Saudi higher education institutes to focus more on AI, robotics: report

Higher education institutes in Saudi Arabia will offer courses on artificial intelligence (AI), robotic science, and renewable energy in the coming years, shifting focus from traditional subjects such as Islamic studies and business management, Colliers said in a recent report.

The Kingdom will also have to create additional 64,000 seats by 2030 in its higher education institutes, driven by growth of its young population and economic diversification program.

“Similar to other GCC countries, the Kingdom has a young population profile igniting sustainable demand for higher education in the long term,” said Mansoor Ahmed, director of healthcare, education and public private partnerships.

Currently, a total of 1.62 million students are enrolled at higher education institutes across the Kingdom.

Citing the population growth rate of 2.5% per annum estimated by Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), the report said total demand for higher education enrolment will reach 2.3 million in 2030, compared to 1.62 million in 2017.

In addition, the private sector will have to take the lead and focus on opening branch campuses of international universities, which is possible following the government allowing foreign universities branch campuses to operate in the country, the consultancy added.