KUWAIT, Oct 22 (KUNA) -- Secretary General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Haitham Al-Ghais affirmed Wednesday that empowering youth and investing in their potential is essential for shaping the future of the oil industry.
Speaking at the 8th Youth Energy Forum and the World Petroleum Council's (WPC) annual energy meeting in Kuwait, Al-Ghais stressed the importance of preparing young leaders to drive the industry forward toward greater sustainability and prosperity.
He told participants that the youth are the foundation of the industry's future, highlighting the need for global investment in youth capacity-building.
Reflecting Kuwait's early oil history, Al-Ghais said young Kuwaitis led the sector's development -- from the first oil concession in 1934, through the discovery of Burgan Field in 1938 and the export of the first crude shipment in 1946.
Al-Ghais, who assumed OPEC's chief role in 2022, said his own experience underscored the importance of developing young talent through education and hands-on leadership.
He cited OPEC's World Oil Outlook 2025, projecting global energy demand to rise by 23 percent by 2050, with oil demand reaching around 123 million barrels per day and maintaining a 30 percent share of the energy mix.
This growth requires both significant investments-estimated at USD 18.2 trillion for oil alone by 2050-and a committed young workforce, he noted.
Al-Ghais highlighted OPEC members' efforts, particularly Kuwait's, in adopting sustainability technologies such as carbon capture, direct air capture, and expanding renewable energy projects like Al-Shagaya Renewable Energy Station.
He stressed the need for a balanced global energy approach that integrates all sources, including oil, gas, and renewables, to meet future demands and correct misconceptions about the oil sector's role.
Held under the theme "Empowering the Future: Connecting Young Professionals, Ideas & Knowledge", the WPC Forum gathers youth, experts, and energy leaders from over 60 countries and continues.
The forum continues Thursday with workshops and panel discussions on innovation and strategic leadership in energy. (end) aam.seo