The “Advanced Wood Badge Training Course,” organized by the General Directorate of Education in the Qassim region under the supervision of the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association, has commenced. Thirty scout leaders from various sectors are participating in this intensive course, which aims to refine their skills and deepen their understanding of the philosophy of the scouting movement. The course will continue until the 17th of Sha’ban.
Historical background and importance of the wooden badge
The Wood Badge is the highest leadership qualification in Scouting worldwide, recognizing competence and experience in leading Scout troops. Its history dates back to 1919, when the founder of Scouting, Lord Robert Baden-Powell, launched it at Gilwell Park in England as a training center for Scout unit leaders. Since then, the badge, consisting of two wooden beads, has become a global symbol of commitment and excellence in Scout leadership, with its program aiming to equip leaders with the tools to effectively manage their troops and inspire young people to reach their full potential.
Study objectives and their alignment with Vision 2030
During the opening ceremony, the study leader, Abdulaziz Al-Rubaie, emphasized that scouting is fundamentally based on volunteering and community service. He noted that the Kingdom's scouts operate according to an ambitious strategy aimed at directly contributing to the goals of Vision 2030. This is achieved through developing the volunteer work system and increasing the number of volunteers, thus promoting sustainable development across all sectors. He explained that organizing this study reflects the Qassim Education Department's commitment to supporting the scouting movement, based on its belief in the movement's pivotal role in shaping young people's character and developing their leadership and community skills.
Integrated training program
The study aims to develop participants' abilities in leading scouting units and prepare them for advanced training. The comprehensive training program includes theoretical sessions and practical applications covering vital topics such as: the responsibilities of a unit leader, youth training methods, modern leadership theories, strategic planning, and updated scouting curricula. The program also focuses on strengthening the scouting movement's relationship with the community, developing resources, and conducting field research that serves scouting objectives.
Al-Rubaie concluded by noting that the program will culminate in a practical field trip, allowing participants to apply their acquired skills in a real-world environment. During this trip, leaders will train in land navigation, the use of secret signs, mapmaking, estimating distances and directions, and deciphering coded messages—skills that foster self-reliance and teamwork, and complement the overall training objectives of the program.
