In the presence of the Acting President of the University, Prof. Abdulwahed H. Al Mazrua, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Abdullah M. Almuhaideb, the activities of the Student Fellowship Program for Skills Excellence (Cohort 2025) concluded on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, during a recognition ceremony held to celebrate the achievements of 52 outstanding students representing 8 Saudi universities.

The ceremony included the honoring of students who successfully completed the program requirements, in addition to recognizing the contributions of trainers, mentors, and supporting partners. Awards of distinction were also presented to participants whose projects and student-led initiatives were selected as the most impactful.

The event featured a variety of presentations emphasizing the importance of skill development and showcasing the program’s role in equipping students with tools for personal and professional success. A side exhibition was also held, displaying posters of the participants’ final projects and interactive booths that provided a space for dialogue and knowledge exchange between students and attendees.

In his speech, the General Supervisor of the Program, Dr. Mohammed Saleh Alkathiri, stated that the program aligns with the goals and principles of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Program, particularly in areas related to the development of human capital and ensuring alignment between educational outcomes and labor market needs. He added: “The program offers participants added value by recognizing not only their academic excellence, but also their excellence in skills.”

The Student Fellowship Program for Skills Excellence is considered one of the most distinctive initiatives among Saudi universities. It was developed using modern scientific frameworks and implemented through both local and international partnerships. The program aims to strengthen a set of core competencies, most notably: leadership, self-awareness, critical thinking, teamwork, planning, and creative problem-solving. These skills are essential to preparing a generation of ambitious youth capable of meeting future challenges and making meaningful contributions—fully aligned with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030.

For more information and to register for upcoming Student Fellowship cohorts, please visit: https://sf.iau.edu.sa