Transforming KSA's local workforce into global talent: An Industry 4.0 and 5.0 initiative leading to vision 2030

Abstract

This study examines the opinions of 18 experts from various sectors, including managers, executives, and academics across Saudi Arabia. The researchers first organized the interview data into themes and sub-themes and then applied text analysis and text mining to derive findings and conclusions. Using an inductive approach, they explored qualitative data categorized into themes using NVivo 14 software. The research identifies challenges, benefits, and risks associated with workforce development for entrepreneurs and industry practitioners in Saudi Arabia. It emphasizes the advantages of machine-to-machine (M2M) and human-machine interaction (HMI) for enhancing productivity according to industry standards. Additionally, the study discusses technology innovation, government policy development, business model creation, and job generation through smart technology cooperation. It outlines necessary training and skills for managing local talent within the technology framework of the industry. The study also highlights efforts by entrepreneurs and industry professionals to elevate the local Saudi workforce to a global standard and the associated risks of job polarization and income disparity. The findings offer solutions for sectors like manufacturing, energy, environment, healthcare, education, and smart city initiatives, aiming for security, cost reduction, and enhanced production with real-time outcomes aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The implications of the study provide recommendations for corporate managers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and the government to transform the local workforce into global talent in step with technological progress and industry standards for machine and human collaboration in Saudi Arabia and beyond.