Riyadh, February 11, 2024, In a landmark collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and King Saud University in Riyadh, the College of Arts was officially inaugurated, marking a significant milestone as the first specialized institution dedicated to arts education in Saudi Arabia.
The inauguration ceremony, held today at the university's theater, witnessed the esteemed presence of Vice Minister of Culture, Hamed bin Mohammed Fayez, and President of King Saud University, Dr. Badran bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar, alongside enthusiasts of culture and the arts from across the Kingdom.
During his address at the ceremony, Fayez underscored the significance of the newly established College of Arts, reflecting the commitment of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the Minister of Culture, to education and its pivotal role in fostering cultural growth. He emphasized the pivotal role of education in driving the development and advancement of the cultural sector within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030.
Fayez highlighted the establishment of the college as a monumental achievement in the evolution of higher cultural education in the Kingdom, poised to have a profound impact on national cultural development. He emphasized that this initiative sets the stage for an academic journey crucial for nurturing creative talents and propelling cultural progress.
Moreover, Fayez elucidated that the establishment of the college is a tangible outcome of the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Culture and King Saud University, representing an integral step towards realizing the objectives outlined in the National Strategy for Culture and its derived strategy for the development of cultural capacities. The primary aim is to meet the demands of the job market by producing highly skilled cultural professionals who will spearhead the sector towards achieving ambitious national objectives.
The college's initial launch includes three departments specializing in design, performing arts, and visual arts, signifying just the beginning of an enduring collaboration with King Saud University and other esteemed national institutions.
Following the ceremony, attendees explored an accompanying exhibition showcasing the newly launched college, providing insights into the Saudi cultural landscape and the myriad opportunities available for students to hone their skills and pursue careers in cultural professions under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture. The objectives of the college's establishment include delivering high-quality specialized academic programs adhering to both national and international standards, fostering a supportive educational and artistic environment for research and innovation, and attracting exceptional students based on specific admission criteria. Additionally, the college is entrusted with conducting specialized research and scientific studies in the field of arts, further enhancing its academic standing and contribution to cultural advancement.