As part of its efforts to strengthen national capacities in standardization, SASO launched in 2017 the Saudi Professional Programme (SPP). SPP is a national training and awareness-raising program that raises students' awareness and trains Saudi young professionals and qualifies them to work in the field of standardization. This is achieved by providing them with the skills to prepare and manage standards' projects; mechanisms of adopting international and regional standards; methods of forming technical committees and their work mechanisms; an introduction of the concept of standardization at the national, regional and international level; and a clarification of the role of standards in economic and social development.

      SASO clarified that it has established this program to help young professionals to know the concept of conformity, measurement, calibration, accreditation and quality marks for products, in addition to the role of laboratories in the application of standards and product testing. This aims to motivate them to work and participate in the work of technical committees for the preparation of Saudi standard specifications and various standardization areas.

      SASO explained that it has given an opportunity for many bodies and sectors to benefit from this program; the most notable of which are the educational institutions and young professionals in government, military, and private sectors. 

      SASO stressed that the aim of this program is raising the level of awareness among Saudi students and professionals to find tools and services that help in meeting future market needs of young professionals in the fields of standardization; increasing cooperation and communication in the field of education and industry; and enhancing cooperation with national, regional, and international relevant stakeholders. Moreover, the program has the goal of introducing SASO and activating its role to reach all members of society; whether being consumers, manufacturers or professionals. Also, it aims at increasing awareness of the work of technical committees to maximize participation in local, regional and international standardization in addition to giving the youth an opportunity to participate in the work of committees to represent their bodies and the Kingdom, which contributes to shaping the future of standardization in the Kingdom. Furthermore, the program aims at qualifying young professionals who are still in the educational stages for the labor market, facilitating the dissemination of the culture of dealing with standardization in all aspects, and increasing the number of beneficiaries of Saudi standards. It addition, the program urges technical universities and colleges to adopt standardization programs and curricula. Also, it introduces young professionals to the concept of standardization at the national, regional and international levels as well as the role of standardization in economic and social development. 

      ​SASO noted that those wishing to benefit from this program can contact SASO via e-mail at: spp@saso.gov.sa