Toronto, October 3, 2024 — Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, conducted an official visit to the University of Toronto as part of his broader mission to Canada, where he explored the university's academic programs that contribute to the industrial and mining sectors. During his visit, the minister met with the director of the Lassonde Institute of Mining, alongside leaders from the industrial and mining sectors, to discuss the development of human capabilities in mining and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies in mining operations.
Minister Alkhorayef emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to bolstering the competitiveness of its workforce in the mining industry, particularly through the adoption of advanced technologies and smart mining solutions. He outlined the national strategy for developing human capabilities in both the industrial and mining sectors, focusing on empowering talents and leadership, enhancing the skills of national workers, and driving productivity and innovation across these fields. The strategy aims to prepare Saudi professionals to engage with emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technological solutions, in a way that adds value to the workforce and reduces reliance on unskilled labor.
The Lassonde Institute of Mining, established in 1996, is renowned for its contributions to mining innovation and features a multidisciplinary team of researchers specializing in fields such as mining exploration, engineering, robotics, machine learning, big data, energy, economics, and water. The institute’s pioneering work in these areas aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision to modernize its mining sector by integrating advanced technologies and building a highly skilled workforce capable of driving future growth.
Alkhorayef’s visit to the University of Toronto and the Lassonde Institute of Mining was part of a larger effort to strengthen industrial and mining cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Canada. The discussions focused on potential joint investment opportunities in promising industrial sectors and the sharing of expertise that could benefit both nations.
