Saudi Gazette report

LONDON — The Third Scholarship Forum has recently taken place in London under the auspices of Saudi Cultural Attaché in the United Kingdom Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Maqooshi. A large number of Saudi students who study in different cities in Britain attended the forum, which focuses on the significant social initiatives undertaken by Saudi students in Britain, which have left a good impression on British communities.

“These initiatives implemented by Saudi young men and women reflect their unwavering commitment to serving community. Youth are the fuel of human development. The Kingdom today pins hopes on its youth who will play a pivotal role in expediting development when they return home,” said Al-Maqooshi.

“The scholarship program which the Saudi government launched few years ago is the right step towards building knowledge-based society. Youth are the Kingdom’s human capital,” he added.

Al-Maqooshi also inaugurated the Saudi Student’s Social Initiatives Exhibition which shed light on the most important social initiatives Saudi students have implemented in various British communities and which brought about benefits to these communities.

The forum sessions focused on the role of individuals in any social initiatives and how they can maximize the social benefit and advantages of any initiative, adding that public and private sectors also have social responsibility and should work together to support volunteers and encourage social initiatives that help communities.

The obstacles facing social work were highlighted, with more emphasis on sustainability and long-term effect of initiatives. For any initiative to succeed, it needs to have a clear mission, vision and objectives. The importance of making a change was stressed by the students who spoke during the forum. They all agreed on the significant role of social media in maximizing the impact and benefits of social initiatives.