Launch of the Media Scholarship Program: 100 seats for Saudis at international universities
In a strategic move aimed at elevating the Saudi media sector and enhancing the capabilities of its human resources, the Minister of Media, Mr. Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossari, announced the launch of the “Media Scholarship Program,” a qualitative leap in the Kingdom’s media development. This initiative, undertaken in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Education, provides 100 talented Saudis with the opportunity to enroll in prestigious international universities specializing in media, communication, and content creation.
Program details and education partnership
Minister Al-Dossari explained that the program aims to attract young Saudi talent and equip them with the latest knowledge and professional skills to keep pace with the rapid developments in the global media landscape. The collaboration with the Ministry of Education ensures that scholarship recipients are directed towards specialized and in-demand fields needed by the local media job market, thus helping to bridge the gap between academic output and the evolving needs of the media industry.
Strategic context and Vision 2030
This step cannot be separated from the broader context of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the Human Capital Development Program, which aims to cultivate a globally competitive citizenry. The media sector is a cornerstone of a nation's soft power, therefore, investing in human capital in this field is an investment in the Kingdom's image and international standing. Historically, Saudi media has undergone numerous phases of development, but this current phase is characterized by a shift towards high professionalism and reliance on digital technology and artificial intelligence, which necessitates a new generation equipped with knowledge from the most prestigious academic institutions.
Saudi Media Forum Initiatives
This significant announcement came during the Saudi Media Forum, which was held under the theme "Media in a Changing World." The Minister's announcement extended beyond the scholarship program, revealing a package of 12 key initiatives aimed at strengthening the sector's infrastructure, most notably the "Saudi Mub" media innovation camp. The forum witnessed a remarkable turnout of over 300 media leaders and experts from around the world, reflecting the regional and international importance of this event.
Expected impact and future of media
The Media Scholarship Program is expected to have a wide-ranging positive impact in the medium and long term. Locally, the return of these graduates will raise the quality of Saudi media content and enhance professionalism in newspapers, television channels, and digital platforms. Regionally, these graduates will bolster the Kingdom's leadership in the Arab media industry. In his address, Al-Dossari emphasized that the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, may God protect him, for the forum gave the event a broader dimension and deeper vision. He also noted the great success of the accompanying Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX), which attracted more than 250 local and international companies showcasing the latest communication and broadcasting technologies.
