Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Education, Mr. Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Bunyan, the “Student Arts Festival,” organized by the Ministry, commenced today at its headquarters in Riyadh. This prominent cultural event coincides with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s celebrations of its National Day and features wide participation from male and female students across all educational levels throughout the Kingdom, who presented creative artworks that embody the richness and historical depth of the national identity.
His Excellency Minister Al-Bunyan toured the various sections of the festival, closely observing the outstanding contributions of the students. The exhibits ranged from visual arts to handicrafts and heritage pieces deeply connected to the roots of the Saudi state. His Excellency listened attentively to detailed explanations from the participating students about their work, which drew inspiration and values from the nation's glorious history. Several ministry leaders and staff members were also present.
Deeply rooted in history: Celebrating Founding Day
Founding Day, celebrated annually on February 22nd, commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. This national occasion, officially recognized by royal decree in 2022, is not merely a public holiday; it is an opportunity to deepen awareness of the Kingdom's three-century history, characterized by unity, stability, and progress. The festival aims to connect new generations with this rich heritage, transforming historical narratives into artistic displays and visual stories that recount the journey of building and unifying the nation.
The importance of the event and its national impact
The festival aims to strengthen national identity among young people and connect students to the historical depth of their country by depicting the stages of the founding of the Saudi state in artistic and interactive formats. Involving students in such events not only develops their artistic talents but also contributes to reviving cultural heritage and instilling pride in authentic Saudi identity in the hearts of rising generations. The festival featured diverse artistic and cultural sections that recreated the historical environment of the founding era, including a section dedicated to Diriyah, pavilions showcasing horses and falcons, sections on traditional clothing and crafts, and live student performances that highlighted aspects of traditional social life. This made the festival a comprehensive educational and historical platform that highlights the connection between the nation's youth and their glorious history, as well as their aspirations for a promising future under the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places culture and heritage at the heart of its priorities.
