Media Contact:
| ETS: | Kristen Mitchell |
|---|---|
| Email: | kmitchell002@ets.org |
| HCI: | Abdulkareem Albadran |
| Email: | aalbadran@hcdp.gov.sa |
PRINCETON, NJ, USA and RIYADH, KSA (April 13, 2025) – ETS, a global education and talent solutions organization and the Human Capability Initiative (HCI) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today released the 2025 Human Progress Report, the Saudi Arabia Edition, on the first day of HCI Conference in Riyadh.
The report delves into Saudi respondents’ perceptions of human progress, the ability to learn, adapt, and thrive amid rapid change, and why measuring it matters. It explores Saudi Arabia’s leadership in building a skills-first economy, highlighting strong optimism for lifelong learning, AI-driven skill development, and the growing importance of verifiable skills in workforce advancement.
The report examines Saudi perceptions of human progress, adaptability, and the role of verifiable skills in career advancement. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in developing a skills-first economy, with a strong emphasis on lifelong learning and AI-driven skill development. Saudi Arabia ranks third globally in the Upskilling and Reskilling Human Progress Index, with a score of 78.7 compared to the global benchmark of 102.1, behind only China and Vietnam. Additionally, 88% of Saudi respondents are optimistic about upskilling and reskilling opportunities by 2035, significantly higher than the global average of 65%. These findings underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering adaptability, innovation, and workforce readiness in an evolving economy.
“The Human Capability Development Program (HCDP) is shaping a future-ready workforce aligned to Vision 2030, and our Human Progress Report collaboration showcases Saudi Arabia’s drive to empower individuals with verifiable skills that unlock opportunity,” said Amit Sevak, CEO of ETS. “In a proof economy, the Kingdom is paving the way for a workforce built on proven capability.”
Some other key findings from the report include:
- Nearly 9 in 10 Saudi respondents' express optimism about upskilling opportunities and higher education prospects in the country over the next decade, compared to a global average of 6 in ten individuals
- Over 90% of Saudi respondents view lifelong learning as essential, with a strong emphasis on building durable skills like collaboration, communication, and leadership
- 78% of Saudi respondents hold at least one skills credential, compared to 67% globally, with 91% emphasizing ongoing learning as vital for career longevity – highlighting the demand for systems that recognize and support skill development.
- 91% of Saudi respondents believe certifying their skills improves their chances of securing better or higher-paying jobs and enhances their career trajectory – signaling the growing acceptance of skills-based assessments.
Eng. Anas Al Mudaifer, CEO of Human Capability Development Program (HCDP), one of the Vision 2030 Vision Programs, reinforced the importance of continuous learning: “Empowering people with the right skills is key to unlocking Saudi Arabia’s full economic potential. This report highlights our commitment to a workforce that is adaptable, innovative, and ready for the future.”
To learn more and download the report, visit https://www.ets.org/human-progress-report.html
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About ETS
ETS is a global education and talent solutions organization enabling lifelong learners to be future ready. We advance the science of measurement to build the benchmarks for fair and valid skill assessment. We are committed to powering human progress by promoting skill proficiency, empowering upward mobility and unlocking more opportunities for everyone, everywhere. Our assessment products – including the TOEFL, TOEIC, GRE, and Praxis Assessments – as well as our innovative solutions and subsidiaries help 50 million people each year to clarify their strengths and find opportunities for growth in education, work and beyond. We continue to operate around the world, with offices in 25 locations and operations in 200 countries and territories. www.ets.org
About the Human Capability Development Program (HCDP)
The Human Capability Development Program is one of the Vision 2030 Realization Programs with an aim to ensure that Saudi citizens have the required capabilities to compete globally by instilling values, developing basic and future skills, as well as enhancing knowledge. The program focuses on developing a solid educational base for all citizens to instil values from an early age, while preparing the youth for future local and global markets. It also focuses on upskilling citizens by providing lifelong learning opportunities, supporting innovation, encouraging entrepreneurship culture, developing policies to ensure Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness. https://www.vision2030.gov.sa/v2030/vrps/hcdp/
About HCI
HCI Website: https://humancapabilityinitiative.org