More young Saudis building careers in non-traditional jobs

JEDDAH: Young Saudis are moving away from seeking traditional office jobs and looking at building careers in other industries, including as chefs.
This was the trend evident at the 8th Professional Exhibition organized by King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah recently, which aimed to connect job seekers with employers, according to a report in a local publication on Wednesday.
Faten Al-Buraikan, deputy dean of student affairs and head of the exhibition’s committee, said several young citizens applied for jobs with well known companies for culinary positions, including as chefs.
She said more students were looking at employment offers and options more “seriously and realistically,” and thinking of jobs commensurate with their skills and capabilities.
She said the university has provided training for job seekers, including how to view job descriptions, build resumes, and enhance skills required for certain positions.
Al-Buraikan said the university has a three-month program to prepare students for the job market, which includes English language training for business settings, labor regulations, and information on their rights and obligations. She said the university also encouraged students to become entrepreneurs.
There were about 2,000 jobs available at the exhibition, she said, with many offerings in sales, marketing and public relations. Companies provided comprehensive information on positions, including responsibilities and skills required, she said.