The second annual Human Capability Initiative concluded with over $2.2 billion in announced investments and 100 cross-sector agreements aimed at preparing the workforce for technological shifts.
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — More than 13,000 participants from 120 countries gathered in Riyadh for the second Human Capability Initiative (HCI) conference, where global leaders addressed the challenge of developing human skills in an era of rapid technological advancement.
The two-day event, held under the theme “#BeyondReadiness,” resulted in more than 100 agreements across various economic sectors totaling SAR8.5 billion ($2.2 billion) in investments. Among the notable announcements was London Business School’s plan to establish a new office in Riyadh.
“Saudi Arabia today is moving from ambition to action. Vision 2030 is no longer a roadmap, it’s no longer a blueprint. It’s transformation in motion,” said Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Kassabi, Minister of Commerce.
International collaboration on future skills
The conference, held under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, brought together over 300 influential leaders from 40 countries, including representatives from the World Bank, International Labor Organization, Microsoft, Google for Education, and leading academic institutions.
A ministerial roundtable focused on “AI Skills for All,” examining strategies to ensure equitable access to artificial intelligence technology across populations. The conference also marked the launch of the “Future Skills Initiative” by the Saudi-UK Strategic Partnership Council, aiming to develop expertise across 13 high-potential sectors.
“Throughout history, progress has been driven by those willing to adapt, to innovate, and to embrace change. Today we find ourselves at a time when human capital is not a subset of economy and fiscal policy, it is the defining variable of global prosperity,” said H.E. Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman AlRajhi, Saudi Minister of Human Resources & Social Development.
Focus on workforce readiness
The conference agenda emphasized innovative learning models designed to prepare individuals for an evolving labor market shaped by technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence.
“Throughout this conference, we engaged in powerful dialogues and shared innovative insights that underscore the extraordinary potential within every individual,” said H.E. Yousef Al-Benyan, Minister of Education, in his closing address.
The Human Capability Initiative is organized by the Human Capability Development Program, part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, in partnership with the Ministry of Education. The conference aims to unite government entities, private sector organizations, and nonprofits to drive innovation in human capability development.
