RIYADH: The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) on Thursday launched five frameworks aimed at developing data and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities across general and higher education, training, and professional development.
The frameworks were unveiled during the fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (GFEAI 2026), hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Thursday.
The Data and AI Training Programme Standards Framework, developed in partnership with the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, sets quality standards for training programmes. It aims to ensure their content meets labour market requirements and complies with national laws and regulations.
“سدايا” تطلق خمسة أطر لبناء القدرات في البيانات والذكاء الاصطناعي خلال منتدى اليونسكو العالمي في الرياض.https://t.co/OFEmQJ9LuD#واس pic.twitter.com/Xh1GHjWt1W
— واس العلمي (@SPA_sci) September 17, 2026
The Data and AI Academic Programme Standards Framework, developed in partnership with the Education and Training Evaluation Commission, establishes minimum standards for academic programmes, including learning outcomes, knowledge units and requirements for each qualification level.
AI competency framework
The Data and AI Competency Framework for K-12, developed in partnership with the National Curriculum Centre, defines core learning outcomes to enable students to use data and AI effectively and responsibly. It also provides guidelines for the responsible use of these technologies by students and teachers.
The Data and AI Professional Standards Framework, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development through the Digital Sector Skills Council, defines the professions, roles and competencies required in the field. It seeks to better align workforce capabilities with labour market needs.
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The Data and AI Curriculum for University Students Across Disciplines sets minimum learning outcomes for students to work with data and use AI responsibly and effectively, while enhancing their readiness for the future labour market.
Together, the frameworks aim to build national capabilities across education, training, and professional development by defining program standards, learning outcomes, and required competencies. They also promote the responsible use of data and AI and support the development of qualified professionals who meet labor market needs.
