{"id":6689,"date":"2024-11-23T20:03:14","date_gmt":"2024-11-23T16:03:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.matsh.co\/en\/skills-gap-and-training-needs-by-industry-in-the-gulf-region\/"},"modified":"2024-11-24T00:15:15","modified_gmt":"2024-11-23T20:15:15","slug":"skills-gap-and-training-needs-by-industry-in-the-gulf-region","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/skills-gap-and-training-needs-by-industry-in-the-gulf-region\/","title":{"rendered":"Skills Gap and Training Needs by Industry in the Gulf Region"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies are changing fast. We need to ask: Are we ready for the new skills needed in the region? The answer is tied to how the public and private sectors work together and education prepares the workforce<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/acacialearning.com\/sa\/blog\/learning-and-development\/how-ld-can-bridge-skills-talent-gaps-in-the-middle-east\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Did you know only 35% of public sector workers in the Middle East have the right skills<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/acacialearning.com\/sa\/blog\/learning-and-development\/how-ld-can-bridge-skills-talent-gaps-in-the-middle-east\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>? This shows we really need better training and upskilling. Also, 61% of people in the Middle East think their jobs will change a lot in the next five years. They will need new skills for these changes<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/acacialearning.com\/sa\/blog\/learning-and-development\/how-ld-can-bridge-skills-talent-gaps-in-the-middle-east\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>The Gulf region&#8217;s economy is changing a lot. We must tackle the skills gap now. How can we make sure the local workforce can help grow and innovate in areas like oil and gas, construction, finance, healthcare, and tourism<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/future-training-industry-gcc-areas-overcoming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">2<\/a><\/sup>?<\/p>\n<h3>Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The Gulf region faces a significant skills gap, with only 35% of public sector employees possessing the right skills for their jobs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/acacialearning.com\/sa\/blog\/learning-and-development\/how-ld-can-bridge-skills-talent-gaps-in-the-middle-east\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n<li>61% of Middle Eastern workers expect their jobs to undergo major changes in the next five years, requiring new skills and capabilities<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/acacialearning.com\/sa\/blog\/learning-and-development\/how-ld-can-bridge-skills-talent-gaps-in-the-middle-east\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n<li>Specialized knowledge and skills are in high demand across key industries in the GCC, including oil and gas, construction, finance, healthcare, and tourism<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/future-training-industry-gcc-areas-overcoming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n<li>The <b>GCC training industry<\/b> is experiencing growth and transformation, with both public and private institutes offering a wide range of training courses and certifications<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/future-training-industry-gcc-areas-overcoming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n<li>Challenges in the <b>GCC training industry<\/b> include a lack of skilled trainers, language barriers, limited access to technology, and high training costs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/future-training-industry-gcc-areas-overcoming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Current State of Gulf Region&#8217;s Labor Market<\/h2>\n<p>The <b>Gulf labor market<\/b> is facing big challenges. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.meed.com\/the-gcc-skills-gap\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Locals want government jobs<\/a> because they offer good pay and benefits. But, <b>expatriate workers<\/b> fill most <b>private sector jobs<\/b><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/remote-work-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>This setup worked when the population was small and oil money was plentiful. But now, it&#8217;s putting too much strain on government budgets<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/remote-work-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>This imbalance affects the economy a lot. It makes it hard to diversify and creates a skills gap. Saudi Arabia has spent about $15 billion on tech since 2017 to help with remote work<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/zoetalentsolutions.com\/project-management-employment-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">4<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>But, the region needs to change education, training, and labor policies. This is to better match public and <b>private sector jobs<\/b>.<\/p>\n<h3>Expatriate Workforce Dominance<\/h3>\n<p><b>Expatriate workers<\/b> are a big part of the Gulf&#8217;s private sector. The region&#8217;s population grew by over 18% from 2012 to 2022. This has led to a big need for skilled project managers<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/zoetalentsolutions.com\/project-management-employment-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">4<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>This reliance on expats affects economic growth and sustainability. The region struggles to keep local talent and meet industry needs.<\/p>\n<h3>Economic Impact of the Current Employment Model<\/h3>\n<p>The current job model has big economic effects. The <a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/most-in-demand-job-roles-in-2024-in-dubai\/\">UAE&#8217;s tech spending<\/a> is growing fast, expected to hit $23 billion by 2024<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/remote-work-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>. This shows the region&#8217;s push to modernize and diversify.<\/p>\n<p>But, relying too much on expats in the private sector is a problem. It makes it hard to build a skilled local workforce and achieve sustainable growth.<\/p>\n<p>To move forward, the Gulf needs to find a balance between public and private jobs. Using both local and expatriate talent is key for lasting economic success and diversification<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/remote-work-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/zoetalentsolutions.com\/project-management-employment-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">4<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Educational System Challenges in GCC Countries<\/h2>\n<p>The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have big educational challenges. Qatar is 4th in education quality globally<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>, but Kuwait is 106th<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>. Many kids in the area struggle to learn basic skills, with 70% of Kuwaiti students failing primary school math tests<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Their curriculums are often old-fashioned, focusing on memorization. They don&#8217;t teach important skills for today&#8217;s world<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Now, GCC governments are working to fix their schools. They&#8217;re changing curriculums, improving vocational training, and training teachers better<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>. In the last 10 years, they&#8217;ve teamed up with the private sector for research and curriculum making<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>. But, most college education in the GCC is still classroom-based, not connected to real jobs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>The UK&#8217;s vocational learning system is a good example for the GCC<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>. The UK&#8217;s &#8216;Leitch Report&#8217; in 2008 also talked about matching skills with employer needs for better global competition<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>. Studies show that work-based learning boosts job market success<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>The GCC needs more tech experts, especially in Cybersecurity, Machine Learning, AI, and Data Analytics<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>. Apprenticeships and work-based learning are seen as ways to fill this gap, especially in tech jobs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>. Etio (formerly Tribal Education Services) has helped with work-based learning in the GCC for over 15 years<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">5<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>This review didn&#8217;t find studies on generic skills in the GCC<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>. It aims to find and summarize studies on generic skills in the GCC<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Studies show generic skills are key for success in school and work. They help in getting jobs, improving health, and social well-being<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>. The review highlights the need for these skills in today&#8217;s job market<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Even though GCC graduates know the value of generic skills, they&#8217;re not taught enough in school<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>. More focus on these skills in higher education could lead to better job outcomes for GCC students<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Generic skills help in getting jobs, improving health, and social well-being<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">6<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Skills Gap and Training Needs by Industry in the Gulf Region<\/h2>\n<p>The Gulf region has big skill shortages in many areas, especially in new industries. There&#8217;s a big need for digital skills and special knowledge in fields like oil and gas, construction, finance, healthcare, and tourism<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. Training needs are changing fast, so workers must keep learning new skills<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. This gap makes it hard to diversify the economy because many locals don&#8217;t have the right skills for jobs outside of oil<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Critical Skill Shortages by Sector<\/h3>\n<p>In oil and gas, there&#8217;s a shortage of skilled techs, engineers, and data analysts for digital changes<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. Construction is missing project managers, BIM experts, and <a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/course\/youth-and-sustainable-development-strategies\/\">sustainable building<\/a> pros<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. Finance needs people skilled in financial tech, risk management, and data analysis<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. Healthcare is short on nurses, IT experts, and medical researchers<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. Tourism is looking for hospitality managers, digital marketers, and language experts<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Industry-Specific Training Requirements<\/h3>\n<p>To fix these skill gaps, special training programs are needed<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. These programs should teach both technical and soft skills like problem-solving and adaptability<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. Working together between schools, industry groups, and governments is key to making sure training meets job market needs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Impact on Economic Diversification<\/h3>\n<p>The skills gap is a big problem for <b>economic diversification<\/b> in the Gulf region<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. Many young locals don&#8217;t have the skills to move from public to private jobs, especially in new fields<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>. To solve this, targeted training and development programs are vital for diversifying the economy and reducing oil dependence<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">7<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Sector<\/th>\n<th>Critical Skill Shortages<\/th>\n<th>Training Requirements<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Oil and Gas<\/td>\n<td>Skilled technicians, engineers, data analysts<\/td>\n<td>Digital skills, technical expertise, data analytics<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Construction<\/td>\n<td>Project managers, BIM specialists, sustainable building experts<\/td>\n<td>Project management, BIM, sustainable construction<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Finance<\/td>\n<td>Financial technology, risk management, data analytics<\/td>\n<td>FinTech, risk management, data analytics<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Healthcare<\/td>\n<td>Nurses, healthcare IT specialists, medical researchers<\/td>\n<td>Nursing, healthcare IT, medical research<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Tourism<\/td>\n<td>Hospitality managers, digital marketers, language specialists<\/td>\n<td>Hospitality management, digital marketing, language skills<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-6691\" title=\"Gulf Region Skills Gap\" src=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gulf-Region-Skills-Gap-2-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"Gulf Region Skills Gap\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gulf-Region-Skills-Gap-2-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gulf-Region-Skills-Gap-2-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gulf-Region-Skills-Gap-2-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gulf-Region-Skills-Gap-2.jpg 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Government Initiatives for Workforce Development<\/h2>\n<p>In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, governments are working hard to solve <b>workforce development<\/b> problems<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">8<\/a><\/sup>. They want to fill skill gaps, get more locals working in private jobs, and match people&#8217;s skills with the economy&#8217;s needs.<\/p>\n<p>One big strategy is setting rules for hiring locals in different jobs. For example, Saudi Arabia&#8217;s Ninth Development Plan put SR731.5bn ($195bn) towards improving people&#8217;s skills<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">8<\/a><\/sup>. Plans like Abu Dhabi&#8217;s Economic Vision 2030 and Qatar&#8217;s National Vision 2030 also focus on education and skills for economic growth<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">8<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>To encourage private companies to hire locals, GCC governments offer money help and other perks. But, getting more locals in private jobs is tough. In the UAE, for instance, expats made up 80% of <b>private sector jobs<\/b> in 2004, and by 2009, it was 99.57%<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu\/cgi\/viewcontent.cgi?article=1222&amp;context=etd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">9<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Despite these hurdles, GCC governments keep pushing to improve their national workforce. They invest in education, create special training programs, and work with private companies. Their goal is to have a skilled workforce that helps the economy grow and thrive.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-6692\" title=\"GCC workforce development\" src=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-workforce-development-2-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"GCC workforce development\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-workforce-development-2-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-workforce-development-2-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-workforce-development-2-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-workforce-development-2.jpg 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Indicator<\/th>\n<th>Value<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Average percentage of digital jobs in GCC (2015)<\/td>\n<td>1.7%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Average percentage of digital jobs in EU (2015)<\/td>\n<td>5.4%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Job gap for GCC nationals by 2025<\/td>\n<td>3.1 million<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Proportion of digital jobs held by nationals in Qatar<\/td>\n<td>13%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Proportion of digital jobs held by nationals in UAE<\/td>\n<td>5%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Percentage of digital jobs in UAE<\/td>\n<td>2.9%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The GCC region has a big problem with digital skills, with only 1.7% of jobs being digital in 2015. This is much lower than the European Union&#8217;s 5.4%<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">8<\/a><\/sup>. Also, very few locals work in digital jobs, with Qataris holding 13% and Emiratis holding 5%<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">8<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>To fix these issues, GCC governments are starting many projects. They are investing in education, creating special training, and working with private companies. Their goal is to make sure the local workforce has the skills needed for the digital economy<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">8<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu\/cgi\/viewcontent.cgi?article=1222&amp;context=etd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">9<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Digital Transformation and Skills Requirements<\/h2>\n<p>The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is moving fast into <b>digital transformation<\/b>. This means they need more <a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/youth-work-blog\/the-role-of-technology-in-youth-career-guidance\/\">tech skills<\/a> quickly<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/incit.org\/en\/thought-leadership\/digitally-transforming-the-gulf-cooperation-council-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">10<\/a><\/sup>. But, they face a big problem because they don&#8217;t have enough digital talent yet<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fsoc.2022.959091\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">11<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Only 1.7% of jobs in the GCC are digital, compared to 5.4% in the European Union. This shows a big gap in <b>technology adoption<\/b> and digital skills<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fsoc.2022.959091\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">11<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Technology Adoption Challenges<\/h3>\n<p>The Gulf region&#8217;s digital journey has many obstacles. Change resistance and lack of infrastructure slow things down<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/incit.org\/en\/thought-leadership\/digitally-transforming-the-gulf-cooperation-council-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">10<\/a><\/sup>. But, governments are trying hard to overcome these issues.<\/p>\n<p>Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Saudi Arabia are working on digital strategies. They aim to boost digital progress and adoption<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/incit.org\/en\/thought-leadership\/digitally-transforming-the-gulf-cooperation-council-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">10<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Digital Literacy Needs<\/h3>\n<p>The GCC countries need to close the digital skills gap to stay competitive<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fsoc.2022.959091\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">11<\/a><\/sup>. Most digital workers in the GCC are foreign graduates. But, they must focus on local talent for long-term success<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fsoc.2022.959091\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">11<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Programs like One Million Arab Coders and Microsoft Cloud Society&#8217;s training are helping. Yet, more efforts are needed to upskill the local workforce<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cio.com\/article\/220316\/filling-the-mena-it-skills-gap.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">12<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Future Technology Skills Demand<\/h3>\n<p>The GCC&#8217;s economy is changing, and so are the tech skills needed<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cio.com\/article\/220316\/filling-the-mena-it-skills-gap.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">12<\/a><\/sup>. By 2025, the MENA region might see a big shift in job demands. Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia could gain thousands of new jobs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cio.com\/article\/220316\/filling-the-mena-it-skills-gap.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">12<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Skills like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity will be in high demand. The workforce must keep learning to stay ahead<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/incit.org\/en\/thought-leadership\/digitally-transforming-the-gulf-cooperation-council-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">10<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-6693\" title=\"digital transformation\" src=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/digital-transformation-2-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"digital transformation\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/digital-transformation-2-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/digital-transformation-2-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/digital-transformation-2-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/digital-transformation-2.jpg 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The Gulf region&#8217;s digital journey is speeding up. But, the workforce must adapt fast to keep up with technology. Closing the digital skills gap and investing in future skills are key for GCC countries&#8217; success<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/incit.org\/en\/thought-leadership\/digitally-transforming-the-gulf-cooperation-council-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">10<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fsoc.2022.959091\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">11<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cio.com\/article\/220316\/filling-the-mena-it-skills-gap.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">12<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Role of Private Sector in Training Development<\/h2>\n<p>The private sector is key in solving skills gaps in the Gulf. Companies are now investing more in training their employees<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. The GCC Soft Skills Training market was worth US$ 570.5 million in 2023. It&#8217;s expected to hit US$ 1,566.9 million by 2032, growing at 11.88% annually<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Soft skills training boosts skills like communication and teamwork. It also improves problem-solving and time management<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;s a rise in partnerships between industries and schools to make learning relevant<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. The market grows because companies focus on employee growth, governments support it, and industries adopt these trainings<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. Key sectors like hospitality and healthcare benefit from these trainings<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Economic growth and improving human skills drive the GCC&#8217;s soft skills market<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Saudi Aramco has a College Preparatory Programme to link secondary and tertiary education<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. Private universities in Saudi Arabia focus on skills like IT and management<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. The need for better employability and career growth boosts soft skills training<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Communication and productivity are top soft skills in demand. Corporate providers lead in soft skills training<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Metric<\/th>\n<th>Value<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>GCC Soft Skills Training Market Size (2023)<\/td>\n<td>US$ 570.5 million<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Projected GCC Soft Skills Training Market Size (2032)<\/td>\n<td>US$ 1,566.9 million<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Projected Growth Rate (CAGR 2024-2032)<\/td>\n<td>11.88%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The private sector&#8217;s role in training is vital. It helps bridge skills gaps and prepares the Gulf&#8217;s workforce for the future<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elibrary.imf.org\/view\/journals\/007\/2013\/088\/article-A001-en.xml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">14<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/future-training-industry-gcc-areas-overcoming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-6694\" title=\"private sector training\" src=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/private-sector-training-2-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"private sector training\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/private-sector-training-2-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/private-sector-training-2-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/private-sector-training-2-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/private-sector-training-2.jpg 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Vocational Education and Technical Training<\/h2>\n<p>In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, vocational education and technical training are becoming more important. This is because there&#8217;s a big need for a skilled workforce<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/press-release\/2023\/07\/12\/improve-technical-vocational-education-training-tvet-meet-skills-labour-mismatch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">15<\/a><\/sup>. With a <a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/youth-employment-statistics-in-africa\/\">global youth unemployment rate<\/a> of 16 percent in 2022<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/press-release\/2023\/07\/12\/improve-technical-vocational-education-training-tvet-meet-skills-labour-mismatch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">15<\/a><\/sup>, GCC countries are investing in better vocational training.<\/p>\n<h3>Current Infrastructure<\/h3>\n<p>The state of vocational education in the GCC countries is different. Some have invested in top-notch training facilities. Others are working to improve the quality and reach of their programs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/oxfordbusinessgroup.com\/reports\/philippines\/-report\/economy\/on-the-job-development-and-promotion-of-technical-and-vocational-training-key-to-improving-employment-rates-9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">16<\/a><\/sup>. Governments are focusing on making vocational training match the needs of the job market.<\/p>\n<h3>Industry Partnerships<\/h3>\n<p>Strong partnerships between the public and private sectors are key for vocational education in the GCC<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/oxfordbusinessgroup.com\/reports\/philippines\/-report\/economy\/on-the-job-development-and-promotion-of-technical-and-vocational-training-key-to-improving-employment-rates-9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">16<\/a><\/sup>. Working together, schools and companies make sure training meets job needs. These partnerships also offer practical training and help graduates find jobs.<\/p>\n<h3>Success Metrics<\/h3>\n<p>Measuring success in vocational education in the GCC is complex<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/oxfordbusinessgroup.com\/reports\/philippines\/-report\/economy\/on-the-job-development-and-promotion-of-technical-and-vocational-training-key-to-improving-employment-rates-9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">16<\/a><\/sup>. It looks at how many graduates get jobs, if training meets industry needs, and its impact on the economy<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/press-release\/2023\/07\/12\/improve-technical-vocational-education-training-tvet-meet-skills-labour-mismatch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">15<\/a><\/sup>. Governments aim to improve the quality and image of vocational education to attract more students.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-6695\" title=\"GCC vocational training\" src=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-vocational-training-2-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"GCC vocational training\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-vocational-training-2-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-vocational-training-2-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-vocational-training-2-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/GCC-vocational-training-2.jpg 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>By investing in better training, building strong partnerships, and tracking success, the GCC is on the right path. They aim to create a skilled workforce that drives economic growth and diversification<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/press-release\/2023\/07\/12\/improve-technical-vocational-education-training-tvet-meet-skills-labour-mismatch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">15<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/oxfordbusinessgroup.com\/reports\/philippines\/-report\/economy\/on-the-job-development-and-promotion-of-technical-and-vocational-training-key-to-improving-employment-rates-9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">16<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Higher Education&#8217;s Response to Market Needs<\/h2>\n<p>In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, schools are changing to meet labor market needs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>. They are working with industries to create curricula that match job requirements, especially in STEM fields<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Many international universities have opened branches in places like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>. This helps share knowledge and gives students a global view<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>But, the quality of education in the GCC is a worry, with only two Saudi universities in the top rankings<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>. Schools are trying harder to work with industries to make sure students have the right skills<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Governments are pushing for a change in how people see education<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>. They want to move away from thinking a bachelor&#8217;s degree is the only way to get a job<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>. Now, there&#8217;s a focus on showing employers that you have the skills, through smaller, skills-based credentials<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>The GCC countries are working to make their economies more diverse and less dependent on foreign workers<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>. Higher education is key in providing a skilled workforce<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>. By working closely with industries and creating curricula that match the job market, schools are helping to fill the skills gap and build a better future<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">17<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Impact of International Partnerships and Training Centers<\/h2>\n<p>The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are working hard to make their economies better<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>. They are using international partnerships and training centers to fill skills gaps. This helps improve education and <b>workforce development<\/b><sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Knowledge Transfer Programs<\/h3>\n<p>Knowledge transfer programs help share skills and ideas between the GCC and top global institutions<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>. These programs bring new knowledge and teaching methods. They help update the education system and meet labor market needs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Cross-Border Educational Initiatives<\/h3>\n<p>Places like Qatar&#8217;s Education City bring top universities to the region<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>. They offer GCC nationals and expats access to <a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/top-countries-for-higher-education-in-africa\/\">world-class education<\/a>. But, keeping quality high across all campuses is a big challenge<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>The GCC wants to move away from oil and gas by diversifying their economy<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>. They aim to improve education and training in key sectors. International partnerships and training centers can help with this<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Indicator<\/th>\n<th>GCC Average<\/th>\n<th>Global Average<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Population Growth<\/td>\n<td>1.2 &#8211; 1.6 million by 2018<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elibrary.imf.org\/view\/journals\/007\/2013\/088\/article-A001-en.xml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">14<\/a><\/sup><\/td>\n<td>N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Private Sector Employment of Nationals<\/td>\n<td>About 600,000 jobs by 2018<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elibrary.imf.org\/view\/journals\/007\/2013\/088\/article-A001-en.xml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">14<\/a><\/sup><\/td>\n<td>N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Unemployment Rate among Nationals<\/td>\n<td>Over 80% of private sector jobs held by expatriates<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elibrary.imf.org\/view\/journals\/007\/2013\/088\/article-A001-en.xml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">14<\/a><\/sup><\/td>\n<td>N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>FDI Inflows<\/td>\n<td>1.1% of GDP<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/articles\/economic-diversification-in-the-gulf-time-to-redouble-efforts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">19<\/a><\/sup><\/td>\n<td>2.5% of GDP<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/articles\/economic-diversification-in-the-gulf-time-to-redouble-efforts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">19<\/a><\/sup><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The Ministries of Education in the GCC countries are working hard to create a skilled workforce<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>. But, there are still challenges in the education sector<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>. Improving student readiness, teacher quality, and curriculum relevance is key<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>The World Bank has a lot of experience in the GCC and is a key partner for education<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">18<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Youth Employment and Skills Development<\/h2>\n<p>In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, finding jobs for young people is a big challenge. There&#8217;s a huge number of young people, and they need skills for the job market<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/book\/8138\/chapter\/153622440\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">20<\/a><\/sup>. Governments and businesses are working together to help. They focus on teaching entrepreneurship, digital skills, and soft skills<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Youth_Unemployment_MENA_English_Web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">21<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>A survey by Booz &amp; Co showed that only 19% of GCC youth felt ready for the job market<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/book\/8138\/chapter\/153622440\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">20<\/a><\/sup>. This shows a big gap between what schools teach and what employers want. To fix this, governments and businesses are starting new programs and partnerships.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Entrepreneurship initiatives<\/b>: Programs that provide training, mentorship, and funding to support young entrepreneurs in launching their own businesses.<\/li>\n<li>Digital <b>skills development<\/b>: Courses and workshops aimed at <a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/youth-work-blog\/what-is-youth-emotional-development\/\">equipping youth<\/a> with in-demand technological skills, such as coding, data analysis, and digital marketing.<\/li>\n<li>Soft skills enhancement: Workshops and training sessions focused on developing essential skills like communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These efforts aim to bridge the skills gap and improve GCC youth&#8217;s job chances. This will help the region grow and diversify its economy<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/book\/8138\/chapter\/153622440\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">20<\/a><\/sup>. Investing in youth skills is key for the GCC&#8217;s future success.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Country<\/th>\n<th>Youth Unemployment Rate<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Palestine<\/td>\n<td>44%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Saudi Arabia<\/td>\n<td>28.7%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Jordan<\/td>\n<td>36.6%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Tunisia<\/td>\n<td>35.8%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Even in countries like Qatar, young people face job challenges<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Youth_Unemployment_MENA_English_Web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">21<\/a><\/sup>. High youth unemployment in the MENA region is due to many reasons. These include a big demographic wave, weak education, and a lack of job information<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Youth_Unemployment_MENA_English_Web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">21<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Future Workforce Trends and Requirements<\/h2>\n<p>The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is changing fast. The <strong>GCC future workforce<\/strong> will need new skills by 2030. These skills will shape the region&#8217;s economy.<\/p>\n<h3>Emerging Industries<\/h3>\n<p>The GCC is growing in fields like renewable energy, AI, and biotechnology. <em>These emerging industries<\/em> will boost the region&#8217;s growth and jobs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/riserelay.com\/the-future-of-work-in-the-gcc-trends-and-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">22<\/a><\/sup>. More people will work remotely, needing skills in AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, and cloud computing<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/riserelay.com\/the-future-of-work-in-the-gcc-trends-and-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">22<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h3>Required Skill Sets for 2030<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>2030 skill requirements<\/strong> in the GCC will mix technical and soft skills. Skills like adaptability, critical thinking, and lifelong learning will be key<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/issues\/upskilling\/hopes-and-fears-2023.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">23<\/a><\/sup>. In the Gulf Region, 52% of workers think their jobs will change a lot in 5 years<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/issues\/upskilling\/hopes-and-fears-2023.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">23<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>Green skills and digital competencies are also important for future jobs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/issues\/upskilling\/hopes-and-fears-2023.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">23<\/a><\/sup>. 62% of Gulf Region workers see green skills as crucial, more than the global average<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/issues\/upskilling\/hopes-and-fears-2023.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">23<\/a><\/sup>. Also, 75% of Gulf Region workers focus on digital skills for their careers in 5 years, more than globally<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/issues\/upskilling\/hopes-and-fears-2023.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">23<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>As the GCC looks to the future, investing in a skilled and adaptable workforce is vital. This will help diversify the economy and ensure prosperity for years to come.<\/p>\n<h2>Training Industry Challenges and Opportunities<\/h2>\n<p>The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) training industry has big challenges. These include a lack of skilled trainers, language barriers, and limited tech access in some places. <a href=\"https:\/\/trainingindustry.com\/articles\/compliance\/addressing-the-environmental-industry-skills-gap-a-case-study-in-green-job-training\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Despite these obstacles<\/a>, it&#8217;s full of chances, especially in e-learning and online training<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<p>The GCC Soft Skills Training market size was US$ 570.5 million in 2023. IMARC Group says it will hit US$ 1,566.9 million by 2032, growing 11.88% yearly<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. This growth comes from the need for <b>economic diversification<\/b> and better human capital<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. New tech has made learning more personal, helping workers learn better and remember more.<\/p>\n<p>The industry is also seeing a big rise in e-learning. This makes learning flexible, affordable, and available to more people in the GCC. Working with global training providers is becoming more common, bringing in new ideas and methods<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>. As jobs change, the training industry is changing too, offering programs that meet new skill needs<sup class=\"citation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">13<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n<h2>Source Links<\/h2>\n<ol data-type=\"sources\">\n<li>How L&amp;D Can Bridge Skills &amp; Talent Gaps in the Middle East | Learning and Development &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/acacialearning.com\/sa\/blog\/learning-and-development\/how-ld-can-bridge-skills-talent-gaps-in-the-middle-east\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/acacialearning.com\/sa\/blog\/learning-and-development\/how-ld-can-bridge-skills-talent-gaps-in-the-middle-east\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li>The Future of the Training Industry in GCC Areas Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/future-training-industry-gcc-areas-overcoming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/future-training-industry-gcc-areas-overcoming<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Remote work statistics in the Gulf Region 2024 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/remote-work-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/remote-work-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Project Management Employment Statistics in the Gulf Region &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/zoetalentsolutions.com\/project-management-employment-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/zoetalentsolutions.com\/project-management-employment-statistics-in-the-gulf-region\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li>The Adapting Role of Work-Based Learning in the GCC &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/blog.etioglobal.org\/blog\/the-adapting-role-of-work-based-learning-in-the-gcc<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Article &#8211; Kne Open &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/kneopen.com\/gespr\/article\/view\/9309<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Gulf News cites our Work on Skills Gaps in the Arab World &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/tahseen.ae\/insights\/gulf-news-cites-our-work-on-skills-gaps-in-the-arab-world\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Empowering the GCC digital workforce | Strategy&amp; Middle East &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.strategyand.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/reports\/empowering-the-gcc-digital-workforce-full-report.pdf<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Emiratization: United Arab Emirates&#8217; national workforce development program &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu\/cgi\/viewcontent.cgi?article=1222&amp;context=etd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu\/cgi\/viewcontent.cgi?article=1222&amp;context=etd<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Digitally transforming the Gulf Cooperation Council region &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/incit.org\/en\/thought-leadership\/digitally-transforming-the-gulf-cooperation-council-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/incit.org\/en\/thought-leadership\/digitally-transforming-the-gulf-cooperation-council-region\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Frontiers | The labor market in the digital era: What matters for the Gulf Cooperation Council countries? &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fsoc.2022.959091\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fsoc.2022.959091\/full<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Filling the MENA IT Skills Gap &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cio.com\/article\/220316\/filling-the-mena-it-skills-gap.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.cio.com\/article\/220316\/filling-the-mena-it-skills-gap.html<\/a><\/li>\n<li>GCC Soft Skills Training Market Size, Growth, Trends 2024 32 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.imarcgroup.com\/gcc-soft-skills-training-market<\/a><\/li>\n<li>No title found &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.elibrary.imf.org\/view\/journals\/007\/2013\/088\/article-A001-en.xml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.elibrary.imf.org\/view\/journals\/007\/2013\/088\/article-A001-en.xml<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Improve Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to meet skills and labour mismatch &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/press-release\/2023\/07\/12\/improve-technical-vocational-education-training-tvet-meet-skills-labour-mismatch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/press-release\/2023\/07\/12\/improve-technical-vocational-education-training-tvet-meet-skills-labour-mismatch<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Technical and vocational training key to improving employment rates in the Philippines &#8211; Asia &#8211; Oxford Business Group &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/oxfordbusinessgroup.com\/reports\/philippines\/-report\/economy\/on-the-job-development-and-promotion-of-technical-and-vocational-training-key-to-improving-employment-rates-9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/oxfordbusinessgroup.com\/reports\/philippines\/-report\/economy\/on-the-job-development-and-promotion-of-technical-and-vocational-training-key-to-improving-employment-rates-9<\/a><\/li>\n<li>3 Reasons Why GCC Governments Are Focusing On Skills Over Credentials &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.tribalgroup.com\/blog\/3-reasons-why-gcc-governments-are-focusing-on-skills-over-credentials<\/a><\/li>\n<li>World Bank Document &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/documents1.worldbank.org\/curated\/en\/897471516597568527\/pdf\/122881-WP-EducationSectorEngagementNotefinal-PUBLIC.pdf<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Economic diversification in the Gulf: Time to redouble efforts &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/articles\/economic-diversification-in-the-gulf-time-to-redouble-efforts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/articles\/economic-diversification-in-the-gulf-time-to-redouble-efforts\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Gulf Youth and the Labor Market &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/book\/8138\/chapter\/153622440\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/book\/8138\/chapter\/153622440<\/a><\/li>\n<li>PDF &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Youth_Unemployment_MENA_English_Web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.brookings.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Youth_Unemployment_MENA_English_Web.pdf<\/a><\/li>\n<li>The Future of Work in the GCC: Trends and Strategies &#8211; RiseRelay &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/riserelay.com\/the-future-of-work-in-the-gcc-trends-and-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/riserelay.com\/the-future-of-work-in-the-gcc-trends-and-strategies\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li>PwC Middle East Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2023 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/issues\/upskilling\/hopes-and-fears-2023.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/m1\/en\/issues\/upskilling\/hopes-and-fears-2023.html<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies are changing fast. We need to ask: Are we ready for the new skills needed in the region? The answer is tied to how the public and private sectors work together and education prepares the workforce1. Did you know only 35% of public sector workers in the Middle East [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":6690,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[268,263],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6689","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-human-resources","category-research"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6689","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6689"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6689\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6702,"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6689\/revisions\/6702"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6690"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6689"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6689"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/matsh.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6689"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}