Student creativity tells the story of Saudi education on its founding day
In a grand national celebration, the Jeddah General Directorate of Education showcased three centuries of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's rich history during its major event commemorating the Kingdom's founding day at the Scout Center. Under the theme "The Sky of Glory," Jeddah students presented a theatrical performance and heritage exhibitions that traced the journey of the Saudi state from its inception. The event, attended by educational leaders, parents, and the community, reflected a strong sense of national pride and deep-rooted connection to the Kingdom's heritage.
Founding Day: A celebration of the Kingdom's historical roots
Saudis celebrate National Day on February 22nd each year, commemorating the founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. This national occasion, officially recognized by royal decree in 2022, marks a turning point in the history of the Arabian Peninsula, establishing a centralized state based on the principles of justice and unity. The Jeddah Education Department's celebrations within this context aim to instill historical awareness in younger generations, connecting them to the legacy of their ancestors and the sacrifices that shaped the nation's identity and future.
The epic “Sama Al Majd”: An artistic journey through time
The theatrical epic “Sama Al-Majd” (The Sky of Glory) was the centerpiece of the celebration, where talented students presented three integrated artistic tableaux narrating the nation's journey through history. The first tableau began with the era of Mani’ bin Rabi’ah and Imam Muhammad bin Saud, the founder of the first Saudi state, passing through stages of development and challenges, culminating in the third tableau which depicted the prosperous reality the Kingdom enjoys today under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and his Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. The celebration venue was transformed into a vibrant cultural panorama, where teachers and students showcased their artistic creations, blending visual art with depictions of the close bond between the people and their wise leadership throughout the ages.
Saudi Education: From Traditional Schools to Vision 2030
In his address, Dr. Othman Musmali, Assistant for Educational Affairs in Jeddah, affirmed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded on enduring values that have made human development and capacity building the cornerstone of its comprehensive development. He explained that education in the Kingdom has achieved remarkable progress, transitioning from simple traditional schools to advanced digital environments and world-class universities. This tremendous development reflects the Kingdom's commitment to investing in human capital, which aligns directly with the objectives of Vision 2030, aimed at building a knowledge-based economy and preparing a generation capable of competing globally.
Living heritage and community engagement
The events weren't limited to theatrical performances; visitors also enjoyed an immersive journey through authentic Saudi heritage. Accompanying exhibits included displays of traditional costumes representing different regions of the Kingdom, popular local dishes, and a tent showcasing poetry and handicrafts, reflecting the richness of national identity and the depth of cultural heritage. Traditional games and field activities also engaged thousands of students and their families, reinforcing a sense of belonging and fostering a national identity aware of its rich history spanning more than three centuries.
