Addressing social challenges in Al-Kharj governorate: A proposal for improving education and employment opportunities

Abstract

Education has been argued to be how communities build socio-economic progress and integrate social inclusion at all levels. This proposal outlines a plan to enhance education and employment opportunities in the region, aiming to bridge gaps in skills and create pathways for sustainable livelihoods. The paper focuses on the education and employment challenges faced by the Al-Kharj community and the country at large. The study adopted a mixed method of collecting qualitative and quantitative data gathered from 973 participants. The data was comprehensively collected and analysed using interviews, surveys, and statistical and thematic analysis methods. The findings indicate that the community encounters both positive and negative trends in education and employment. The data shows that providing quality education is a massive challenge due to inadequate facilities, lack of professional workshops, and mismatch of educational content and labour market requirements. Firstly, interviews with a variety of stakeholders, mainly the natives, school lecturers, administration, and policy analysts, made it clear that these issues require effective strategies in order to be resolved. Regarding employment, the study suggests that education makes a great deal of difference as interviewees relate it to improving social cohesion and poverty alleviation. Based on the surveys and interviews conducted, the paper concluded that the solutions to education problems in Alkharj would need to be multi-faceted. Vocational training and the involvement of local companies will be efficient steps to close the gap between education and employment. The interviews and surveys affirm these conclusions, with the respondents mentioning the need to align education with current market needs and the broader benefits of improved education and employment opportunities.