Savvy to Offer Free Games Diplomas at KAU

Savvy Games Group and King Abdulaziz University have signed a memorandum of understanding to offer specialized diplomas in Games Production and Esports Management to KAU students, beginning with the academic year following July 22, 2025.

The diplomas are delivered through Savvy Academy's university program, known as "Level-Up," which provides vocational training in games and esports to university students across Saudi Arabia. The program focuses on games production project management and the professional organization of esports events, aiming to equip Saudi students with skills for careers in these fast-growing industries.

A key feature of the initiative is that it is entirely free for students. No tuition fees are charged, and partner institutions are not permitted to add any additional costs. Program expenses are fully funded by Savvy Games Group and its partners, with required software licenses set at SAR 225 purchased online by the institution. Enrollment in the KAU diplomas is handled through the university's own academic registration systems.

Part of a wider ecosystem

The collaboration sits within a broader Savvy Academy framework. This includes Next-Gen, school-based workshops for ages 10 to 17 offered across the Kingdom; Incubator, a three-month online accelerator for game startups; Kickstarter, a six-month paid internship held in person at Savvy headquarters in King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh, running Sunday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00 with a monthly stipend and health insurance; and Masterclass, free industry sessions.

Separately, Savvy Academy runs a nine-month game design program with Alfaisal University in Riyadh at SAR 15,000 total tuition, non-refundable once the program begins. Those classes typically run 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday over 29 weeks, accepting up to 28 students and offering an industry-academic certificate with priority internship opportunities for top achievers.

For students in Riyadh, Jeddah, and beyond, the initiative opens new pathways into a sector that continues to expand under national development goals.

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