EFL Learning and Vision 2030 in Saudi Arabia: A Critical Perspective

Abstract

Vision 2030 is a key economic transformation plan for Saudi Arabia conceived in 2016. It envisions the shift from oil to a knowledge-based global economy. Along with this historical event, Saudi Arabia undergoes another historic transformation, i.e., the strategic growth of EFL learning in the domain of education in the second decade of the twenty-first century. Since economy and education go hand in hand, scholars wonder whether EFL learning induces Saudi Vision 2030 or vice versa. The relation between them is causal by nature, but the order of effect is inexplicit. If Saudi Vision 2030 motivates EFL learning, then its present situation is inadequate for the fulfillment of the Vision. If not, then how the inadequate EFL competency of Saudi student can contributes to the visionary transformation of Saudi Arabia. Hence, the problem is an essential concern in academic understanding since its resolution redefines both EFL learning and Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia. The study uses qualitative research on the existing scholarly books and articles on EFL learning and Saudi Vision 2030 to understand the causal order of these phenomena, to illustrate the present condition and explain interrelation of EFL Learning and Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia.