Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 26, 2024: The King Faisal Foundation (KFF), in collaboration with BAE Systems, successfully hosted two specialized STEM sessions at King Faisal School aimed at introducing primary-level students to the exciting world of aviation. Held in separate sessions for boys and girls, the hands-on workshops gave students an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge concepts in aerospace and engineering, sparking interest in careers that support the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.
The workshops, themed around aviation and airplane technologies, allowed students to engage in model-building activities, interactive discussions, and problem-solving challenges that mirrored real-world scenarios in the aviation industry. These sessions were designed not only to educate but to inspire young minds to envision themselves as future leaders in this vital sector.
Building on a Strong Partnership
These sessions mark a significant milestone in the collaboration between KFF and BAE Systems. Since the signing of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2018, the two organizations have worked closely to promote STEM education and career exploration among Saudi youth. The partnership aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify its economy and develop a highly skilled, innovation-driven workforce.
Chris Worth, Continuous Improvement Director at BAE Systems, praised the initiative and the results of the long-standing partnership. He mentioned that:
The collaboration between BAE Systems and the King Faisal Foundation has yielded impactful programs that inspire and equip young minds with the skills they need to thrive in STEM fields. By introducing students to aviation early in their educational journeys, we are not only sparking curiosity but also paving the way for them to contribute to the aerospace field and beyond. We are proud to be a part of this transformative journey.
Chris continued to emphasize how this training bridges the gap between the learning system at school and the workplace saying:
“We start to look at how we get the kids to understand those roles (customer service, customer product, customer training, and cyber security). It’s not just about being a pilot; there’s a lot of other activities to help that pilot become a pilot. All the training, all the learning, and all the activities around that. So, we try and bring that into these forums.”
Student Reactions Highlight the Success of the Program
The enthusiasm among the students was palpable, with many expressing newfound interest in aviation-related careers. One student from the boys’ session shared, “It was amazing to learn how airplanes work. I never thought I could one day become a pilot or an engineer, but this session showed me it’s possible.”
Similarly, a student from the girls’ session remarked, “I loved building models and learning about aviation technology. It made me realize there are so many opportunities for girls in this field. I’m excited to explore more.”
The inclusion of both boys and girls in these workshops reinforces the vision of a more inclusive Saudi society, where young talents, regardless of gender, can contribute to shaping the nation’s future.
A Step Toward Vision 2030 Goals
By exposing students to innovative industries at an early stage, KFF and BAE Systems are helping to build a pipeline of talent prepared to meet the demands of Saudi Arabia’s growing aviation sector. This initiative supports Vision 2030’s broader goals of economic diversification, women empowerment, and fostering a knowledge-based society.
The sessions also emphasized the importance of bridging education and industry to ensure that students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in high-demand fields like aviation.
Commitment to STEM and Beyond
The King Faisal Foundation has long been at the forefront of educational innovation in Saudi Arabia. Through its partnership with BAE Systems, KFF continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing students with transformative learning opportunities that broaden their horizons and encourage them to dream big.
Looking ahead, KFF and BAE Systems plan to expand the reach of their joint initiatives, bringing similar STEM workshops to other schools across the Kingdom. The goal is to inspire thousands of young minds to pursue careers in aviation, engineering, and other STEM fields critical to Saudi Arabia’s future development.
About King Faisal Foundation
The King Faisal Foundation (KFF) is one of the leading philanthropic organizations in Saudi Arabia, dedicated to fostering educational and cultural initiatives that empower youth and promote innovation. Established in 1976, the Foundation is committed to advancing knowledge, creativity, and excellence in various fields.
About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is a global leader in defense, aerospace, and security. With a strong presence in Saudi Arabia, the company works closely with local organizations and institutions to promote skill development, technology transfer, and innovation in the region.
