Saudi Leaders Push Closer Integration of Schools, Universities, and Sports Organizations

In Jeddah, participants noted that universities can significantly contribute to youth athlete development and broaden sports participation, highlighting a University of Business and Technology forum attended by over 350 attendees on Wednesday.

Organized in partnership with the Saudi Universities Sports Federation, the gathering united sports experts, educators, athletes, and media professionals to explore talent identification, sports governance, media outreach, and student wellbeing.

The Student Affairs Department spearheaded the forum as part of Sports Day, which celebrated the International Day of University Sport under the theme “Towards More Distinguished and Sustainable University Sports.”

University President Weam Tunsi emphasized that the event underscored the institution’s dedication to elevating university athletics and forging collaborations with sport and media entities.

Key topics included strategies for educational institutions to pinpoint emerging talent and foster its growth.

Ahmed Eid, former president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (2012‑2016), advocated starting talent development early through coordinated efforts among families, schools, universities, and the broader community.

He argued that sport extends beyond victories or defeats, serving as a means to cultivate character, values, and teamwork.

Former Al‑Ahli and Al‑Nassr defender Hussain Abdulghani stressed the value of early talent identification based on his competitive background.

Abdulghani called for tighter coordination between education and sports ministries and for enhanced utilization of schools and universities in discovering and nurturing youth athletes.

Former national team midfielder Osama Hawsawi emphasized that preparations must address technical, physical, and mental dimensions, delivering an environment conducive to lasting development and career progression.

Al‑Tayyar added that beyond elite performance, universities ought to engage students of diverse capabilities, promoting inclusive athletic participation.

Integrating physical activity into daily life demands collaboration across families, schools, higher education institutions, and society at large.

He also highlighted joint initiatives with the Ministry of Education to boost sports awareness and involvement in Saudi school systems.

Ensuring robust health protection for athletes remains integral to fostering active lifestyles.

Physiotherapist Ibrahim Jan emphasized the critical roles of recovery, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep—key components for preserving fitness and peak performance. He called for stronger university sports medicine programs to prevent injuries, support student‑athlete well‑being, and sustain ongoing participation.

He further warned against unguided supplementation, stressing the need for proper medical evaluation before using dietary aids.

The dialogue also turned to sports media amid a rapidly evolving industry. Sports critic Abdullah Fallatah highlighted the sector’s escalating economic stature and strategic investment in Saudi Arabia, citing the Saudi Pro League’s expansion and heightened global visibility.

He urged sports media to stay abreast of technological advances, provide high‑quality coverage, and showcase the country’s distinctive culture and history.

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