NEOM Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC) and Fahd bin Sultan University (FBSU) have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding that establishes a comprehensive three-year framework for cooperation in education, research and talent development within the region of Tabuk.
The agreement was formalized at FBSU in Tabuk by Professor Dr. Abdullah bin Ibrahim Hussein and Wesam Alghamdi, CEO of NGHC. This partnership helps Saudi Arabia’s shift to a knowledge-based economy by providing new opportunities for students and early professionals to develop skills for the growing clean energy and hydrogen sectors.
As NGHC moves from construction to testing and commissioning, with 90 percent of the world’s largest green hydrogen plant now complete, investing in national capabilities is crucial for long-term operational success and sustaining the momentum of this pioneering project.
Under the memorandum, NGHC and FBSU will collaborate on training programs, academic research, scientific events, and technical development. A key component is a bridging program enabling diploma graduates to progress to a bachelor’s degree. The partnership also fosters expertise exchange and offers students opportunities for practical training, career pathways, and participation in workshops and seminars to support professional growth.
Both parties will meet regularly to oversee the implementation, appoint coordinators to manage activities, and ensure continued collaboration even after the memorandum concludes. This agreement establishes a long-term framework to strengthen capabilities that will support Saudi Arabia’s leadership in renewable energy, innovation, and sustainable development.
Through this partnership, NGHC and FBSU will offer a variety of courses aimed at equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills, including technical and administrative training, engineering programs, occupational health and safety modules, and specialized content in renewable energy and hydrogen technologies.
These initiatives highlight NGHC’s commitment to investing in people, fostering innovation, and empowering young talent to shape the future of clean energy in the Kingdom.
Wesam Alghamdi CEO – NGHC
“Developing national talent is fundamental to the long-term success of NGHC as we prepare to operate the world’s largest green hydrogen plant and support the growth of the broader clean energy economy in Saudi Arabia. Our collaboration with FBSU represents an important step in building the skills and knowledge required for this new industry. This partnership will empower young Saudis with a strong technical foundation, practical experience and exposure to the innovations shaping the global hydrogen sector.”
Professor Dr Abdullah bin Ibrahim Hussein, representing FBSU, said that, “This memorandum reflects our commitment to advancing education that responds directly to the needs of future industries. Working alongside NGHC allows us to expand opportunities for our students and ensure they are prepared to contribute to the Kingdom’s ambitions in renewable energy, sustainability and technological leadership. Together, we are helping to build the next generation of innovators who will drive the energy transition.”
The NGHC and FBSU collaboration exemplifies how industry and academia can drive national development, enhance local capabilities, and support Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification. Students and graduates are encouraged to seize the opportunities from this partnership and contribute to the global shift toward sustainable energy solutions.
