Saudi Scouts celebrate their founding day | 3 centuries of glory
Celebrating its deep roots: Saudi Scouts commemorate their founding day
In a national demonstration embodying pride in the historical depth of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association held a special celebration to commemorate its founding day at its headquarters in Riyadh. The event witnessed a remarkable turnout from the association's staff and members, who gathered to celebrate the nation's three-century journey of glory and pride, and to reaffirm their loyalty and belonging to this great nation.
Founding Day: A Window into the History of the First Saudi State
Founding Day, which falls on February 22nd each year, is a national occasion to commemorate the historic moment when Imam Muhammad bin Saud – may God have mercy on him – laid the foundation stone of the First Saudi State in 1139 AH (1727 CE). This state was launched from its capital, Diriyah, establishing a strong political entity in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, based on the principles of unity and stability, and solidifying the concept of a centralized state. The Kingdom celebrates this anniversary to connect present generations with the history of their ancestors and to familiarize them with the efforts and sacrifices made to build this great nation.
National segments showcasing cultural depth
The ceremony organized by the association included several speeches and presentations highlighting the profound significance of this occasion. Speakers took turns exploring the Kingdom's rich historical, cultural, and civilizational heritage, emphasizing that February 22nd holds enduring symbolic importance for every citizen. A documentary film was also screened, showcasing the remarkable journey of the scouting movement in the Kingdom, its pioneering and pivotal role in serving the community and developing youth, and how its evolution has been intertwined with the nation's progress and developmental achievements throughout its various stages.
The role of scouting in promoting national identity and youth development
These events are not merely about celebrating the past; they play a vital role in shaping the future. The Scouts Association, as one of the largest youth movements in the Kingdom, bears a significant responsibility in instilling the values of good citizenship in young people. Through these activities, the Association seeks to solidify the values of loyalty and belonging, strengthen pride in Saudi national identity, and draw lessons from the sacrifices of our forefathers. This role aligns with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on strengthening national character and preserving the country's historical and cultural heritage.
Strengthening belonging and remembering sacrifices
At the conclusion of its activities, the association's secretariat affirmed that the ultimate goal of organizing this celebration stems from its deep belief in the importance of enhancing awareness and knowledge among young people about their nation's glorious history. It explained that its communication plan focuses primarily on highlighting the historical and cultural dimensions of the Kingdom, acquainting new generations with the stages of state-building, and the sacrifices of the imams and kings of this nation in unifying its regions and consolidating its security and stability, leading to the comprehensive renaissance and distinguished position we witness today on the international stage.
