Digitalization is increasing in the Middle East. While governments across the Middle East are working on initiatives to provide digital skills to youth for future careers in AI and other technologies, tech behemoths are also building technology hubs and academies in the region to provide tailored training programs to prepare the future workforce with the skills necessary to fill technology sector vacancies.

Recently, Cisco announced that it would train 10 million individuals in digital and cybersecurity skills in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) over the next ten years through its Networking Academy program. 

“Without access to a strong talent pool, it will be harder to continue the digital transformation at pace,” said Wendy Mars, President of Cisco EMEA.

Guy Diedrich, SVP and Chief Innovation Officer, Cisco, states that a global workforce with digital skills is essential for developing sustainable and secure businesses and more equitable societies. “We need a global workforce with digital skills to develop sustainable and secure businesses and more equitable societies. Building a local pool of next-generation talent is critical to long-term social inclusion and economic resilience.”