The challenges confronting the training needs assessment in Saudi Arabian higher education

Abstract

This research examines the problems encountered by the Training Needs Assessment (TNA) system from the perspective of faculty members and Human Resources (HR) managers in emerging public universities in the Saudi Arabian Higher Education sector. It aims to understand how problems with this will affect the success rate of Training and Development (T&D) curriculums. The research comprises an analytical study using a case study method of analysis. Qualitative data collection was carried out using semi-structured interviews with 75 senior managers and faculty members of four selected universities, selected using purposive non-random sampling. The data was analysed using Thematic Analysis (TA). The results highlight the insufficiency of the TNA techniques applied to ascertain training requirements. The primary obstacles to successful TNA were inadequate HR processes, insufficiently experienced HR directors, poor engagement, and favouritism concerning the selection of candidates for T&D. These issues affect the enthusiasm of those in the department. Additionally, resources required for T&D, particularly time and money, are misused, which could influence the growth potential of the universities against the country’s Vision 2030 plan. The findings indicate procedural differences in selecting and approving staff requests for Human Resource Development (HRD) support, managerial discretion in selecting participants for HRD programmes, and selective or restricted access to HRD programmes for foreign-born employees, which raises significant questions about equality policies. This study is unique as a contribution to the literature in exploring the challenges faced by the TNA process in Saudi Arabian Higher Education, therefore broadening understanding in the field as a whole, especially concerning the developing countries and Gulf Cooperation Council of Nations. The study concludes that there is currently unsatisfactory commitment in determining the staff training needs by the HR departments of Saudi Arabian public universities, which damages morale and leads to a lack of faith between HR directors and departmental staff. Finally, this study contributes to the area of policy decision-making by reporting the present situation surrounding the issues related to the application of TNA in T&D.

Adaptation in Educational Management for International Students in Hosting Countries: An Overview of Gulf Countries

“…However, it is vital to determine whether these higher education institutions can maintain the same level of service quality during extraordinary circumstances (Fuchs et al, 2022). Brooks & Waters (2022) research has mentioned that Gulf countries' international market values are increasing and gaining value with the time of the student's interest in availing education internationally. In this highly competition market, countries are adopting new strategies to gain international students' attention to increase their market share (Brooks & Waters, 2022).…”

“…Brooks & Waters (2022) research has mentioned that Gulf countries' international market values are increasing and gaining value with the time of the student's interest in availing education internationally. In this highly competition market, countries are adopting new strategies to gain international students' attention to increase their market share (Brooks & Waters, 2022). Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have already made a considerable amount of investment to renew their educational infrastructure as per the current demands of international students (Al-Abdullatif & Alsubaie, 2022; Almulla & Al-Rahmi, 2023;Sarkodie Addo et al, 2023).…”

“…Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have already made a considerable amount of investment to renew their educational infrastructure as per the current demands of international students (Al-Abdullatif & Alsubaie, 2022; Almulla & Al-Rahmi, 2023;Sarkodie Addo et al, 2023). Several researchers noted that the most significant challenge the Gulf country's educational management has to deal with is addressing the cultural gaps and encouraging the crosscultural environment in educational institutions hosting international students (David et al, 2017;Bin Othayman et al, 2022;Sahin & Brooks, 2023). Another significant challenge these hosting educational institutions' management faces is the language barrier.…”

Structure Equation Model of Causal Factors Affecting Employees’ Performance in Modern Trade Organization

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“…Portanto, é pertinente inferir que, ao examinar a relação do docente com outros agentes do ambiente educacional, é necessário verificar se os itens avaliados refletem comportamentos relevantes para as relações interpessoais. BinOthayman et al, 2022). Além disso, a interdependência dos estágios de diagnóstico na etapa qualitativa foi essencial para aplicar a metodologia ANA de forma sistemática e ordenada.…”