The “Talent Classes” program tests for the 2025-2026 academic year began today, with over 8,000 male and female students from across the Kingdom participating. The tests are being held in 26 accredited centers distributed across 13 cities, reflecting the program's geographical expansion and its commitment to reaching the largest possible number of talented young people in Saudi Arabia.
A qualitative leap towards full digital transformation
This year's assessment marks a significant milestone in the program's history, as it represents a complete transition to a computerized system for all targeted grade levels. This shift is not merely about keeping pace with technological advancements, but also aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the assessment process. The computerized system accelerates the correction and data analysis processes, enabling the generation of detailed performance reports that help students and schools understand their strengths and areas for improvement in a scientific and objective manner.
Historical context and strategic objectives of “Mawhiba”
The “Mawhiba Classes” program is one of the flagship initiatives of the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), established in 1999 as a leading national entity dedicated to discovering and nurturing gifted individuals in the Kingdom. The “Mawhiba Classes” program was first launched in 2009 in partnership with the Ministry of Education, aiming to provide a stimulating and specialized learning environment for gifted students within public schools. The program targets students from the fourth grade of elementary school through the third year of secondary school, offering them advanced enrichment curricula in science and mathematics, developed in collaboration with renowned international and local experts.
National importance and future impact
The program's significance lies in its strategic investment in the Kingdom's human capital. By identifying gifted students at an early age and providing them with academic and personal support, the program contributes to building a generation of leaders and innovators capable of shaping the future. Locally, the program works to elevate performance in partner schools, transforming them into beacons of scientific excellence. Internationally, Mawhiba students have demonstrated their ability to compete and achieve global success in international science Olympiads and competitions, raising the Kingdom's profile on the world stage.
The objectives of the “Mawhiba Program” align directly with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes the importance of building a knowledge-based economy and fostering a culture of innovation. Graduates of this program and other Mawhiba programs are the true driving force behind sustainable development and achieving leadership in scientific and technological fields of national priority.
Comprehensive support for the talent ecosystem
The support provided by Mawhiba extends beyond students to include teachers and schools. The program offers a comprehensive package of services to partner schools, including specialized teacher training programs, educational consultations, and internationally accredited assessment tools. This holistic approach ensures the creation of an integrated learning environment capable of nurturing and developing talent according to global best practices, which positively impacts the overall quality of educational outcomes.
