Jeddah Forum Urges Closer School-University Sports Ties

More than 350 sports, youth, academic and media specialists gathered in Jeddah on 15 October 2026 for a forum calling for stronger links between schools, universities and sports organisations. The event was held at the University of Business and Technology in partnership with the Saudi Universities Sports Federation.

Convened under the theme “Towards More Distinguished and Sustainable University Sports,” the forum brought together voices from across the education and sports sectors to examine how the Kingdom can better nurture young athletes and build lasting sporting pathways.

Discussions spanned several key areas, including talent discovery, sports management, media coverage, student health and sports medicine. Participants explored how universities can act as a bridge between school-level programmes and professional sport, ensuring promising athletes are identified and supported early.

A call for closer cooperation

Speakers emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among families, schools, universities, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Sport. They argued that a connected system — rather than isolated efforts — is essential for developing well-rounded student athletes and sustaining sports programmes over the long term.

For students and families in Jeddah, Riyadh and beyond, the forum reflects a growing focus on giving young people more structured opportunities to pursue sport alongside their studies. While no binding policy or implementation deadline was announced, the gathering signals continued momentum toward stronger coordination across the education and sports communities.

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