the foundational Wood Badge course concluded in Riyadh, the capital , under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sama bint Faisal Al Saud, Chair of the Girl Scouts Committee of the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association. The program, hosted by the Digital Technical College for Girls, qualified 40 female scout leaders from across the Kingdom, equipping them with the highest levels of leadership and administrative skills to manage scout units efficiently and effectively.
Historical background and importance of the wooden badge
The Wood Badge is the highest leadership qualification in the Scouting movement worldwide. Its history dates back to 1919, when it was introduced by the founder of Scouting, Lord Robert Baden-Powell, to provide advanced and practical training for Scout unit leaders. The badge derives its symbolism from wooden beads taken from a historical necklace that belonged to a Zulu chief, giving it a deep historical and cultural significance. Earning this badge is not just about mastering technical skills, but also about a personal commitment to applying Scouting principles and values in service to and development of young people and the community.
Intensive training program to enhance leadership skills
For five consecutive days, from the 6th to the 10th of Sha'ban 1445 AH, participants engaged in an intensive and carefully designed training program. The program focused on equipping the trainees with the latest educational methods and leadership skills, and covered various topics such as strategic planning, team management, problem-solving, effective communication skills, and the design of engaging scouting programs that meet the needs of girls and brownies. This training aims to cultivate a new generation of qualified female leaders capable of making a positive and lasting impact on society, in line with the noble goals of the scouting movement.
Supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and empowering women
This important event aligns directly with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , which prioritizes empowering Saudi women and increasing their contribution to national development. Developing female leaders in vital fields such as scouting contributes to building a new generation of empowered young women and strengthens women's role as active partners in community development. In her address to the participants, Princess Sama bint Faisal emphasized the importance of translating theoretical knowledge into continuous practical application through fieldwork in scouting units, affirming that this is the true path to self-development and honing leadership skills to serve the nation.
Expected impact at the local and international levels
The graduation of this group of female leaders is expected to have a tangible positive impact on the women's scouting movement in Saudi Arabia. These leaders will become beacons of inspiration in their communities and will work to broaden scouting participation among girls, contributing to the development of their life and personal skills. Internationally, this achievement reflects the significant progress the Kingdom is making in women's empowerment and highlights the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association's to implementing the highest global standards in its training programs, thus strengthening its position as an active member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement.
