Saudi Gazette report

NEOM — NEOM, the visionary sustainable development project in northwest Saudi Arabia, has unveiled its ambitious plan to establish a world-class Education, Research, and Innovation (ERI) sector.

Building on its commitment to shaping a new future, NEOM is set to create a comprehensive ecosystem that fosters learning, research, and innovation at all stages of life.

Anchored by NEOM U, the flagship university led by Founding President Andreas Cangellaris, the ERI sector comprises four interconnected pillars.

These include the Education, Research, and Innovation Foundation, the Talent Academy, and a comprehensive early childhood to 12th-grade education program.

This multi-faceted approach aims to provide learners of all ages with unparalleled opportunities for education and personal growth.

The NEOM ERI sector stands out for its emphasis on practical, real-world skill development.

One of its cornerstones, the Talent Academy, will focus on continuous professional growth by offering upskilling and career-oriented learning opportunities.

These initiatives will be designed in collaboration with NEOM’s diverse range of industries, ensuring that learners remain adaptable and industry-ready.

NEOM’s academic programs and research endeavors will be closely aligned with societal challenges, reflecting the project’s strategic goals.

This approach will foster strong collaborations with global partners across emerging industries. A significant initiative within the ERI sector is the Applied Research Institute (ARI) program.

This initiative includes the NEOM Green Hydrogen and e-Fuels ARI, as well as the NEOM-KAUST Ocean Science and Solutions ARI. These programs mark the initial steps toward a future defined by innovation and sustainability.

Nadhmi Al-Nasr, CEO of NEOM, emphasized the significance of education as the cornerstone of society.

Al-Nasr stressed that NEOM’s commitment to education is aligned with Vision 2030, aiming to address global challenges and drive progress for years to come.

Andreas Cangellaris, founding president of NEOM U, highlighted education’s pivotal role in advancing society. He noted that NEOM’s unique position allows it to adopt cutting-edge educational theories and technological advancements, ensuring a future-focused learning experience.

Cangellaris expressed excitement about collaborating with industry leaders to establish a hub that promotes critical thinking and global progress.

The ERI sector’s curricula will empower students with digital fluency and critical thinking skills.

Through technology-driven approaches such as VR simulation training and experiential learning, students of all ages will develop practical expertise.

Leveraging NEOM’s “living laboratory” environment, graduates from NEOM U will possess the skills to design innovative solutions through hands-on experiences.

Anticipating the sector’s rapid growth, the Talent Academy will roll out its online programs by 2024. NEOM U is also on track to offer online classes as early as 2025, ensuring widespread access to its world-class educational offerings.