Empowering the Next Generation: HP’s Strategic Investment in Digital Skills for the Middle East
The digital landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, notably in the Middle East where ambitious national visions are driving a rapid transformation. Recognizing this, HP Inc.is strategically investing in a complete suite of educational programs designed too equip young people with the skills needed not just to navigate this future, but to shape it. This isn’t simply about teaching coding or design; it’s about fostering a generation of creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs ready to contribute to thriving digital economies.
For years, the conversation around digital skills has focused on closing the gap between education and industry needs. HP is moving beyond that, actively building the bridge. As Mayank Dhingra, HP Inc.explains, “our goal is to help young people move from learning about technology to creating with it.” This philosophy underpins every initiative,from the popular Game Development Bootcamps in the UAE to the newly launched HP Gaming Garage in Saudi Arabia.
From Bootcamp to Boardroom: A hands-On Approach
The success of programs like the UAE’s Game development Bootcamp demonstrates the power of experiential learning. Students aren’t passively absorbing details; they’re actively building games, collaborating in teams, and pitching their ideas – a direct simulation of the professional habitat. This “learn by doing” methodology is central to HP’s approach.
The HP Gaming Garage in Saudi Arabia extends this model, providing state-of-the-art labs and invaluable mentorship connecting learners directly with the burgeoning gaming and esports industries. Strategic collaborations with organizations like GEMS education and the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) are crucial, extending the reach of these programs and demonstrating the tangible career pathways available through digital proficiency. This isn’t just about creating gamers; it’s about cultivating skills applicable to a wide range of digital roles,from software development and design to marketing and project management.
Addressing the AI Imperative & Building Future-Proof Skills
The rise of Artificial intelligence demands a basic shift in how we approach education.As dhingra emphasizes, “As AI continues to transform industries, learning needs to evolve to match it. Our goal is to ensure learners aren’t just trained in technology, they’re equipped to shape its future.”
This commitment is exemplified by the AI R&D Center of Excellence in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. This isn’t a theoretical exercise; it’s a practical hub offering students and early-career talent hands-on experience with applied AI research and mentorship, directly linked to available job opportunities. Partnerships with leading institutions like RIT University and Saudi Electronic University ensure that industry exposure is seamlessly integrated into higher education curricula. Furthermore, initiatives like the HP Aiden AI Debate and Cybersecurity track aren’t just focused on technical skills, but also on the critical ethical considerations and security protocols essential in the age of AI.
Digital Equity: A Cornerstone of HP’s Strategy
Recognizing that opportunity shouldn’t be limited by circumstance, HP’s education strategy is built on a foundation of inclusivity. “Programmes like the HP gaming Garage are free and open to anyone interested in developing digital skills,” Dhingra clarifies. “Through partnerships with DCO and Tuwaiq Academy, we’re broadening participation across the region, including among women and underserved groups.”
This commitment extends globally through HP’s collaboration with Unitar, reinforcing digital equity for women and youth worldwide. The goal is to create learning environments where everyone has the chance to thrive, irrespective of their background or location.
Bridging the Gap: Industry-Aligned Learning for Real-World Impact
HP understands that a degree alone isn’t enough. Their approach focuses on co-designing programs with employers, ensuring that projects mirror real-world workflows and utilize the tools professionals use daily. This results in graduates possessing a portfolio of “artifacts” – tangible evidence of their skills - that hiring managers actively seek.
The learning process itself is structured around a “stacked, practice-frist” model, starting with accessible online modules and progressing to mentored build sprints and capstone projects directly tied to real-world briefs. This ensures that learning is not only relevant but immediately applicable.
Supporting national Visions for a digital Future
HP’s initiatives are strategically aligned with the ambitious national visions driving digital transformation across the Middle East. In Saudi Arabia, programs directly support Vision 2030 by bolstering digital skills and fostering the growth of creative industries. In the UAE, partnerships with UNDP, the Abdulla Al
