The King Abdulaziz and his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, known as Mawhiba, has signed a significant partnership agreement with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This collaboration aims to enhance science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education across Arab countries. The partnership, announced on July 20, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in advancing innovation, creativity, and scientific excellence in the region. Mawhiba and UNESCO are committed to empowering young minds and promoting sustainable development through education and innovation.
The partnership between Mawhiba and UNESCO is set to revolutionize STEM education in Arab countries. The initiative focuses on students from 6th to 12th grade, aiming to refine their scientific knowledge, nurture creativity, and foster critical thinking. Special attention will be given to empowering Arab girls and young women, ensuring they have equal opportunities to excel in STEM fields.
Mawhiba’s secretary-general, Dr. Amal bint Abdullah Al-Hazzaa, expressed profound honor in partnering with UNESCO. She emphasized the shared commitment to advancing sustainable development through education and innovation. Highlighting the progress in STEM under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Dr. Al-Hazzaa underscored the importance of this collaboration within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030.
UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, Dr. Lidia Arthur Brito, echoed these sentiments, stating that the partnership aims to provide young people with the necessary knowledge and capabilities to meet global challenges. The experience gained by Mawhiba in working with youth in Saudi Arabia will help in exchanging these experiences globally, potentially expanding efforts to Africa and other parts of the world.
The MAWHIBA-UNESCO Online STEM Oasis
Central to the initiative is the MAWHIBA-UNESCO Online STEM Oasis, a global platform for local, national, and regional science and engineering fairs. This platform will provide Arab students with valuable opportunities to showcase their talents and gain international recognition. The Online STEM Oasis aims to create a vibrant community of young scientists and engineers, fostering collaboration and innovation.
The platform will feature various resources, including virtual labs, interactive workshops, and mentorship programs. These resources are designed to enhance students’ learning experiences and provide them with the tools they need to succeed in STEM fields. By leveraging technology, the Online STEM Oasis will make high-quality STEM education accessible to students across the Arab world.
The initiative also includes plans for annual STEM competitions, where students can present their projects and innovations. These competitions will not only recognize and reward outstanding achievements but also inspire other students to pursue their interests in science and technology. The MAWHIBA-UNESCO Online STEM Oasis is poised to become a cornerstone of STEM education in the region.
Empowering the Next Generation
The partnership between Mawhiba and UNESCO is more than just an educational initiative; it is a commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. By providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in STEM fields, the initiative aims to create a brighter future for the Arab world. This collaboration will help bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.
The focus on empowering girls and young women is particularly significant, as it addresses the gender gap in STEM fields. By providing equal opportunities and support, the initiative aims to inspire more girls to pursue careers in science and technology. This will not only benefit the students themselves but also contribute to the overall development and progress of their communities.
The partnership also aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable development and address pressing challenges such as climate change, health, and economic inequality. By fostering a culture of innovation and scientific excellence, Mawhiba and UNESCO are helping to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.
