IBM Consulting has launched the Himmah program, an initiative aimed at upskilling the next generation of Saudi technology leaders. Announced at the Think Leadership Exchange in Riyadh, the program is part of IBM’s commitment to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by fostering local talent. Himmah, meaning ‘determination,’ will provide Saudi nationals with hands-on experience and theoretical training in various fields within IBM Consulting, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in the technology industry.
Empowering Future Leaders
The Himmah program is designed to empower aspiring leaders by combining traditional consulting expertise with the latest technological skills. Participants will undergo a 12-month training program, gaining hands-on experience across different fields such as hybrid cloud, AI, and data science. The program aims to create a new breed of professionals who are well-equipped to make a lasting impact in the consulting industry.
Khaled Al-Ofaysan, Managing Partner and Country Manager at IBM Consulting Saudi Arabia, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Saudi candidates to the Himmah program, which embodies our commitment to fostering local talent and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030”. The program will involve tens of Saudi nationals, who will be hired into specific career paths, including consultants, technical specialists, designers, data scientists, and developers.
In addition to technical training, participants will receive guidance on developing their soft skills and access to IBM Consulting Advantage, an AI-powered delivery platform. This comprehensive approach ensures that associates are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges and contribute to the country’s development agenda.
Aligning with Vision 2030
The Himmah program aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues. By investing in local talent development, IBM is contributing to the Kingdom’s efforts to build a knowledge-based economy. The program’s focus on advanced technologies such as hybrid cloud and AI reflects the strategic priorities of Vision 2030, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in the global technology landscape.
Participants in the Himmah program will benefit from a blend of theoretical and practical training, ensuring they stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving technology sector. The initial five-week intensive training period will cover essential skills and knowledge, followed by placement in projects related to their specific career paths. This hands-on experience will enable participants to apply their learning in real-world scenarios, further enhancing their expertise.
IBM’s longstanding commitment to education and talent development is evident in its free global training program, IBM SkillsBuild. The Himmah program builds on this foundation, offering Saudi nationals a unique opportunity to accelerate their careers and contribute to the country’s technological advancement.
Future Prospects and Impact
The launch of the Himmah program marks a significant milestone in IBM’s efforts to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. By equipping local talent with the skills needed to excel in the technology industry, IBM is helping to create a sustainable pipeline of future leaders. The program’s emphasis on both technical and soft skills ensures that participants are well-rounded professionals capable of driving innovation and growth.
Looking ahead, IBM plans to continue working closely with relevant entities to identify opportunities for further investment in talent development. This collaborative approach will help define the skills needed to support the country’s development agenda and ensure that Saudi Arabia remains competitive in the global technology market.
In conclusion, the Himmah program represents a strategic investment in Saudi Arabia’s future, fostering local talent and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. By providing comprehensive training and hands-on experience, IBM is empowering the next generation of technology leaders to make a lasting impact on the industry and the country.
