Nursing Deans’ Perspectives on Leading Educational Transformation towards Saudi Vision 2030: Exploratory‐Descriptive Qualitative Study

Abstract

Aim. To explore the perceptions of the nursing deans towards the alignment of nursing education following the Saudi Vision 2030. Background. The Saudi Vision 2030 has been considered a bold move, attainable and realistic, to elevate its status worldwide as a thriving nation, exceptionally with its economy, education, health, recreation, and tourism. Educational transformation must be implemented to revolutionize the pathway of nursing education towards national and international recognition as a thriving and sustainable producer of high‐caliber nursing graduates. Methods. Exploratory‐descriptive qualitative study. A total of 18 nursing deans were selected purposively who met the set inclusion criteria. Semistructured interviews were conducted from April to December 2023. Colaizzi’s method was applied in analyzing the data. The COREQ checklist was employed in reporting the qualitative results. Results. Four main themes transpired from the narratives of the participants: (1) leadership and management capacities; (2) educational transformation; (3) support system; and (4) the future of nursing education in KSA. Conclusion. New developments in the nursing profession indicate that the College of Nursing deans in Saudi Arabia need to get involved in making creative and sustainable strategies and practical policies that can help improve nursing education across the country in partnership with various stakeholders to ensure that the nursing profession is brought into line with the kingdom’s Vision 2030.