Saudi Sports Figures Urge School-University Links

Oct 24, 2026•2 min read

Saudi sports figures gathered at a forum in Jeddah have called for stronger cooperation among families, schools, universities, communities, and the sports sector to identify and develop young athletes. The event, hosted by the University of Business and Technology, drew more than 350 participants, including sports and youth specialists, academics, athletes, and media professionals.

Former Saudi Football Federation president Ahmed Eid urged closer coordination between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Sport, alongside greater use of schools and universities as platforms for talent discovery. Speakers agreed that a connected pathway — from classroom to club — gives promising players a better chance to be spotted and supported early.

Partnerships on campus

During the forum, the Saudi Sports for All Federation signed an agreement with King Abdulaziz University to expand physical activity on campus through sporting events, participation programmes, and student activities. Al-Qadsiah Club reported partnerships with schools, universities, and government bodies supporting its sports academies, which operate across six locations and serve more than 2,000 players.

The discussions also highlighted the Kingdom's wider sports-school framework, which includes cooperation between the Ministry of Sport and Mahd Sports Academy, with the first sports school already established under the programme. At the university level, the Saudi Universities Sports Federation organizes activities and events, supports cooperation with national federations, and represents Saudi universities in domestic and international competitions.

For families and students in Riyadh, Jeddah, and beyond, these efforts matter because they aim to make sport a routine part of education rather than an extracurricular afterthought. Clearer links between schools, universities, and clubs can help talented young athletes progress while encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles across the community.

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