The first research conference for students of Makkah universities, sponsored by Al-Faisal, has commenced

Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Governor of Makkah Region, the "First Research Conference for University Students in Makkah Region" was launched. Organized by Jeddah University under the theme "Today's Research... Tomorrow's Future," this prominent scientific event represents a strategic step towards enhancing the research and academic environment in the region. It saw wide participation, with over 1,900 students, researchers, and faculty members from 12 different universities across the region.

Scientific movement in line with Vision 2030

This conference is being held at a time when the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing unprecedented scientific and intellectual activity, in line with the goals of Vision 2030, specifically the Human Capital Development Program, which aims to promote values, develop essential skills and future-oriented skills, and advance knowledge. Student conferences are vital platforms for honing young people's scientific research skills and encouraging innovation and creativity, thus contributing to transforming the national economy into a knowledge-based economy.

This event is particularly significant as it brings together university students from the Makkah region under one umbrella, fostering opportunities for academic exchange and creating a positive, competitive environment that enhances the quality of research output. The conference also reflects the wise leadership's commitment to supporting the education and scientific research sector as a cornerstone of sustainable development.

Diverse and comprehensive scientific paths

The conference featured a rich and intensive scientific and training program, including 40 specialized training courses, 14 interactive workshops, and 6 panel discussions addressing vital issues. The discussions focused on several specific scientific tracks that address current and future development needs, namely:

• Environmental Sustainability Focus: To discuss climate challenges and clean energy solutions.
• Logistics hub: Due to the strategic importance of the Makkah region as a global logistics center.
• The focus of basic and engineering sciences is to promote technological and industrial innovation.
• The Health and Medical Sciences Hub: To keep up with developments in healthcare.
• The Social, Human and Administrative Sciences Axis: To study societal phenomena and develop administrative systems.

Launching events and entrepreneurship

The President of Jeddah University, Dr. Obaid Al-Mudhaffar, inaugurated the conference and its accompanying events, emphasizing in his speech the importance of empowering student researchers and supporting scientific initiatives that effectively contribute to building the future of research and innovation in the region. He noted that the university aims, through this conference, to provide a stimulating environment for scientific creativity.

In the context of linking scientific research to the labor market and entrepreneurship, the conference included a valuable lecture entitled "A Startup's Journey to Overcome the Valleys of Entrepreneurship," presented by Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Fawzan, Chief Advisor at the Environmental Fund. During the lecture, Dr. Al-Fawzan reviewed inspiring and real-world experiences, highlighting the challenges facing startups and how to transform research ideas into successful commercial projects that serve the national economy, thus emphasizing the complementary role between academic institutions and the business sector.