The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has initiated the first phase of the Skill Verification Program (SVP) in Egypt, in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Manpower.

The SVP employs a skills examination method in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia, focusing on enhancing the quality of professional services within the Saudi labor market and increasing the efficiency of professional work.

In the inaugural phase of the external track in Egypt, the SVP is assessing skills in five key professions: Plumber, Electrician, Welder, Auto Mechanic, and Carpenter. The Ministry plans to expand the program to include additional professional areas in subsequent phases.

Aligned with the Ministry's global outreach, the SVP was initially launched in September 2022 in Pakistan, followed by India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. This international expansion aims to ensure skilled workers meet the required standards before entering the Saudi job market.

Under the Skill Verification Program, prospective workers demonstrate their job-specific skills before entering the Saudi job market. Obtaining the SVP from an approved testing center in their home country is now a prerequisite for professional workers seeking certain jobs in Saudi Arabia. The process involves passing two tests: a Theoretical and a Practical examination.

The Skill Verification Program aspires to play a pivotal role in developing a professional workforce aligned with international standards, meeting the evolving needs of the Saudi job market. The program seeks to elevate service quality and enhance overall productivity in the Kingdom's labor market.

The SVP, alongside other associated development programs, falls under the umbrella of "professional accreditation," showcasing Saudi Arabia's commitment to fortifying the job market's strength and appeal. The country aims to achieve this by demonstrating flexibility, quick adaptation to changes, and attracting individuals with the most sought-after skills.