Citizens and residents will take to the streets in their thousands tomorrow
The Riyadh Municipality has arranged for the streets to be adorned with more than 8,000 national flags
Updated 25 sec ago
Rashid Hassan
RIYADH: It is one of two occasions — the other is National Day — when the Kingdom is adorned with national flags.
Citizens and residents will take to the streets in their thousands tomorrow, Feb. 22, to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s fourth Founding Day.
The Riyadh Municipality has arranged for the streets to be adorned with more than 8,000 national flags, turning the capital green. The flags, representing both the First Saudi State and the modern Kingdom, have been hung strategically on main road masts, squares, bridges, intersections and lampposts, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
The positioning was carefully planned to ensure aesthetic harmony with the city’s landscape and were safely installed by mechanical means. The range of sizes means the flags can also be clearly seen.
Specialized field teams followed a strict timetable to carry out the installations efficiently, prioritizing safety, sustainability and regular maintenance throughout the celebrations.
The efforts reflect the Riyadh Municipality’s commitment to highlighting national identity and improving the urban landscape, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 to enhance the capital’s visual appeal and emphasize the Kingdom’s heritage.
Landmarks including ministry buildings were decorated with green lights on Friday, the eve of Founding Day, while special events across the region will include firework displays and traditional folk acts.
“We invite you to attend the Riyadh Municipality events in 47 municipalities within the governorates and centers of the region in more than 47 locations; to enjoy lively events, quality activities, diverse areas and participations,” Riyadh Municipality wrote on X.
Abdullah Ahmed, a resident of the capital, praised the authority for its efforts to make Founding Day such a special occasion.
He told Arab News: “I am thankful to the Almighty Allah for bestowing safety and security on us as we live in complete solidarity and peace. We are fortunate that we have good leadership in King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and we are fortunate to have Imam Mohammed bin Saud as the founder of the First Saudi State in 1727.”
The modern Kingdom took its first steps on the road to nationhood in 1727, when Imam Mohammed bin Saud succeeded his cousin, Zaid bin Markhan, as ruler of the city state of Diriyah. It is this pivotal moment, recognized as the date when the First Saudi State came into being, that is celebrated as Founding Day each year.
KSGAAL launches report on global status of Arabic language education
Report came during two-day international symposium on status of Arabic language education on Feb. 18 and 19 at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat
Updated 9 sec ago
Hebshi Alshammari
RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) have published a report titled “The Status of Arabic Language Education in the World.”
The launch of the report came during a two-day international symposium on the status of Arabic language education on Feb. 18 and 19 at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Washmi, secretary-general of KSGAAL, said in a press release that the report is part of the academy’s ongoing efforts to promote Arabic language education around the world, and “to drive a transformative shift in Arabic language education as a second language globally.”
It “focuses on shaping policies and strategies that elevate teaching standards while conducting an in-depth assessment of Arabic learning institutions” and “aims to broaden the language’s reach, overcome key challenges, and foster stronger partnerships with regional and international organizations dedicated to Arabic language education,” Al-Washmi added.
The report “represents a significant step toward establishing a comprehensive knowledge base on Arabic language education, serving as a key reference for policymakers and academic institutions in developing curricula and educational programs,” he continued.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, director-general of ICESCO, commended Saudi Arabia’s “pioneering vision in advancing the Arabic language and its mission to preserve and promote its status.”
He said in the press release: “Strengthening the Arabic language within its Islamic context and on the global stage is a shared duty and a historic responsibility—one that calls for unified efforts and sustained collaboration.”
According to the press release, the report is the first to assess “the realities of Arabic language education in non-Arabic-speaking countries. It provides “in-depth analysis” of more than 300 educational institutions across 30 countries, includes an analysis of graduates’ employment prospects, and “identifies key challenges facing Arabic language education and proposes practical solutions to enhance educational policies and strengthen coordination among relevant stakeholders.”
Dr. Mahmoud Al-Mahmoud, head of the Planning and Language Policy Sector at KSGAAL, told Arab News that the report aims to “drive a paradigm shift in the Arabic language education as a second language,” adding that it will provide “educational institutions, researchers, and relevant stakeholders with the opportunity to strengthen areas in need of development.”
Dr. Khaled Al-Qousi, director of the Language Policy Department at KSGAAL, said the report includes research about the employment prospects and hiring rates for graduates of Arabic language programs in various countries, and assesses the “accessibility of employment opportunities for graduates of Arabic language programs within the global job market.”
The findings, the press release stated, “underscore the necessity of fostering strategic partnerships between Arabic language programs and key sectors, including education, diplomacy, commerce, and media, to ensure that graduates can fully leverage these opportunities.”
Japan Embassy in Riyadh celebrates Emperor Naruhito’s 65th birthday
Riyadh Mayor Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf attends celebration
Ties continue to deepen between 2 nations, says envoy Yasunari Morino
Updated 21 February 2025
Arab News Japan
RIYADH: The Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Yasunari Morino hosted a reception on Thursday to celebrate the 65th birthday of Japan’s Emperor Naruhito.
Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, mayor of Riyadh region, attended the reception, which included several representatives of diplomatic missions and dignitaries.
In a speech, Morino highlighted the development of relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia, noting that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.
He said several Japanese officials have visited Saudi Arabia this year including Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yoji Muto, and Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Hisashi Matsumoto.
In February, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan visited Japan and signed a pact with his counterpart to establish a Strategic Partnership Council.
Morino emphasized the expansion of cooperation between the two nations in several sectors including clean energy, mineral resources, technology, health, food, entertainment and sports — in line with the Japan-Saudi Vision 2030 plan.
He also spoke about Japan’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment.
Morino underscored the continued growth of people-to-people exchanges, noting that Japanese culture continues to captivate Saudi Arabia’s citizens, particularly young people.
He also mentioned the upcoming Kansai-Osaka Expo, set to begin in April, and expressed hope the event would attract many visitors from Saudi Arabia and other nations.
He said the expo would showcase the importance of the planet’s ecosystem, human diversity and the collective wisdom of humankind.
Morino reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Japan-Saudi Arabia strategic partnerships to help promote international peace, stability, and human development.
Saudi Shoura Council urges cooperation at Mediterranean assembly
Vice Speaker Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Sulami, emphasizes boosting ties with Kingdom, GCC at opening of 2-day session in Romeopening of the two-day session in Rome
Updated 21 February 2025
Arab News
ROME: A delegation of the Kingdom’s Shoura Council attended the 19th plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean on Thursday as an observer, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Vice Speaker Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Sulami, head of the council’s delegation, spoke at the opening of PAM’s two-day session in Rome, emphasizing the opportunity to strengthen cooperation between the Kingdom and Mediterranean countries in various fields.
Al-Sulami said there was also potential for collaboration between the Mediterranean basin and the six-nation GCC, of which Saudi Arabia is a member.
He highlighted the Kingdom’s initiatives promoting global security, peace, stability, and development including the Arab Peace Initiative, Yemen ceasefire, Sudanese peace talks, India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and Middle East Green Initiative.
Al-Sulami also spoke about Saudi Arabia’s critical role in this week’s US-Russia talks, which was held in Riyadh, and the humanitarian aid provided to countries affected by wars and disasters.
Over 300 delegates from national parliaments, international organizations, academia, and diplomatic missions participated in the event, which was hosted by the speakers of the Italian Senate and Chamber of Deputies.
Morocco’s Enaam Mayara, the president of PAM, convened the session.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sent a video message urging the participants to “keep working for peace, sustainable development and human rights for the people of the Mediterranean region and our world.”
Saudi FM meets with counterparts on sidelines of G20 meeting in Johannesburg
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan is attending a meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg
Updated 21 February 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his counterparts from the UK, China, Australia, and France separately in Johannesburg on Thursday.
On the sidelines of a meeting of G20 foreign ministers held for the first time in Africa, Prince Faisal discussed regional and international developments with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
With Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Prince Faisal discussed intensifying coordination on issues of common interest.
Ways to enhance and develop joint relations were reviewed by Prince Faisal and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong.
Prince Faisal also discussed regional developments and efforts made to achieve stability and peace in the region with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot.
How AI is transforming education — but potentially impacting child development
AI has enabled personalized learning by adapting content to students’ pace and style, offering interactive, gamified experiences
However, experts warn that excessive AI use may impact early childhood cognitive growth and reduce real-world learning
Updated 20 February 2025
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing industries across the globe, and education is no exception. From personalized learning experiences to administrative efficiency, AI is reshaping classrooms and redefining the roles of both teachers and students.
However, as AI’s influence in education expands, experts warn of potential drawbacks — particularly when it comes to young children.
AI-powered tools are becoming increasingly prevalent in education. According to a 2024 report by the UK-based digital safety organization Internet Matters, nearly 44 percent of children are currently using AI, and 54 percent have incorporated it into school assignments.
The report, titled “Artificially Intelligent? Children’s and parents’ views on generative AI in education,” found that teachers, too, are integrating AI into their daily tasks, with 60 percent reporting that they use the technology to enhance their work.
The adoption of AI in education reflects a broader global trend. Experts at Allied Market Research project the market for AI-driven educational tools will grow from $2.5 billion in 2022 to $6 billion by the end of 2025, highlighting the increasing reliance on technology in schools.
Opinion
This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)
In Saudi Arabia, the government has embraced AI’s potential in various sectors, including education. The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence, established in 2019, aims to drive innovation in AI and position the Kingdom at the forefront of data-driven economies.
For educators, AI presents exciting opportunities to enhance learning experiences.
“AI has transformed education by personalizing learning experiences, allowing for tailored content that meets individual student needs,” Faleh bin Saad Al-Huqbani, director of Al-Muqaddimah Schools in Riyadh, told Arab News.
By adapting content to a child’s pace and learning style, AI enables more individualized instruction, helping students grasp difficult concepts with greater ease. Additionally, AI-powered tutoring systems provide real-time feedback and support, reinforcing learning outside the classroom.
Young students attend a lecture on artificial intelligence and robotics during a science exhibition conducted by the King Salman Science Oasis in Riyadh. (SPA file photo)
“AI tools can engage children with interactive and gamified learning environments, making education more enjoyable,” Al-Huqbani added.
Beyond the classroom, AI is also streamlining administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on teaching rather than paperwork. Automated grading systems, data analysis tools, and AI-powered lesson planning are freeing up valuable time for teachers to engage with students more effectively.
While AI’s impact on education is largely positive, some experts caution against its overuse — especially among young children.
Dr. Sultan Ayoub Meo, professor of physiology at the College of Medicine at King Saud University, stresses the importance of cognitive development in early childhood, warning that excessive reliance on AI and electronic devices could have unintended consequences.
Dr. Sultan Ayoub Meo. (Supplied)
“It is not just a natural biological maturation; it is shaped by the infant’s experiences and interactions with their environment,” Dr. Meo told Arab News.
“Children’s cognitive development from birth to 5 years of age is critical due to rapid brain growth and acquiring initial knowledge in thinking, learning, problem-solving, language, and understanding.”
Dr. Meo believes AI has an important role to play in higher education, but he does not recommend its use for children under the age of 6.
While AI has an important role to play in higher education, Dr. Meo does not recommend its use for children under the age of 6. (SPA file photo)
“In this age group, the most important and highly sensitive systems, nervous and endocrine systems, and their physiological processes are rapidly developing,” he said.
He also pointed out potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to AI-enabled devices. “Using AI for children at the age of 6 can cause behavioral and psychological issues,” he said.
“We cannot deny the effects of electromagnetic field radiation generated by AI-allied devices and their hazards on various body organs, including the brain, ears, and eyes, especially in infants and children.”
DID YOU KNOW?
• AI is transforming education, with 60 percent of teachers using it to automate grading, analyze data, and streamline administrative tasks.
• Experts warn that excessive AI use may impact early childhood cognitive development and reduce real-world learning opportunities.
• Experts advocate balancing AI with traditional education to ensure students develop both technological and interpersonal skills.
Despite these concerns, Dr. Meo acknowledges that AI is now an integral part of education and research.
“This is the era of science and technology,” he said. “The future of digital education is extremely important in academia and research. Digital education makes knowledge easily accessible and enables students to access the same knowledge resources.”
In addition to making education more accessible, AI facilitates lifelong learning and skill acquisition, helping students meet the demands of an evolving job market. However, Dr. Meo highlighted the importance of being selective in how and when AI is introduced in the classroom.
KAUST Academy focuses on talent development in AI with programs targeting outside learners. (Supplied/File)
“It will be helpful at higher school and university levels rather than primary schooling,” he said. “Digital education at primary school levels may replace real-world learning and human interaction.”
While AI’s impact on education is undeniable, experts agree that a balanced approach is necessary. AI should complement, rather than replace, traditional teaching methods, ensuring that students continue to benefit from human interaction and hands-on learning experiences.
“We must balance technology with traditional teaching and learning methods,” Dr. Meo added.
