The advanced Wood Badge training course, organized by the General Directorate of Education in the Qassim region under the supervision of the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association, commenced today and will continue until Thursday, Sha'ban 17, 1447 AH (corresponding to August 20, 2026). Thirty aspiring scout leaders are actively participating. This event is part of ongoing efforts to develop scouting activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and enhance the skills of field leaders.
The importance of the wood badge and the scouting context
The Wood Badge is one of the most prestigious and long-established training programs in the global Scouting movement, symbolizing merit and high competence in Scouting leadership. Its importance extends beyond the local level, rooted in global Scouting traditions that aim to unify leadership concepts and refine the educational skills of leaders, enabling them to guide boys and young men using modern educational methods that align with contemporary changes, while preserving core Scouting values and principles.
Alignment with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and volunteer work
During the opening ceremony, the study leader, Abdulaziz Al-Rubaie, emphasized that the core of scouting is fundamentally based on the principle of volunteerism. He noted that the Kingdom's scouting movement is progressing steadily according to precise and multi-pronged strategic plans, directly aimed at contributing to the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. He highlighted the vital role of scouting in developing the volunteer work system, as the Kingdom strives to reach one million volunteers. The scouting movement is working to achieve this goal by increasing the number of qualified volunteers, thereby strengthening the role of volunteering in sustainable development at the local, national, and international levels.
Advanced Training and Qualification Methodology
Al-Rubaie explained that organizing this study reflects the General Directorate of Education in Qassim's commitment to supporting and encouraging scouting activities, given its effective role in building the character of young people and developing their leadership skills. The study aims to develop participants' abilities in leading scouting units and qualify them to earn the Wood Badge through an intensive and comprehensive training program that combines theoretical academic sessions with practical field applications.
The training content includes several modules, including:
- Unit leader responsibilities and modern leadership styles.
- Methods of training young people and understanding the psychology of different age groups.
- Strategic planning and the characteristics of a successful plan.
- Scouting curricula and their relationship to community service and development.
- Fundamentals of research preparation and development of financial and human resources.
Field skills and outdoor adventure
Al-Rubaie concluded by noting that the program will culminate in a practical camping trip, a real-world test of the knowledge participants have acquired. During this trip, the leaders will gain advanced land navigation skills, master the art of using secret signs, and develop topographic mapping abilities, as well as skills in estimation, navigation, and deciphering coded messages. This practical component aims to foster self-reliance, teamwork, and the integration of scouting principles into a realistic environment, ensuring the development of a generation of scout leaders capable of assuming responsibility and leading teams effectively and competently.
