"The Talented Youth": An educational initiative to cultivate future leaders
In a strategic move aimed at breaking away from traditional education, the Saudi Ministry of Education launched the "Shahem Al-Mawhoob" initiative, a unique program designed to develop leadership and social skills among gifted male and female students. This initiative promotes the concept of experiential learning in safe and structured outdoor environments, representing a significant shift in the methods of nurturing gifted students in the Kingdom.
An educational vision that keeps pace with future aspirations
This initiative is not isolated from the broader context of educational development in the Kingdom; rather, it is an integral part of the objectives of the Human Capacity Development Program, one of the programs under the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Through the "Shahm Al-Mawhoob" (Talented Student) program, the Ministry seeks to cultivate the character of gifted students not only academically, but also psychologically, socially, and in terms of leadership. This approach reflects a deep understanding that future leadership requires soft skills such as flexibility, adaptability, and decision-making under pressure—skills that are difficult to acquire solely within the confines of the classroom.
A global approach in stunning Saudi environments
The initiative is based on the global "Outward Bound" methodology, a renowned outdoor learning approach that focuses on learning through adventure and hands-on experience. The initiative is centered on providing practical experiences through purposeful activities and adventures that contribute to building independent character, fostering self-reliance, and instilling values of discipline, responsibility, and teamwork.
The initiative, in its current phase, targets gifted male and female students through 20 educational trips, involving 600 students. The trip locations were carefully selected to reflect the Kingdom's geographical and environmental diversity, including the central region at the King Khalid Reserve, the northern region at the King Salman Reserve, the western region at the Al-Shafa highlands in Taif, and the southern region at the Tanuma Mountains in the Asir region. This diversity provides students with an opportunity to explore their country's natural treasures while fostering their environmental awareness.
Expected impact: A confident generation of leaders
The “Shahem Al-Mawhoob” initiative is expected to have a tangible, long-term impact, aiming to create a sustainable, leadership-oriented educational experience. By placing students in situations that require collaboration and problem-solving in nature, it cultivates a confident generation capable of leadership and positive engagement with their community. Investing in talented individuals through such high-quality programs is an investment in future leaders who will be responsible for continuing the Kingdom’s development and progress.
