King Abdulaziz University: 4 Early Childhood Education Tracks and 600 Female Students
In a move reflecting the commitment of Saudi educational institutions to developing national talent, King Abdulaziz University highlighted the advanced academic progress in the Early Childhood Department at the Faculty of Human Sciences and Design. This came during the department's celebration of World Children's Day 2025, held under the theme "I Express... With Creative Hands," amidst a high-level official and academic presence, reflecting the growing importance of this specialization in the Kingdom.
A national context that supports childhood
This academic focus aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which has given exceptional attention to the education sector, particularly early childhood education. Recent years have witnessed a significant expansion in the establishment of kindergartens and curriculum development, creating a pressing need for specialized and qualified national professionals trained according to the latest international standards. The Early Childhood Department at King Abdulaziz University is a cornerstone in meeting this national need, working to bridge the gap between educational outcomes and the evolving demands of the labor market in this vital sector.
High-quality academic pathways and world-class expertise
Professor Dr. Nahla bint Mahmoud Qahwaji, Dean of the College of Human Sciences and Designs and Professor of Early Childhood Education, explained that the department does not only grant bachelor's degrees, but also offers a specialized master's program comprising four specific and precise tracks, designed to cover all aspects of the educational process, namely:
- The path of education and learning.
- Educational leadership path in early childhood.
- The path of learning difficulties in early childhood.
- The path of talent and genius in early childhood.
Dr. Kahwaji emphasized that the department boasts a distinguished faculty of academics holding degrees from top international universities, ensuring the high quality of education provided to approximately 600 female students currently enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. This significant number reflects the growing demand and societal awareness of the importance of this specialization in shaping future generations.
International partnerships and the "Children's Voices" project
The event wasn't limited to theoretical discussions; it also saw the activation of international partnerships through the "Children's Voices" project, implemented in partnership with University College London (UCL) and the Bright Start Foundation. These partnerships aim to transfer and localize global expertise, thereby enhancing the Kingdom's position as a leading center for education.
The celebration included an art exhibition featuring children from ten Jeddah schools, whose artwork reflected their visions and dreams, thus activating the child's right to expression and participation. The event was generously sponsored by His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of "Ahya'ha Al Insaniyah" (Reviving Humanity), and Her Highness Princess Sura bint Saud bin Saad Al Saud, lending strategic depth and leadership support to these educational initiatives.
In conclusion, this academic movement at King Abdulaziz University represents a model to be emulated in how to integrate academic education with practical application and international partnerships, to ensure the graduation of a generation of female teachers and leaders capable of creating a bright future for the children of the Kingdom.
