Section in the National Development Division at PIF, said: “Human capital is a key component of PIF’s efforts to enhance local content and achieve sustainable economic and social development.
“The start of registration for the ‘azm’ programme reflects PIF’s commitment to developing national talent and keeping pace with the growing demand for expertise in promising strategic sectors.”
Colleges of Excellence will support the programme’s implementation and management, while ROSHN will contribute through governance, oversight, trainee recruitment and financing.
TVTC will develop training content, attract candidates and link them to job opportunities.
HRDF will provide employment-linked training and work with private-sector companies to place the first batch of graduates.
Vocational training
Participating firms in the first intake include:
- Saudi Binladin Group
- Muheel Company
- Jasara
- AlMabani
- AECOM
- Hassan Allam Holding
- FAMCO
- Nesma
PIF said it has created more than 1.1m direct and indirect jobs in Saudi Arabia and globally.
Alongside “azm”, the fund and its portfolio companies continue to invest in education and skills development.
Azm will support through initiatives such as the National Automotive and Vehicles Academy and the Graduate Development Programme. It also covers the Accelerated Manufacturing Programme, and the MUSAHAMA Design Competition.
