Electronic games in education: the future of skills and the economy

Professor Naif Al-Thubaiti, Head of the General Studies Department at the Technical College in Jeddah, confirmed that the educational and social landscape is witnessing a radical transformation in its view of electronic games , as they are no longer confined to the realm of entertainment and wasting time, but have become a fundamental pillar in the modern education system and a promising economic industry on which developed countries rely.

Digital transformation and keeping pace with Vision 2030

Al-Thubaiti's remarks align with the significant progress being made in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030 , particularly following the Crown Prince's launch of the National Strategy for Gaming and Esports. This official initiative reflects a deep understanding of the importance of this sector, not only as a non-oil economic driver but also as a soft power tool for enhancing the technological and intellectual capabilities of future generations. Integrating gaming into education is a strategic step aimed at transforming students from passive recipients of information into active researchers and effective participants in the learning process.

Enhancing cognitive and creative skills

In elaborating on the educational impact, Al-Thubaiti explained that educational games provide interactive simulation environments that traditional education cannot easily offer. These environments contribute directly to:

• Developing critical thinking: Games require students to analyze data and make quick and accurate decisions.
• Problem-solving: Facing progressively difficult challenges enhances the student's ability to devise solutions.
• Self-learning: Stimulating the student's cognitive curiosity to explore information on their own.

It is expected that in the near future schools will see the allocation of gamification-based classes in subjects such as history, science and mathematics, where students can engage in historical battles or conduct complex scientific experiments in a safe and stimulating virtual environment.

Promising economic prospects and career paths

On the economic front, Al-Thubaiti pointed out that the Kingdom possesses tremendous potential that qualifies it to compete with major international companies in this field. Investing in and developing national talent is not limited to producing professional athletes; it also opens wide the door to future careers, which include:

• Game programming and development.
• Graphic design and art direction.
• Digital marketing and online event management.
• Voice-over and interactive scriptwriting.

The educational expert concluded his remarks by emphasizing that electronic games today represent an integrated industry that contributes to attracting foreign investments and stimulating tourism through international tournaments, making it an important pillar in supporting the digital economy and diversifying national income sources, provided that there is proper planning and optimal use of these technologies within educational institutions.