NEOM Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Fahd bin Sultan University to work together over the next three years on education, research and skills development in the Tabuk region. The agreement was signed at the university’s campus in Tabuk, reports ME Construction News.
The partnership is aimed at supporting Saudi Arabia’s move towards a knowledge-based economy by opening up new learning and career opportunities for students and young professionals, particularly in the clean energy and hydrogen sectors.
NGHC said that as the green hydrogen project moves from construction into testing and commissioning, with about 90 per cent of the plant now operational across all sites, building local skills has become a priority to ensure smooth long-term operations and continued progress.
Under the agreement, NGHC and the university will jointly run a range of initiatives, including training programmes, academic research projects, technical development courses and scientific events. One of the key features is a bridging programme that will allow diploma holders to advance to a bachelor’s degree, in line with university rules.
The partnership also allows for the sharing of expertise between the two organisations. Students will gain access to practical training, job-related exposure and learning opportunities through workshops and seminars designed to support their career development.
To ensure the agreement is carried out effectively, regular review meetings will be held and coordinators will be appointed from both sides. The framework is intended to build long-term capabilities and support Saudi Arabia’s ambitions in renewable energy, innovation and sustainable development, even beyond the formal duration of the memorandum.
Through the collaboration, NGHC and Fahd bin Sultan University will offer a wide range of courses focused on practical and industry-ready skills. These will include technical and administrative training, engineering and technician programmes, workplace safety modules, and specialised subjects related to renewable energy and hydrogen technologies.
NGHC said the initiative reflects its focus on investing in people, encouraging innovation and supporting young talent so they can play an active role in shaping the future of clean energy in the Kingdom.
Wesam Alghamdi, chief executive officer of NEOM Green Hydrogen Company, said building local expertise is essential as the company prepares to operate the world’s largest green hydrogen facility and support the wider clean energy sector in Saudi Arabia. He said the partnership with Fahd bin Sultan University will help equip young Saudis with strong technical skills, hands-on experience and an understanding of global developments in hydrogen.
Professor Dr Abdullah bin Ibrahim Hussein of Fahd bin Sultan University said the agreement shows the university’s commitment to offering education that matches the needs of future industries. He said working closely with NGHC will expand opportunities for students and help prepare them to contribute to the Kingdom’s goals in renewable energy, sustainability and technological progress.
The collaboration highlights how closer ties between industry and universities can support national development, strengthen local skills and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification. Students and graduates are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities created by the partnership and play a role in the global transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy.
