The King Faisal Foundation hosted a distinguished delegation of students from Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University on Wednesday and Thursday, November 27 and 28, accompanied by the Foundation’s Secretary-General, His Highness Prince Mansour bin Saad Al Farhan. This visit came as part of the Ministry of Education’s plan to promote awareness of leading national institutions and their roles in scientific research and cultural development.
The tour began at the King Faisal Foundation’s Tower lobby, where the students were introduced to the design of the Foundation’s building, shaped like a book, symbolizing knowledge and learning, and designed by the renowned architect Kenzo Tange and inaugurated in 1982. The students also learned about the adjacent mosque, designed in the form of a pen and inkwell, representing the essential tools needed to write and create books, reflecting the Foundation’s mission centered around knowledge and learning.
During the tour, the students visited Al Faisaliah Tower, the first skyscraper in Saudi Arabia inaugurated in year 2000, and one of the Foundation’s prominent investments. It was brought to the students’ attention that the Faisaliah tower’s design was inspired by the shape of the Mosque of Omar ibn Al-Khattab in Al Jouf, emphasizing the connection between architecture and Islamic identity. They also learned about the Foundation’s investments, such as Al Faisaliah Tower, which is a part of Al Faisaliah District which includes Faisaliah Mall and the Mandarin Oriental Faisaliah Hotel, and how they play a vital role in funding the Foundation’s various projects.
The students also visited the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, one of the most important projects established by the King Faisal Foundation in 1983, where they explored a unique collection of original Arabic manuscripts, comprising approximately 28,500 titles preserved at the Center. They learned about the Center’s efforts to preserve this cultural heritage and make it accessible to researchers.
Another highlight of the tour was the visit to the King Faisal Prize headquarters, launched by the Foundation in 1979, where the students explored exhibition rooms dedicated to the Prize’s five categories: Service to Islam, Islamic Studies, Arabic Language and Literature, Medicine, and Science. They learned about the achievements of over 295 laureates since the Prize’s inception.
Dr. Jamila Abdullah Ahmed Al-Obaidi, General Supervisor of Public Relations and Institutional Vision at Prince Sattam University, expressed her admiration for the Foundation’s efforts in enhancing Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting education and scientific research on a global scale. She stated, “Such visits open vast horizons for our students and inspire them through the stories of national success.”
Some of these students that visited the Foundation were from the colleges of Medicine, Engineering, and Law. They shared their reflections on the connection between their fields and the Foundation’s work. The medical student highlighted the Foundation’s role as a model in supporting medical innovation through its prizes. The engineering student was inspired by the architectural design of the Foundation’s building and its urban projects, while the law student appreciated the Foundation’s role in fostering legal culture through the support of Islamic studies.
The tour concluded with the students expressing their gratitude for the warm reception and the valuable insights they gained, emphasizing that this experience would remain a source of inspiration for their professional futures.
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.
King Faisal Foundation is participating as a golden sponsor in Alfaisal University’s 12th Annual Career Day which brings together a large group of participants from the public, private and non-profit sectors.
This year’s Career Day is being held on Alfaisal University campus under the patronage of HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United States of America. It was launched today January 23 and will continue until January 25, 2024.
His Highness Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid Al Saud, Secretary General of King Faisal Foundation commented, “The participation of King Faisal Foundation in the 12th Career Day held by Alfaisal University is an effort to deepen communication and cooperation with various participants in this event. It further aims to gain insight into the visions of visitors to this exhibition in their professional journey, which can be used for providing more non-profit and development work within our dear country.”
Speaking about His Highness’s opinion on Alfaisal University, which was established by the Foundation 16 years ago, Prince Bandar added “The launch of Alfaisal University came in fulfillment of the Foundation’s vision of serving Islam and peace for humanity, which is derived from the vision of the late King Faisal; may God have mercy on him, and we feel proud of the University’s achievements. In a very short period compared to the age of time, Alfaisal University has become one of the most prominent universities in the Kingdom and the region”.
King Faisal Foundation’s booth in the exhibition showcases the entities operating under its umbrella – King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, King Faisal Prize, King Faisal School, Alfaisal University, and Effat University. A representative from each entity is there to communicate with the visitors and explore career and internship opportunities.
The Foundation’s participation in this exhibition provides an opportunity for its visitors to learn more about its achievements, projects, and goals; being one of the first and most established philanthropic institutions in the Kingdom and the region, and about all its affiliated entities that have excelled with key achievements in their various educational, scientific and research fields.
Alfaisal University was established in 2008 through the initiative of King Faisal Foundation to become the first non-profit private research university in Saudi Arabia. Throughout its short history, Alfaisal University has achieved numerous accomplishments, including being ranked the 51st globally among “universities under the age of fifty”, according to the Times Higher Education 2023-2024 ranking, and the 11th globally in the ranking of the “best small universities with fewer than 5000 students”. Currently, Alfaisal has six colleges in the fields of Business, Engineering, Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences & General Studies, and Law & International Relations.
The university’s launch was overseen by the “Co-Founders Council of the University,” formed by King Faisal Foundation in 2002, in partnership with 10 founders to initiate its establishment and commencement.
King Faisal’s sons and daughters established after his passing the “King Faisal Foundation” in 1976, making it a pioneer philanthropic entity that has gone beyond the concept of traditional charitable work with big strides to fulfill its vision “To Serve Islam and The People of Peace”. It was the first non-profit organization to adopt a business model that achieves independence and sustainability in charitable projects, by relying on investment as a primary source of income and financing non-profit projects and programs that realize its goals.
The Foundation’s work has diversified over the past five decades, comprising scholarship programs to support learners, and philanthropic projects to build schools, universities, health centers, and research centers, with a focus on advancing the educational process in the Kingdom, while enriching scientific research and honoring science and scholars locally, regionally, and internationally.
Professor Jerry Mendell and Professor Howard Chang, among other eminent figures, were selected to win the 46th session of the Prize
January 10, 2024
Professor Jerry Mendell was announced this year’s laureate in King Faisal Prize for Medicine for his groundbreaking contributions to screening, early diagnosis, and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, and Professor Howard Chang was announced this year’s laureate in King Faisal Prize for Science in the field of Biology for his pioneering work in uncovering the significance of long non-coding RNAs in gene regulation and function and his collaborative efforts in advancing genome-wide methodologies to identify DNA regulatory regions. Other laureates’ names were announced to win King Faisal Prize in 2024 for enriching humanity with invaluable achievements and discoveries, and excelling in the fields of Islamic Studies and Serving Islam.
Professor Jerry Mendell’s work lies in the screening, early diagnosis, and treatment of patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and limb girdle muscular dystrophies. The Prize’s Medicine topic for 2024 was “Management of Peripheral Disabilities”.
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) used to be considered the primary genetic contributor to infant mortality. Around 95% of infants that were diagnosed with SMA, did not survive beyond the age of two. Babies with SMA type 1 are missing a gene called survival motor neuron gene 1 (SMN1) which is vital for their development and its absence prevents them from moving, talking, swallowing, and eventually breathing. Professor Mendell, the Director of Gene Therapy Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Curran Peters Chair in Pediatric Research, used gene-therapy to deliver a healthy gene (SMN1) to patients’ cells. He was the first to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of high doses of AAV-mediated gene transfer therapy for individuals diagnosed with SMA type 1. Adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV) are engineered viruses specifically designed to deliver DNA, and in the context of SMA treatment, they carry the genetic encoding of the healthy SMN gene. His therapeutic approach has garnered worldwide approval, and in 2019 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted approval for the first-ever gene therapy treatment for pediatric patients under 2 years of age diagnosed with SMA.
Gene-therapy has also been used by Professor Mendell to correct the genetic mutations for patients suffering from the most common form of muscular dystrophy; Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a progressive neuromuscular disease. In patients with DMD, genetic mutations prevent cells from making dystrophin; a protein responsible for developing and maintaining healthy muscle tissue. While initial symptoms in DMD patients manifest in skeletal muscles, the condition progresses to impact the heart and respiratory functions. Gene therapy serves to rectify this genetic abnormality, enabling the body to generate dystrophin and impede the ongoing degeneration of muscle tissue. In June 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first treatment for pediatric patients 4-5 years old with DMD using the novel gene-therapy co-invented by Professor Mendell and Professor Louise Rodino-Klapac; a post-doctoral fellow in Mendell’s lab at the time. A single injection treatment involves administering a micro-dystrophin gene into an adeno-associated virus serotype (AAVrh74), facilitating the delivery of missing or corrected genes to cells.
Professor Mendell has been involved in clinical trials for gene therapy for limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) including types 2E, 2B, and 2D. LGMD is an umbrella term that represents several rare types of muscular dystrophy that cause muscle weakness in shoulders, upper arms, hips, and upper legs. It is a chronic condition that affects people of all ages. In one of his studies, Prof. Mendell and his team used a single injection of a low dose of a gene therapy vector to address the primary cellular deficit associated with LGMD2B. The approach repaired the injured muscle fibers, reducing degeneration, and enhancing muscle function.
As author of over 400 papers, Prof. Mendell was elected to the National Academy of Medicine in 2021. He was also recognized by the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ASGCT) with a Translational Science Award in his Name. Science Magazine awarded him the Breakthrough Achievement Award in 2017 for SMA Gene Therapy.
As for this year’s Science Prize in the field of Biology, Professor Howard Chang was announced the laureate, for unveiling the intrinsic role of long non-coding RNAs in gene regulation and function, and for his collaborative endeavors in advancing genome-wide methodologies identifying DNA regulatory regions. Such findings are significantly influencing the realms of molecular biology and genetics, contributing to a deeper understanding of intricate human diseases. His research addresses how large sets of genes are turned on or off together, a key point that helps understand normal development, cancer, and aging.
Professor Howard Chang, a physician-scientist, Professor of Dermatology and Genetics, and Virginia and D.K. Ludwig Professor of Cancer Research at Stanford University, has made significant contributions to the field of RNA medicines. His lab’s work has focused on understanding the roles of long noncoding RNAs (a genetic material found in cells) in biological regulation and their potential therapeutic applications. He discovered long sequences of RNA that, in contrast to the better-known messenger (mRNAs) responsible for protein synthesis, do not encode proteins. Prof. Chang discovered that these sequences play a role in influencing DNA accessibility. They act like a magnet for other RNA molecules and alter mRNA splicing, to affect gene expression, among other duties. Despite not encoding proteins, lncRNAs are crucial for controlling the timing and amount of protein production, impacting the overall function and behavior of cells.
In every human cell, 2 meters of DNA are packed in a 10-micron nucleus, so most of the DNA is highly compacted making most of it inaccessible except for the active DNA elements that the cell is using and reading. Discovering the location of these accessible elements provides insights into the cell’s “software”. Prof. Chang’s lab has pioneered techniques to map the landscape of chromatin; the substance that forms chromosomes and consists of DNA and proteins that structure the genome and control gene expression. One groundbreaking technique innovated by Chang’s lab was the Assay of Transposase Accessible Chromatin, which used an enzyme called Tn5 transposase which copies and pastes DNA. This technique led to a million-fold improvement in the sensitivity and hundred-fold improvement in the speed of mapping regulatory DNA – the epigenome- in human cells.
His work unraveled mechanisms and targets in various human diseases, notably cancer, immunity, and development. His recent investigations into extrachromosomal DNA in cancer revealed key findings. Prof. Chang also established the RNA Medicine Program at Stanford, which works to accelerate the discovery and translation of RNA science into human therapeutics.
Prof. Chang’s honors include the NAS Award for Molecular Biology, Outstanding Investigator Award of the National Cancer Institute, Paul Marks Prize for Cancer Research, Judson Daland Prize of the American Philosophical Society, and the Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise. His work was honored by the journal Cell as a Landmark paper over the last 40 years and by Science as “Insight of the decade”.
In addition to Medicine and Science, King Faisal Prize recognized this year the achievements of an outstanding thinker and scholar in the field of Islamic Studies and exemplary leaders who played a pivotal role in serving Islam, Muslims, and humanity at large.
Professor Wael Hallaq, the Avalon Foundation Professor in the Humanities at Columbia University, was selected to receive the “Islamic Studies” prize in “Islamic Legislations and their Contemporary Applications” for 2024. He has provided an academic reference, parallel to the traditional Orientalist writings, that influenced universities around the world. This was evident in his numerous works that were translated into many languages, and his success in establishing a guideline for the development of Islamic legislation.
As for the Service to Islam Prize, the Japan Muslim Association and Dr. Mohammad Sammak, were announced as co-laureates for this year’s 2024 prize.
King Faisal Prize for Arabic Language & Literature for 2024 on the topic of “Non-Arab Institutions and their Endeavors to Promote Arabic” was withheld due to nominated works not elevating to the criteria of the prize.
King Faisal Prize laureates’ names for 2024 were announced today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, by HRH Prince Turki Alfaisal and the Prize’s Secretary General Dr. Abdulaziz Alsebail. Since 1979, King Faisal Prize in its 5 different categories has awarded 295 laureates who have made distinguished contributions to different sciences and causes. Each prize laureate is endowed with USD 200 thousand; a 24-carat gold medal weighing 200 grams, and a Certificate inscribed with the Laureate’s name and a summary of their work which qualified them for the prize.
Professor Jerry Mendell King Faisal Prize for Medicine laureateProfessor Howard Chang King Faisal Prize for Science laureateDr. Mohammad Sammak King Faisal Prize for Service to Islam laureateJapan Muslim Association King Faisal Prize for Service to Islam laureateProfessor Wael Hallaq King Faisal Prize for Islamic Studies laureate
King Faisal Foundation announced the awarding of 104 academic excellence scholarships for the year 2023-2024 to empower outstanding students from King Faisal School, Alfaisal University, and Effat University. The scholarship program is one of the Foundation’s ongoing programs aiming to support and motivate distinguished male and female students.
Notably, 18 students from King Faisal School have attained academic excellence scholarships this year. His Highness Prince Mansour bin Saad Al Saud, the Assistant Secretary-General at King Faisal Foundation, graciously hosted the scholarship recipients and their parents at the Foundation’s headquarters for the signing of the scholarship agreements.
The Merit-based Scholarship Programme reinforces the aims and pursuits of King Faisal Foundation to contribute to the advancement and development of education in the Kingdom. The programme seeks to attract academically distinguished and gifted students, and to provide them with top-notch teaching methods and practices. Its primary objective is to enhance their educational achievements by imparting a range of academic and practical skills and experiences.
King Faisal Foundation had announced last May this year’s merit-based scholarships, outlining the main requirements which include that the applicant should be Saudi Arabian or a resident in Saudi Arabia, with a cumulative GPA of 98% or more, among others. The scholarship is provided partially (50%) or fully (100%) and covers tuition fees and books, depending on the percentage of the scholarship awarded.
Reflecting on the significance of these scholarships, the recipients emphasized the role they play in fostering perseverance, excellence, and motivation towards achieving their goals. They also commended King Faisal School for its commitment to students’ academic development and for providing opportunities that enable them to pursue their future aspirations.
King Faisal School is one of the sustainable projects of King Faisal Foundation, which was launched in 1991 to keep pace with international excellence as a Saudi national private school. The school is the first non-profit school in the Kingdom to receive international academic recognition, offer educational programmes with high academic standards, and introduce the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum into Saudi schools. It has also set a model for providing quality education through IB programmes for students from kindergarten to grade 12. A Girls’ School was opened to elevate the social impact of the school. It should be noted that King Faisal School was the first to introduce civic education prior to its adoption by the Ministry of Education and its formal introduction into the general education curriculum.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Days in Saudi Arabia were successfully concluded yesterday Wednesday at Jeddah Knowledge International School. Organized through a collaboration between King Faisal Foundation and the International Baccalaureate, and several schools, three engaging and informative sessions shed light on the implementation of IB programs within the Kingdom. The IB Days commenced on September 7 at the Dhahran Ahliyya Schools, followed by the second event on September 12 at King Faisal School in Riyadh, and culminated with the final event in Jeddah on September 13.
Distinguished representatives from the International Baccalaureate organization, including Dr. Sumaya Alyusuf, International Baccalaureate Development and Recognition Manager, Dr. Kawther Saa’d AlDin, Development and Recognition Manager at the International Baccalaureate, and Mrs. Mary Tadros, Senior Manager, Development, Recognition and e-Assessment at the International Baccalaureate, provided the audience with information about the Primary Years Program (PYP), the Middle Years Program (MYP), the Diploma Program (DP), and the Career-related Program (CP). One of the main focuses of IB Days was to foster constructive discussions between IB representatives, educators, and school principals and leaders. These discussions emphasized the road maps for transforming schools interested in offering the IB program into authorized IB schools. Participants were provided with valuable insights about the benefits of IB education including its offering of good quality of education and holistic student development. IB representative cited studies demonstrating that IB graduates were 40% more likely to obtain a first- or second-class honors degrees than other exam board students. They also stated that IB students possess significantly higher levels of critical thinking compared to non-IB peers in high school, and that more than 90% of schools agree that IB enhances students’ transition into todays labor market.
IB Days took place in the context of the collaborative project between King Faisal Foundation and the International Baccalaureate (IB) that was initiated back in 2007. The initial phase, beginning in 2008, was centered around King Faisal School, which served as a pioneering institution for the development and implementation of region-specific training modules for primary school educators. Subsequently, the second phase, initiated in 2014, expanded its support to encompass the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) and IB Middle Years Program (MYP). This expansion aimed to substantially increase the availability of Arabic-language educational programs across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Additionally, it involved the establishment of a network of trainers capable of facilitating teacher professional development in Saudi Arabia and the wider Arabic-speaking world. Furthermore, support was extended to existing IB Diploma Program (DP) students studying in Arabic. King Faisal Foundation has invested over SAR 9 million ($2.5 million) in this transformative project.
King Faisal Foundation Assistant Secretary-General His Highness Prince Mansour bin Saad Al Saud commented on the three IB Days in Saudi Arabia, saying, “The collaboration between King Faisal Foundation and the International Baccalaureate Organization has led to 14 primary schools and 16 middle schools embarking on the journey towards implementing the International Baccalaureate program by the end of year 2018. As a consequential outcome, over 10 schools from various regions within the Kingdom achieved accreditation. At King Faisal Foundation, our commitment to advancing education through sustainable projects such as King Faisal Schools, Alfaisal University, and Effat University is unwavering. We strive to establish educational and research models that consistently yield exceptional outcomes and set a benchmark for others to follow. As part of this dedication, we have forged a close partnership with the esteemed International Baccalaureate Organization, renowned for its educational expertise and stringent quality standards. This collaboration, initiated by the Foundation, aims to expand educational horizons and foster opportunities for the implementation of International Baccalaureate programs within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It aligns seamlessly with our vision at King Faisal Foundation and with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to elevate educational excellence across the nation.”
The International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) is one of the leading international educational organizations in the world offering academic programs for students aged 3 to 19. The IB enables students to develop important skills for the future like analytical and critical thinking skills in addition to scientific research skills as well as fostering their personalities through providing them with a good understanding of research tools, encouraging them to serve the community, cultivating a deep sense of intellectual passion and curiosity among them, and enhancing their openness to different cultures. These programs also provide a holistic and globally minded learning experience preparing students with skills that extend far beyond the classroom so that they can become informed and educated citizens, committed to contributing meaningfully to society, equipped with the awareness to address harmful ideas and ideologies, and ready to embrace the opportunities of an ever-evolving landscape.
Dr. Sumaya Alyusuf, International Baccalaureate Development and Recognition Manager, said in this regard, “We need an education that blends cutting edge intelligence with cutting edge compassion, an IB education which asserts our Saudi identity and develops international mindedness.”
“IB Days” are being organized in collaboration between King Faisal Foundation and the International Baccalaureate. Held at King Faisal School on September 12, Dhahran Ahliyya Schools on September 7, and Jeddah Knowledge International School on September 13, the IB Days will provide invaluable insights into the world of IB education, its numerous benefits, and its comprehensive programs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This event is part of the cooperation between the Foundation and the International Baccalaureate, which began in 2007. Its first phase starting in 2008 was focused on King Faisal School, with the school serving as a “pilot” for developing and delivering local-specific modules for training for primary school teachers. Its second phase started in 2014 and extended support for the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) and IB Middle Years Program (MYP) so that there can be substantially more programs offered in Arabic throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, developed a network of trainers that can conduct teacher professional development in Saudi Arabia and the Arabic-speaking world, and provided support for existing IB Diploma Program (DP) students in Arabic. Over SAR 9 million ($2.5 million) has been invested by the King Faisal Foundation in this project.
The information sessions come within King Faisal Foundation’s efforts and contributions to the development of the educational system in the Kingdom. These efforts are also in line with a key component of the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 outlining the need to close the gap between educational outputs and job market demands, develop general education, and guide students towards career options and professional development.
The International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) is one of the leading international educational organizations in the world offering academic programs for students aged 3 to 19. By developing intellectual and scientific curiosity, the IB fosters knowledge and culture among students, enabling them to develop important skills for the future.
The International Baccalaureate programs hold an intrinsic role in developing students’ analytical and critical thinking skills in addition to fostering their personalities through providing them with a good understanding of research tools, encouraging them to serve the community, cultivating a deep sense of intellectual passion and curiosity among them, and enhancing their openness to different cultures. These programs also provide a holistic and globally minded learning experience preparing students with skills that extend far beyond the classroom so that they can become informed and educated citizens, committed to contributing meaningfully to society, equipped with the awareness to address harmful ideas and ideologies, and ready to embrace the opportunities of an ever-evolving landscape.
The IB Days aim to provide a unique opportunity to gain deeper insights into the successful implementation of IB programs within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and to learn about IB Education, where comprehensive information will be presented on its programs, including the Primary Years Program (PYP), the Middle Years Program (MYP) the Diploma Program (DP) and the Career-related Program (CP). Several aspects and benefits of this global education system will be discussed, as well as the steps involved in becoming an IB world school.
King Faisal Foundation is honored to announce and celebrate the exceptional achievement of Rayyanah Barnawi, an accomplished graduate of Alfaisal University, who has been selected as the first female Saudi astronaut to embark on a groundbreaking space mission and one of the first two Saudi astronauts to travel and land on the International Space Station, taking off tomorrow May 21. Rayyanah Barnawi’s remarkable accomplishment serves as a testament to her indomitable spirit, perseverance, and the world-class education she received at Alfaisal University where she earned her master’s degree in biomedical sciences – with the First Class of Honor.
As a biomedical researcher with more than 9 years of experience in stem cell and tissue re-engineering programs at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Rayyanah Barnawi will operate as a mission specialist on the Axiom Space’s Mission 2. She will perform 14 experiments on the International Space Station in low-gravity settings in various fields of medicine, biology, and physics, including immune cell transplantation, artificial rain-seeding, and other experiments on the brain and nervous system.Moreover, she will be conducting educational-awareness experiments for children on Earth for more than 12,000 Saudi students via live feed. In doing so, Rayyanah Barnawi will serve as an inspiration for aspiring students and young scientists, particularly women in Saudi Arabia and the Arab World, who have dreams and goals to travel to space. She will be joined by the Saudi astronaut Ali Al Qarni in her mission to space. The mission is part of the Kingdom’s astronauts’ program, launched on 22 September 2022, and conveys Saudi Arabia’s aspirations in space research, one of Vision 2030 goals.
Growing up in Riyadh, Rayyanah Barnawi has consistently demonstrated an unwavering passion for exploration and learning in general, as she mentioned in a tweet on her personal Twitter account, leading her to scientific research and then to space exploration. Her journey represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of women’s empowerment and serves as a powerful reminder that no dream is too big to achieve with tenacity and perseverance.
King Faisal Foundation, founded in 1976 and renowned for promoting education and scientific research, proudly supports individuals like Rayyanah Barnawi who embody the spirit of exploration, discovery, and innovation. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Rayyanah Barnawi on this historic achievement, which has made Saudi Arabia proud.
Alfaisal University, launched by King Faisal Foundation in 2002and received its first batch of students 15 years ago in 2008, is distinguished for its commitment to academic excellence and is dedicated to fostering the intellectual and professional growth of its students. It takes great pride in the achievements of its graduates. Alfaisal University’s interdisciplinary approach to education and emphasis on research and innovation have contributed to the success of its graduates, as exemplified by Rayyanah Barnawi’s remarkable achievements. Alfaisal University achieved many accomplishments, notably ranking 36th worldwide for young universities under the age of 50, according to the Times Higher Education 2022 ranking, and 8th worldwide in the ranking of the best small universities with a student population of less than 5,000.
A delegation from King Faisal Foundation visited the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) premises. The delegation comprised His Highness Prince Mansour bin Saad Al Saud, Assistant Secretary-General of the Foundation, Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Sabeel, Secretary General of King Faisal Prize, Engineer Soliman AlMezied, Dr. Amira Al Munayer, and Mr. Fadi Dahhan.
The meeting was attended by His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al-Swailem, CEO of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP), Engineer Sami AlSudais, Executive Vice President for Intellectual Property Policies and Partnerships, Dr. Ali Al-Shanqiti, Executive Vice President of Intellectual Property Operations, Mr. Ahmed Al-Murshidi, and Ms. Ghaida Al-Muqrin.
The meeting highlighted the role of SAIP in protecting and enhancing intellectual property rights. It also emphasized SAIP’s most prominent activities and tasks locally and internationally.
The two sides discussed prospects of cooperation in creating intellectual property policies for King Faisal Foundation and its affiliates. They also discussed the collaboration towards identifying the areas which must be protected and benefiting from the intellectual property services provided by SAIP, including consultation and training for King Faisal Foundation and for its non-profit and profit sectors alike. Other areas of cooperation may include the possibility of introducing intellectual property in the general educational curriculum of King Faisal School making it a role model for other schools, in addition to collaboration in studies and research focused on intellectual property.
Prince Mansour bin Saad Al Saud praised the role assumed by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) in enhancing the competitiveness of Saudi Arabia’s economy as SAIP encourages and protects national industries, works with research institutions to provide studies on intellectual property, and prepares specialists in the field of IP protection in the Kingdom. The meeting also discussed the importance of SAIP’s “Intellectual Property Academy” which offers a specialist certificate program for preparing IP Respect Officers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
King Faisal Foundation announced that it has recently established official relations with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for a renewable period of six years.
“This step is a testimony to the Foundation’s international presence and a recognition of its role and accomplishments towards achieving its vision of serving Islam and all humanity”, said Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid, Secretary General of the King Faisal Foundation. He added that “we are also keen to continually benchmark the Foundation’s activities and social impact with leading international NGOs and non-profit organizations particularly those which focus on education and research.”
In his letter to H.R.H. Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Chief Executive Officer of King Faisal Foundation, the Director-General of the UNESCO stated that “KFF’s work is clearly relevant to the current programmes and priorities of UNESCO and this official relationship will undoubtedly offer new opportunities to increase the impact of our respective actions, particularly in the fields of education, science and youth.”
The King Faisal Foundation is an international philanthropic organization established in 1976 with the mission of preserving and perpetuating King Faisal’s legacy. It has invested heavily in the advancement of education, has contributed to nurturing cultural affairs, and has supported science, scientists and scholars through its different programs and initiatives, which have benefitted millions of people over the years. By raising the bar and adopting higher standards, the Foundation has served as a role model for other non-profit organizations in the domains of education and academic research, although several of its initiatives remain unmatched in terms of scope and impact on society and the greater human community. Such pioneering projects include King Faisal Prize, King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, Alfaisal University, Effat University and King Faisal School.
The newly established relations mark as extension of an earlier collaboration between King Faisal Foundation and the UNESCO on the formation of King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies. The center was inaugurated in 1983 and has since served many causes and tens of thousands of students, researchers, employees and many other beneficiaries.
It is anticipated that the official relations established with the UNESCO will provide further impetus to King Faisal Foundation to expand its geographical presence and impact which is already huge thanks to the affiliate programs and initiatives it has established over the past forty-four years.
King Faisal Foundation’s new relationship reflects the Kingdom’s efforts to support and encourage local non-governmental organizations to participate in activities organized by foreign, regional and international NGOs, and to seek affiliations and partnerships with them.
