Neom’s intention is for the sector to enable access to a world-class education, research, and innovation ecosystem, no matter what stage of life the learner is at.
Neom, the sustainable development being built in northwest Saudi Arabia, has announced plans to establish an education, research, and innovation (ERI) sector to offer personalised and lifelong learning.
The update follows last year’s appointment of Andreas Cangellaris as founding president of Neom U – Neom’s flagship university.
Interconnected pillars
Neom’s ERI is made up of four interconnected pillars: Neom U; the Education, Research, and Innovation Foundation; the Talent Academy; and early childhood to 12th-grade education.
Neom’s intention is that the sector will enable access to a world-class education, research, and innovation ecosystem, no matter what stage of life the learner is at. For example, Neom’s Talent Academy will support ongoing professional development by providing upskilling and career-long learning opportunities designed in collaboration with Neom’s array of sectors.
According to Neom, its academic programmes and research and innovation activities will focus on societal challenges, built on the strategic priorities of Neom, to drive strong engagement with global partners across new and varied industries.
The ERI Foundation’s Applied Research Institute (ARI) programme, initiated via the new Neom Green Hydrogen and e-Fuels ARI and the Neom-Kaust Ocean Science and Solutions ARI, is a key first element of this action.
“Education is the fundamental foundation of every society. It is only right that a community such as Neom, which is envisioning nothing less than a new future for the world, has in place an education system fit to meet the needs of tomorrow,” said Nadhmi Al-Nasr, chief executive officer of Neom.
“The establishment of the new ERI sector at Neom is a crucial step forward in helping us meet our goals, the goals of Vision 2030, and the global challenges of the coming years.”
Neom reckons the curricula deployed across its ERI pillars will inspire a digitally fluent workforce, equipping students with real-life skill sets and critical thinking capabilities. Next-generation technology, inquiry and experiential-based learning, and digital tools such as VR simulation training, will be integrated across all age groups and education provisions.
Leveraging Neom’s “living laboratory” environment, Neom U graduates will develop the skills to design innovative solutions through experiential learning.
“Education is the cornerstone of progress. In support of Neoms vision, we are currently building cutting-edge facilities, academic programmes, and research initiatives to help achieve our goals,” said Andreas Cangellaris, founding president of Neom U.
“Neom’s distinct role allows it to embrace the latest educational theories and technological innovations to shape the future of learning. We look forward to working with leaders across industries on designing this interconnected hub on an intellectual foundation of critical thinking, in turn driving progress on a global scale.”
Students will be able to access the Talent Academy’s online programmes from 2024, while Neom U plans to offer classes online as early as 2025.
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Quelle/Source: Smart Cities World, 29.08.2023
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