Baha – In a strategic move aimed at empowering national talent and meeting the evolving demands of the labor market, the Be First Open Education Platform, affiliated with the Institute of Research, Studies and Consulting at the University of Baha, has announced the launch of a comprehensive suite of accredited professional certifications. These programs have been specifically designed to equip professionals and ambitious individuals with the skills necessary to succeed amid the economic transformations taking place across the Kingdom.

This announcement comes within the framework of an active partnership with Kun Training Company, a leader in professional development, with the goal of providing flexible, high-quality educational and training pathways that directly contribute to skill-building and human capacity development — in alignment with the targets of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Program.

Meeting the Demands of the Modern Saudi Labor Market

The Saudi labor market is undergoing a radical transformation. Traditional academic degrees alone are no longer sufficient to guarantee professional distinction. According to recent reports, demand is increasingly shifting toward practical skills and professional certifications that demonstrate an individual's competence in vital fields such as project management, data analysis, cybersecurity, and digital marketing.

Against this backdrop, the launch of this certification bundle serves as a bridge — guiding trainees from theoretical knowledge to professional practical application, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and increasing their chances of securing leadership positions.

The Be First platform stands out by offering a fully integrated digital learning environment that provides trainees with flexible access to content, alongside continuous assessment to ensure maximum benefit. The experience culminates in obtaining certifications accredited by prestigious international bodies and the University of Baha.

A Detailed Look at the Professional Certifications Offered

The platform has designed its training portfolio to cover the most in-demand specializations — both now and in the future — within the Saudi market:

1. Project Management Professional (PMP®) Globally recognized as the gold standard in project management, awarded by the American Project Management Institute (PMI). Given the Kingdom's mega-projects such as NEOM and Qiddiya, the PMP has become an essential requirement for engineers and project managers. Studies indicate that PMP holders earn salaries up to 20% higher than their peers, making it an invaluable professional investment.

2. Certified Business Professional in Leadership Skills (CBP™) Focuses on developing the leadership skills required to manage teams and achieve the strategic goals of organizations. Essential for any manager or team leader seeking to strengthen their administrative impact and foster a productive work environment.

3. Governance, Risk, and Compliance Professional (GRCP™) With growing emphasis on transparency and accountability in both public and private sectors, this certification qualifies professionals to establish robust governance frameworks, identify potential risks, and ensure organizational compliance — fully aligned with Vision 2030's goals of building sustainable institutions.

4. Associate Professional in Human Resources – International (aPHRi™) An ideal starting point for beginners in human resources, covering recruitment, employee relations, and compensation. Training and examination fees can be reimbursed through the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) upon passing the exam.

5. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) An internationally recognized credential from Microsoft validating proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint — enhancing productivity and improving prospects for administrative and office-based roles.

6. Data Analyst Using Power BI Equips trainees with the skills to transform complex data into interactive reports and dashboards using Power BI — a highly sought-after competency in Data Analyst and Business Intelligence roles.

7. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Essential for professionals in construction, industry, oil, and gas sectors. Aims to reduce workplace accidents and ensure a safe, healthy environment — a mandatory requirement in many major projects.

8. Certified Business Professional in Marketing (M-CBP), Customer Service (CBP), and Sales (CBP-S) This trio forms the commercial success triangle for any business — equipping trainees with modern digital marketing strategies, exceptional customer service skills, and effective sales techniques that drive revenue and business growth.

9. International Computer and Internet Certificate (IC3) & Computer Technology Specialist (CBP) Provide foundational and advanced IT skills — from basic computer and internet usage to a deeper understanding of the technology infrastructure powering today's businesses.

On this occasion, the Be First team affirmed that this diverse certification portfolio has been carefully designed to serve as a powerful catalyst for trainees' professional journeys, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to achieve excellence and contribute meaningfully to the flourishing national economy.

The launch of this distinguished bundle is not merely a qualitative addition to available training programs — it is a genuine investment in human capital, and a reaffirmation of the Institute of Research, Studies and Consulting's commitment to preparing a generation of leaders and professionals capable of driving progress across the Kingdom.

We invite all ambitious individuals — whether recent graduates seeking to launch their careers with confidence, or working professionals aspiring to advance and grow — to seize this invaluable opportunity and join the Be First platform. Let it be your gateway to a promising professional future. In a rapidly changing world, investing in yourself remains the most profitable bet of all.