Saudi-based King Khalid University (KKU) has joined SAP’s globally acclaimed University Alliance Programme (UAP), as it seeks to ramp up its output of graduates capable of succeeding in the Kingdom’s technology sector.

The initiative is set to provide KKU with the tools and resources needed to teach students how IT technology can empower individuals, enable integrated business processes and inspire strategic thinking - vital skills that will figure prominently in the realisation of Saudi Arabia’s world-class development blueprints.

SAP’s programme has to date signed up 28 institutions across the Mena region, and the company aims double that figure within the next four years.

Supporting existing business, engineering and IT programmes, UAP provides hands-on experience of key SAP technologies, including enterprise resource planning (ERP), and puts theory into practice through demonstrations, case studies and research, a statement from the university said.

“Saudi Arabia’s rapid development has fuelled a demand for a higher education system that is dynamic and where innovation, entrepreneurship and vision are nurtured,” said Dr Abdullah Al-Mohaya, chief information officer of KKU.

“SAP’s programme fits perfectly with our educational philosophy, and will help us raise the standard of graduates that can secure influential leadership positions in business, industry and government, as well as play notable roles in Saudi Arabia’s continually evolving vision and goals.”

Founded in 1998, KKU is one of the largest centres of learning in the Middle East institution with around 70,000 students. Key faculties include computer sciences, sciences, medicine and engineering.

E-Learning deanship at KKU is part of the university’s continuous efforts to provide the latest scientific methodologies to improve the educational process, the statement said.

“The awareness and willingness of KKU’s educators to embrace cutting-edge IT is tremendously exciting. The skills and knowledge imparted by SAP’s UAP are built to last will have a lasting impact on graduates that, ultimately, have the potential to shape the future of a nation," said Ahmed Al-Faifi, the managing director og SAP Saudi Arabia. – TradeArabia News Service