Adoption of the Water Efficiency and Conservation Program Regulations: 18 Training Requirements
In a strategic move aimed at regulating the water sector and enhancing its sustainability, the National Center for Water Efficiency and Conservation a new regulation for accrediting training programs and institutions in the field of water efficiency and conservation (for programs that do not lead to a qualification). This step comes as part of the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to raise the quality of specialized training and unify accreditation standards, ensuring the graduation of qualified national cadres capable of managing water resources with high efficiency.
A strategic context that aligns with Vision 2030
This regulation is of particular importance given the water challenges facing the region, and aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , which prioritizes environmental sustainability and water security. Organizing training in this sector is a cornerstone for building a green and sustainable economy, as developing human resources contributes to the application of the latest global technologies and practices to reduce water waste in urban, agricultural, and industrial sectors.
Approved training paths
Article 4 of the regulations specifies the precise pathways for the training programs that will be adopted, to ensure coverage of all aspects of the water life cycle, and includes:
- Water testing in urban, agricultural and industrial facilities.
- The efficiency of transmission and distribution networks.
- Designing and implementing energy efficiency and consumption rationalization solutions in various facilities.
18 requirements to ensure the quality of training
To ensure the highest quality standards, the regulations set strict requirements for entities wishing to offer these programs. According to Article 5, training providers must submit a formal application that includes:
- The regulatory licenses are valid.
- A detailed description of the program content and targeted learning outcomes.
- A feasibility study proves the actual labor market need for this program.
- Providing qualified trainers with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and documented work experience.
- An electronic system for managing trainee data and results.
Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms
The regulations did not merely set conditions; they also outlined a clear roadmap for oversight. Article 3 affirmed that the center is the sole entity authorized to grant accreditation. Specialized committees review applications, followed by site visits from evaluation teams to verify the facilities' readiness and compliance with standards. The regulations also mandated that training providers submit periodic reports and establish effective channels for addressing trainee complaints within a maximum of 15 working days.
Expected impact locally and regionally
This regulation is expected to bring about a qualitative shift in the Saudi labor market by providing specialized job opportunities in the field of water efficiency. It will also enhance the Kingdom's position as a regional leader in water resource management, ensuring the availability of a workforce trained according to unified standards and implementing global best practices. This will positively impact the national water consumption bill and achieve tangible economic and environmental savings.
