In a strategic move aimed at reviving national heritage and strengthening cultural identity among younger generations, the Saudi Ministry of Culture announced the launch of the “Handicrafts Activities Guide,” an ambitious program designed to integrate 11 authentic traditional crafts into curricula and activities across all educational levels. This initiative coincides with preparations for the “Year of Handicrafts 2025” and represents a qualitative leap in teaching methods, transforming heritage from a purely theoretical subject into an interactive, hands-on experience that inspires students and hones their creative skills.
General context and Vision 2030
This initiative falls within the broader framework of Saudi Vision 2030, which places paramount importance on preserving and celebrating the Kingdom's cultural and historical heritage. Handicrafts were not merely hobbies in the past; they formed the backbone of economic and social life in the Arabian Peninsula for decades before the discovery of oil. These crafts provided livelihoods for families and formed the basis of trade, reflecting the wisdom of our ancestors in adapting to their environment and utilizing its available resources. With the accelerating pace of modern life, these crafts are now threatened with extinction, necessitating organized institutional action to ensure their transmission to future generations.
Guide details and strategic objectives
The “Handicraft Activities Guide” is designed as a comprehensive resource for educational institutions, covering eleven craft tracks that reflect the cultural and geographical diversity of the Kingdom. These crafts include time-honored arts such as tanning, traditional mud and stone construction, pottery, and metalwork, as well as palm-based crafts and carpentry. The guide also pays special attention to the fine arts in which Saudi women have historically excelled, such as embroidery and weaving (Sadu), jewelry making, and bookbinding and gilding, which were closely linked to the intellectual and cultural movement.
This educational project is based on five clear strategic objectives:
- Introducing students to craft diversity: Highlighting the unique characteristics of handicrafts in each region of the Kingdom.
- Strengthening national identity: Connecting students to their cultural roots and enhancing their sense of belonging.
- Reviving traditional practices: Making crafts a living part of the school environment and school day.
- Skills development: Refining students' fine motor skills and creative abilities.
- Stimulating innovation: Encouraging students to develop these crafts using modern methods that ensure their sustainability.
Importance and expected impact
The impact of this initiative extends far beyond school walls, reaching the entire community. Locally, it is expected to contribute to the creation of a new generation of skilled artisans, opening new economic opportunities in the creative industries and cultural tourism sectors. Regionally and internationally, this step reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading cultural center, presenting the world with a vivid image of the depth and authenticity of its heritage. These efforts align with global trends, particularly UNESCO's goals for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, and underscore that preserving one's authentic identity is not incompatible with development and progress, but rather a solid foundation for moving forward into the future.
