Abuja: Prof. Saad Bin Dajem, Vice President for Education and Academic Affairs at King Khalid University, has reported that 3,200 Nigerians have graduated from Saudi Arabian universities over the past decade. He made this statement at the opening of the Forum of Saudi Universities Alumni in Nigeria and neighboring countries, which aims to promote sustainable development.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Forum is organized under the auspices of the Saudi Ministry of Education and hosted by King Khalid University in collaboration with the University of Tabuk and Najran University. Prof. Saad Bin Dajem highlighted that over 850 Nigerian students are currently studying in Saudi universities, indicating a growing educational partnership between the two nations.
Prof. Dajem praised Nigerian students for their dedication and commitment to academics. He emphasized Saudi Arabia's willingness to admit more Nigerian students across various disciplines, including medicine, engineering, science, education, and religious studies. He mentioned plans to increase admissions, recognizing Nigeria's significant population and regional importance in Africa.
He noted that Saudi Arabian universities accept both Muslim and non-Muslim students, offering them opportunities to pursue their academic aspirations. Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, acknowledged the initiative's importance for Nigeria's development, emphasizing the critical role of education in progress.
Dr. Muhammad Munir, Secretary of the Alumni and a graduate of the Islamic University of Medina, shared his contributions towards peaceful coexistence between Nigeria's major religious groups. He encouraged Nigerians from all backgrounds to pursue transformative education for national growth.
Mr. Saad Bin Fahd Al-Marri, Charge d'Affaires of the Saudi Embassy in Nigeria, emphasized the deepening Saudi-Nigerian collaboration. He noted that Saudi Arabia's educational advancements reflect its leadership's commitment to a world-class system aligned with global innovations.
The three-day forum features six scholarly sessions with 21 speakers in education and research, attracting over 400 participants from alumni of Saudi universities in Nigeria and neighboring countries. The event underscores the role of educational diplomacy and the influence of Saudi alumni in shaping Africa's future.