The Education and Training Evaluation Commission announced the launch of the “Readiness” program tests for the current academic year, targeting more than 68,000 male and female students expected to graduate with bachelor’s degrees. These tests, being held for the fourth consecutive year, will begin next week as a strategic step aimed at measuring the quality of higher education outcomes and ensuring their alignment with the evolving demands of the labor market.
General context and Saudi Vision 2030
The “Readiness” program is a key implementation tool for achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the Human Capital Development Program. Through these initiatives, the Kingdom seeks to build a thriving, knowledge-based, and innovative economy, which requires a highly qualified national workforce. The Education and Training Evaluation Commission, as the independent national body responsible for evaluating and accrediting the quality of education, is the cornerstone of this system, working to ensure that academic programs in Saudi universities meet international standards and fulfill the Kingdom’s developmental needs.
The importance of the program and its expected impact
The importance of the “readiness” tests lies in their provision of accurate and reliable data on the level of knowledge and skills graduates possess in their respective fields. Locally, this data helps universities and higher education institutions review and develop their curricula and academic programs to address any learning gaps. It also provides employers with a reliable indicator of the competence of new graduates, thus facilitating the recruitment process. Internationally, a unified national assessment system enhances the reputation of Saudi university degrees and increases the competitiveness of its graduates in regional and global markets.
Implementation details and scope of specializations
This year's competition includes more than 50 universities and colleges, covering over 700 academic programs across 51 university disciplines. The tests cover a wide range of vital areas, including:
- Engineering disciplines: such as civil, electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering.
- Computer Science and Information Technology: This includes software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and information systems.
- Administrative and financial sciences: such as business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, and human resources.
- Basic sciences: such as chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology.
- Other specializations include: Law, Media, Languages and Translation, Tourism and Archaeology.
The program is implemented in cooperation and integration with the Council of University Affairs and other national bodies, ensuring the achievement of its goals in raising the quality of university education and enhancing the ability of graduates to contribute effectively to the comprehensive national development process.
