Umm Al-Qura University Scientific Forum to Promote Intellectual Awareness and National Belonging

Under the patronage of the President of Umm Al-Qura University, Professor Dr. Maadi bin Mohammed Al-Mathhab, the university's Intellectual Awareness Unit organized the "Second Scientific Forum for Graduate Students," held this year under the theme "Promoting Intellectual Awareness and National Identity." This forum serves as a leading scientific platform, bringing together a select group of researchers, experts, and graduate students to discuss contemporary intellectual issues and develop the research skills of the rising generation of academics.

Background and significance of the event

Umm Al-Qura University, located in the heart of Mecca, is one of the oldest and most prestigious academic institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, playing a pivotal role in shaping cultural and intellectual awareness. In line with its educational and community mission, the university has consistently organized scholarly events that contribute to achieving national goals. This forum, in its second edition, is a continuation of the university's efforts to enrich the research landscape and provide a stimulating environment for constructive scholarly dialogue, in accordance with the Kingdom's strategic directions and Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society and citizens proud of their national identity.

The objectives of the forum and its expected impact

The forum primarily aims to foster intellectual awareness and national belonging among young people, and to immunize them against extremist ideologies and intellectual deviations. It also seeks to empower graduate students to actively participate in addressing societal issues with a sound scientific methodology, and to train them in research writing, presentation skills, and participation in scientific conferences. The forum is expected to contribute to developing a cadre of informed researchers capable of serving their nation and society, and of offering innovative solutions to contemporary intellectual challenges, thus strengthening the university's role as a center of scientific and intellectual influence at both the local and regional levels.

Key themes and rich discussions

The forum featured the presentation and discussion of 30 research papers, focusing on three main themes: issues of intellectual awareness and national belonging, the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in combating intellectual deviations, and mechanisms for protecting youth from intellectual extremism. These papers contributed to highlighting the role of educational institutions in instilling the values ​​of moderation, tolerance, and centrism.

In this context, University President Professor Maadi Al-Mathhab affirmed that the forum embodies the university's commitment to building intellectual awareness and strengthening national identity through supporting purposeful scientific research. He also noted the university's dedication to providing a stimulating academic environment that contributes to consolidating the values ​​of moderation and balance, and to activating the role of universities in intellectually safeguarding society.

For his part, Dr. Saleh Al-Furaih, supervisor of the Intellectual Awareness Unit at the university, explained that the forum represents a scientific platform to highlight the efforts of graduate students and researchers in addressing intellectual issues and promoting a culture of dialogue and national belonging, in a way that serves the goals of comprehensive development in the Kingdom.