The Ministry Launches the Cybersecurity Skills Sectoral Council

On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development launched the 13th Sectoral Skills Council for Cybersecurity in collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Authority. The event took place at the Ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh and was attended by the Vice Minister for Labor, Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Abuthnain, the Governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority, Eng. Majid bin Mohammed Al-Mazyed, as well as other dignitaries and executive leaders from government and private sector entities.

During the launching ceremony, Dr. Abdullah Abuthnain highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to continuously developing skills across various sectors in the Kingdom. He noted that this initiative is an extension of the Sectoral Skills Councils Program launched in 2023, aimed at building an integrated skills ecosystem that aligns with market demands. The Cybersecurity Skills Council will address gaps between the skills required in the cybersecurity sector and the offerings of educational and training institutions. Additionally, it will develop reference frameworks to prepare, manage, and enhance the capabilities of the national workforce in cybersecurity.

The council will prioritize key areas, including professional cybersecurity services, cybersecurity products and solutions, technical implementation, and capacity-building and training services. Eng. Majid Al-Mazyed, Governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority, emphasized the importance of investing in human capital within this promising sector. He noted that the council will build on the achievements in developing the Kingdom's cybersecurity sector, fostering effective collaboration among the public sector, private sector, and educational institutions.

He stated, "The Authority, in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, will continue to activate the council to achieve its objectives, develop national capabilities in cybersecurity, and establish a secure and trustworthy Saudi cyberspace that fosters growth and prosperity."

The Cybersecurity Skills Council aims to enhance the skills of professionals in the field, support national institutions in identifying the required skills and standards, and address the current and future needs of the cybersecurity sector. This initiative will contribute to the Kingdom’s economic and social growth.

Last year, the Ministry approved 12 Sectoral Skills Councils to align with priority sectors' strategic needs and labor market dynamics. The Sectoral Skills Councils initiative is part of the National Labor Market Strategy, approved by the Council of Ministers' Resolution No. 254, dated 23/4/1442 AH. This initiative aims to improve workforce productivity, create an attractive labor market, and establish sustainable partnerships with government entities, the private sector, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to plan for and meet sector-specific skills demands.

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