In a strategic move aimed at strengthening integration between the academic and cultural sectors, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, represented by the Deanship of Student Affairs, signed a cooperation agreement with the Theater and Performing Arts Association. This partnership aims to refine and develop students' skills in theater and performing arts, and to prepare them to contribute effectively to the growing cultural movement in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Background of the partnership in the context of cultural transformation
This agreement comes at a time when the Saudi cultural sector is witnessing a comprehensive renaissance, driven by the goals of Vision 2030 and the Quality of Life Program. The Vision has placed great emphasis on developing the arts and culture sectors as key pillars of economic and social development. Specialized cultural bodies, including the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, have been established to support and regulate this vital sector. Civil society organizations, such as the Theater and Performing Arts Association, play a pivotal role in implementing initiatives and providing platforms for young talent, making this collaboration with a prestigious academic institution like Princess Nourah University, the largest women's university in the world, a natural and fruitful step.
Objectives and details of the agreement
The agreement was signed at the university's central library, with Dr. Laila Al-Mutairi, Vice Dean of Student Affairs for Student Life, representing the university, and Mr. Khalid Al-Baz, the Executive Director of the association, representing the association. The agreement includes provisions for activating vital areas of cooperation, such as providing specialized training opportunities for female students under the guidance of experts and professionals in the field of theater, as well as implementing joint initiatives and projects that contribute to the development of theatrical activity. The association will also provide the necessary support for the production of theatrical performances and artistic activities launched by university students, giving them a unique opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world work environment.
Importance and expected impact
This partnership is of paramount importance on several levels. Locally, it contributes to empowering Saudi women and expanding their career options in a promising creative sector, providing the arts scene with qualified female talent across various theatrical disciplines, from acting and directing to scriptwriting and design. It also bridges the gap between theoretical education and practical application, thereby enhancing the quality of educational outcomes and aligning them with labor market demands. Nationally, this initiative directly supports the Kingdom's cultural sector development goals, enriches local content, and strengthens the position of theater as a tool for cultural expression and social dialogue. The outcomes of this collaboration are expected to contribute to the production of innovative theatrical works that will participate in local and regional festivals, reflecting the Kingdom's new cultural and civilizational identity.
