Mohammed Khalid

Saudi Arabian social entrepreneur bridging digital divides through affordable tech education

Mohammed Khalid is a transformative figure in Saudi Arabia's education sector, founder of KnowIT Academy that provides low-cost tech training to underserved communities. Starting with a single classroom in Riyadh in 2015, his initiative has expanded to 12 cities, training over 15,000 students in coding, digital marketing, and AI fundamentals through a pay-what-you-can model.

Khalid's innovative approach targets marginalized groups including women, youth from rural areas, and refugees. His 'Tech for All' program offers scholarships funded by corporate sponsors like Saudi Aramco, ensuring 60% of students come from low-income backgrounds. Graduates have secured tech jobs at major firms like SABIC and Riyadh Zakat.

His work aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals, having created over 300 tech startups through incubation programs. The academy's partnership with Saudi Ministry of Health produced a telemedicine app used during the pandemic, demonstrating real-world impact. Khalid's methodology has been adopted in Jordan and Egypt through the MENA Tech Initiative.

Recipient of the 2022 UNDP Social Innovation Award, his TED Talk 'Code Your Future' has inspired similar programs across the Arab world. With 85% employment rate among graduates, Khalid's model proves how accessible education can drive both economic empowerment and social cohesion in rapidly modernizing societies.