By: Oil & gas Middle east

NEOM Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fahd bin Sultan University, establishing a three-year framework for cooperation in education, research and talent development in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk region.

The agreement was formalised at Fahd bin Sultan University’s campus in Tabuk and signed by Professor Dr Abdullah bin Ibrahim Hussein and Wesam Alghamdi, Chief Executive Officer of NEOM Green Hydrogen Company.

The partnership is designed to support Saudi Arabia’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy by developing the skills required for the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding clean energy and hydrogen sectors. It comes as NGHC advances from construction into testing and commissioning, with 90% of the world’s largest green hydrogen plant now complete across all project sites.

As the project moves closer to full operations, NGHC said investment in national capabilities has become critical to ensuring long-term operational excellence and sustaining momentum behind the landmark development.

Under the terms of the MoU, NGHC and Fahd bin Sultan University will collaborate on training programmes, academic research initiatives, scientific events and specialised technical development. A central feature of the agreement is the introduction of a bridging programme that will enable diploma graduates to progress towards a bachelor’s degree, in line with university regulations.

The partnership also provides for the exchange of expertise between both organisations and creates opportunities for students to access practical training, employment pathways, workshops and seminars aimed at supporting professional growth.

Both parties will hold regular meetings to oversee implementation, appoint dedicated coordinators to manage activities and ensure continuity of cooperation beyond the initial term of the memorandum. The agreement is intended to serve as a long-term framework to strengthen local capabilities and support Saudi Arabia’s leadership in renewable energy, innovation and sustainable development.

Through the collaboration, NGHC and Fahd bin Sultan University will deliver a range of courses focused on industry-relevant skills, including technical and administrative training, engineering and technician programmes, occupational health and safety modules, and specialised content in renewable energy and hydrogen technologies.

Wesam Alghamdi, CEO of NEOM Green Hydrogen Company, said developing national talent was fundamental to the company’s long-term success as it prepares to operate the world’s largest green hydrogen plant.

“Our collaboration with Fahd bin Sultan University represents an important step in building the skills and knowledge required for this new industry,” Alghamdi said. “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 said the agreement reflects the university’s commitment to aligning education with 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,” he said. “Together, we are helping to build the next generation of innovators who will drive the energy transition.”

The collaboration is positioned as a model for industry–academia cooperation in Saudi Arabia, supporting economic diversification while enabling students and graduates to play an active role in the global shift towards clean and sustainable energy solutions.