Nationalizing the work force of Saudi Arabia: The role of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry training programs in the private sector

This dissertation examines the role of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CCI) training programs in providing the private sector companies with trained and skilled Saudi workers to help them to nationalize their work force (Saudiization). The study investigates the perception of three groups: current trainees of the CCI's training programs, the training staff of the CCI and private sector managers (Personnel Department managers), regarding the training objectives, training outcomes, general skills, specific skills and overall evaluation of the CCI's training programs. The results of the study show that the perceptions of the three groups are significantly different with respect to the training objectives, training outcomes and the overall evaluation of the CCI's training programs. In most cases, private sector managers have different perception from trainees and training staff. In respect to the general skills (general administrative, behavioral, computer, communication, clerical and safety and security skills), and specific skills (marketing, accounting, finance, personnel management, purchasing management, sales techniques, and inventory management skills), the three groups share common perceptions. All three groups think that these skills are important to be provided by the CCI's training programs to help the private sector to implement Saudiization policy.