RIYADH: Under program dubbed “Study and Work,” 565 students found placement in 11 disciplines to learn skills in the relevant sectors in Taif, sponsored by the Ministry of Labor in coordination with the Ministry of Education.

Other co-sponsors of the program that joined joined with the Labor Ministry include the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) and the Human Resources Development Fund. (HRDF).

The areas of training included vocational courses in automotive engines, technical drawing, carpentry, computer generated painting and drawing, basics of air-conditioners, adaptation of electrical circuits, computer systems and electronics, and female students were given opportunities in aesthetic studies, fashion design and management of beauty parlors.

During the second stage of the program, training in photography and mobile maintenance, which are popular courses among Saudi students, will be started.The labor department in the area is currently making use of school facilities such as auditoriums and laboratories to train the young Saudis.

Those successfully graduating from the courses will receive professional certificates endorsed by the TVTC which will be recognized both by the public and private sectors.

The training curriculum, which include theory and practice, is open only for those learning in high schools.

In a massive effort toward Saudization, the Ministry of Labor has enrolled young Saudis in four vocational and technological programs in the telecommunications sector.

In view of the recent announcement to “Saudize” the telecommunication and mobile industry, the ministry has embarked on a training program in coordination with the telecommunications sector in partnership with the Ministries of Commerce and Industry, Municipal and Rural Affairs and Communications and Information Technology.

The training programs are being carried out through the TVTC in the fields of client service, sales management, basic mobile maintenance and advanced mobile maintenance.

Inspectors from the Ministry of Labor will carry out tours and field visits to mobile companies and shops to ensure full implementation of the Saudization decision. In the drive, the ministry will involve other ministries and institutions.

Recently, Minister of Labor Mufrej Al-Haqabani issued orders for the total Saudization of all sales outlets and maintenance shops of mobile phones and their accessories within a period of six months.

The ministry will work in coordination with the targeted sectors in working out plans for Saudization and training with the objective of phased replacement of foreigners with Saudis in highly skilled and semi-skilled jobs in the private sector.