Tuwaiq Academy, Meta Launch First Diploma in Game Development

Tuwaiq Academy, in partnership with Meta, announced the launch of the Kingdom’s first diploma program in game development and virtual worlds, set to begin on September 15 at its Riyadh headquarters. The program, accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, aims to equip Saudi nationals with advanced skills in game development, virtual world building, and augmented and virtual reality technologies, aligning with the demands of the modern job market.

Context and Background

Tuwaiq Academy, a leading technical education institution in Saudi Arabia, has consistently partnered with global tech giants such as Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, and Alibaba to provide specialized technical camps and programs. This new diploma marks a significant expansion of its offerings, being the first technical diploma at the academy. The initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to diversify its economy and empower its youth through education and technology, in line with Vision 2030 goals to develop a knowledge-based economy.

Key Details

The diploma program spans two semesters with over 800 training hours and covers essential topics including 3D modeling, virtual world development, augmented and mixed reality applications, C# programming, Unity engine, and Web 3 technologies. It offers global professional certifications, ensuring trainees are equipped with skills that meet international standards. Abdulaziz Al-Hammadi, CEO of Tuwaiq Academy, emphasized that the launch is part of efforts to introduce diverse educational tracks and activate partnerships with major global entities. Joelle Awwad, Meta’s head of policy programs for the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye, noted that the partnership represents a significant achievement in adopting advanced education programs and ensuring Saudi talent is ready for the future labor market.

Implications and Impact

This initiative is expected to bolster Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional hub for technology and innovation, providing young Saudis with cutting-edge skills that are in high demand globally. By focusing on game development and virtual worlds, the program taps into a rapidly growing industry, potentially creating new economic opportunities and job prospects. It also strengthens the Kingdom’s digital ecosystem and enhances its competitiveness in the global tech landscape, supporting the goals of Vision 2030 to diversify revenue streams and foster a skilled workforce.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The diploma program directly supports Saudi Vision 2030 by investing in human capital development and promoting technological innovation. It aligns with the vision’s objectives to build a thriving economy and a vibrant society, where education and training are tailored to market needs. By partnering with Meta, Tuwaiq Academy is not only advancing technical education but also contributing to the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global leader in programming, augmented reality, and 3D design, ultimately driving sustainable economic growth and global engagement.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the name of the new diploma program launched by Tuwaiq Academy?

A1. The program is called the diploma in game development and virtual worlds, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia.

Q2. Which global company is partnering with Tuwaiq Academy for this diploma?

A2. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is partnering with Tuwaiq Academy to launch this program.

Q3. When will the diploma program officially launch?

A3. The program will launch on Sunday, September 15, at Tuwaiq Academy’s main headquarters in Riyadh.

Q4. What is the duration of the diploma program?

A4. The program spans two semesters with over 800 training hours, providing intensive practical learning.

Q5. What are some key skills taught in the program?

A5. Skills include 3D modeling, virtual world development, augmented and mixed reality, C# programming, Unity engine, and Web 3 technologies.

Q6. Is the diploma accredited?

A6. Yes, it is accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, ensuring quality and recognition.

Q7. Who is the CEO of Tuwaiq Academy?

A7. Abdulaziz Al-Hammadi is the chief executive officer of Tuwaiq Academy.

Q8. What did Al-Hammadi say about the launch?

A8. He emphasized it is part of efforts to introduce diverse educational tracks and activate partnerships with major global entities.

Q9. Who is Meta’s head of policy programs for MENA and Türkiye?

A9. Joelle Awwad holds this position and commented on the partnership’s significance.

Q10. What did Joelle Awwad say about the partnership?

A10. She stated it drives efforts to adopt advanced education programs and ensures Saudi talent readiness for the future labor market.

Q11. What other global entities does Tuwaiq Academy partner with?

A11. Tuwaiq Academy partners with Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Alibaba, and others for various technical programs.

Q12. What is the learning methodology of the program?

A12. The program uses a practical approach based on job market needs, involving building and developing application projects.

Q13. How many training hours are included?

A13. The program includes over 800 training hours across two semesters, providing extensive hands-on experience.

Q14. What certifications do trainees receive?

A14. Trainees receive global professional certifications upon completion, enhancing their credentials.

Q15. What technologies are covered in the curriculum?

A15. The curriculum covers augmented reality, virtual reality, mixed reality, 3D modeling, C#, Unity, and Web 3.

Q16. Where is Tuwaiq Academy located?

A16. The academy’s main headquarters is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the program will be held.

Q17. How does this program support Saudi Vision 2030?

A17. It supports Vision 2030 by developing national talent in advanced technologies, fostering economic diversification and innovation.

Q18. What is the significance of this diploma for Saudi Arabia?

A18. It is the first technical diploma at the academy and the first of its kind in the Kingdom, positioning Saudi Arabia as a tech hub.

Q19. Who supervises the training in the program?

A19. A specialized teaching staff supervises the practical learning and project development.

Q20. What are the career prospects for graduates?

A20. Graduates can pursue careers in game development, virtual reality, augmented reality, and 3D design, meeting global market demands.

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