The Security Middle East Conference talked about better investment into training programs

Dr Mansoor Alghamdi, the Dean of Applied College at the University of Tabuk, explored ‘Investing in Security: The Need for Advanced Training Programs for Guards’ at the Security Middle East Conference.

Security education is struggling to keep up with rapid technological advancements, according to Dr Alghamdi, who is calling for closer collaboration between universities and industry leaders to address the growing skills gap.

Speaking at the Security Middle East Conference, Dr Alghamdi explored how the role of security officers has evolved dramatically.

No longer confined to traditional responsibilities, officers today must now engage with advanced tools such as surveillance systems, behavioural prediction software, and even machine learning.

“The role of the security officer is now heavily technology-related. They must work with surveillance systems, machine learning, and behavioural prediction tools like CCTV,” he said.

But this transformation has left security education lagging behind. Dr Alghamdi highlighted several issues affecting the current landscape, including a lack of comprehensive training, outdated curriculum models, and the absence of a national framework to support professional development in the sector.

“We still face challenges – there’s an imbalance between the supply of qualified personnel and the needs of the security sector,” he said. “Limited training and professional development are major issues. The skills security officers need today are ongoing and dynamic.”

While other sectors, such as engineering or computer science,e benefit from established academic structures, security education remains fragmented.

“Unlike other sectors like engineering or computer science, the security industry lacks a defined educational framework,” Dr Alghamdi added.

In response, his university has partnered with two major companies, SAFE and Hikvision, to co-design diploma programmes tailored to real-world needs. These include a Diploma in Asset Protection and another in Security Technology.

“At our university, we’ve begun working with companies like SAFE and Hikvision to design two diploma programmes: Asset Protection and Security Technology,” he said, adding that the programmes are still in development but are expected to launch next year.

Additionally, the university is collaborating with Hikvision to establish a diploma in Surveillance Systems, with a focus on integrating technological proficiency with human insight.

Dr. Alghamdi concluded his address with a call to action: “Our goal is to invite industry partners to sit down with us – to define the exact skills required and build programmes that meet labour market needs.

“This is an open invitation to the private sector: let’s collaborate and shape the future of security education together.”

Find the full keynote speech here.