Vision College in Riyadh has officially announced the launch of its Bachelor of Science in Midwifery program, scheduled to begin in the upcoming academic year. This significant step reflects the college’s ongoing commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s healthcare workforce and meeting the evolving needs of the national labour market. The midwifery profession is considered one of the most vital and in-demand healthcare disciplines globally and locally, given its direct impact on maternal and newborn health outcomes
Midwifery is a healthcare specialisation that focuses on providing comprehensive care to women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. It also includes monitoring the health of newborns during the first few weeks of life. This field blends clinical competence with psychosocial support, offering women a safer and more empowering childbirth experience. Global studies have shown that qualified midwives can meet up to 87% of the essential care needs for mothers and infants. Their presence significantly reduces rates of preterm births and maternal mortality, making them indispensable in any well-functioning healthcare system.
In Saudi Arabia, official statistics indicate a substantial shortage of qualified midwives. Currently, the country has approximately 6,000 practising midwives, with Saudi nationals representing only a limited percentage of this workforce. However, the actual demand exceeds 11,000 midwives to sufficiently meet the needs of hospitals and health centres across the Kingdom. Recognising this gap, the Ministry of Health took the initiative to establish a dedicated midwifery department within its administrative framework, while also encouraging the development of academic programs to train Saudi professionals according to the highest international standards
The launch of this academic program at Vision College in Riyadh is a direct and practical response to these national efforts. It is expected to contribute meaningfully to empowering Saudi women in the healthcare sector. Midwifery is especially aligned with the objectives of female workforce integration and offers diverse career opportunities for graduates, including employment in public and private hospitals, primary healthcare clinics, and maternal and child health centres, in addition to roles in public health education and community outreach.
The significance of this program extends beyond merely addressing an urgent labour market need. It also aligns with the strategic goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritises enhancing the healthcare system, improving quality of life, and increasing women’s participation in the workforce to 30% by 2030. Midwifery, as a discipline, encompasses all of these national aspirations—it empowers women, supports family health, and contributes to building a resilient and comprehensive healthcare system.
Vision College in Riyadh has affirmed its dedication to offering a high-quality academic program that balances theoretical learning with hands-on clinical training. The program will be led by a team of qualified faculty members and carried out in collaboration with approved healthcare facilities to provide students with real-world experience. Official registration and admissions details will be announced soon via the college’s website and media platforms. Vision College takes pride in contributing to the development of a new generation of highly skilled Saudi midwives who will play a crucial role in elevating the standards of maternal and newborn care across the Kingdom.