Savvy Games Group, a key player in Saudi Arabia’s push to become a global gaming hub, has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American University of Bahrain (AUBH). The partnership aims to provide students with hands-on training and direct industry exposure, bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice in game design.
Bridging Academia and Industry
This collaboration operates under Savvy Academy, the company’s dedicated talent development platform focused on creating sustainable career pathways into the games and esports sector. The core objective is to more effectively connect academic learning with the real-world demands and workflows of the gaming industry, addressing a growing regional need for specialized talent.
“Partnering with academic institutions is critical to building a strong and sustainable talent pipeline for the games and esports sector,” said Amr Sager, Group Chief of Staff at Savvy Games Group. “Through this collaboration with the American University of Bahrain, we aim to give students early exposure to professional environments and practical experience that complements their academic studies.”
Structured Pathways to Gaming Careers
The MoU outlines several areas of cooperation designed to immerse students in the professional gaming world. Key initiatives include internship opportunities for students from AUBH’s College of Media and Design, along with studio visits and structured industry engagement with Savvy’s teams in Riyadh. These activities are designed to offer students direct insight into professional production environments and the day-to-day realities of working in the industry.
Dr. Layal Halawani, Dean of the College of Media and Design at the American University of Bahrain, commented on the initiative’s value. “This partnership creates meaningful opportunities for our students to engage directly with the games industry. It strengthens the learning experience. It also supports our mission to prepare graduates for emerging and future-focused creative careers.”
About Savvy Games Group
Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Savvy Games Group was established with a mission to drive long-term growth and innovation in the global games and esports industry. Savvy deploys capital through acquisitions, investments, and business ventures to expand its portfolio and shape the future of the sector. As Saudi Arabia’s National Champion for Games and Esports, it is also highly focused on developing the domestic ecosystem.
About the American University of Bahrain
The American University of Bahrain (AUBH) is a comprehensive, American-model co-educational university in the Kingdom of Bahrain, supported by the Elm Education Fund by Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company. The university provides a unique approach to education that fosters interaction and collaboration between students, faculty, and the professional community on its modern 75,000 square meter campus in Riffa.
Source: Zawya
