Saudi Sports Figures Urge Schools-Universities Links

Saudi sports figures have called for stronger cooperation among families, schools, universities and sports organizations to better identify and develop young athletic talent. The proposals were discussed at a sports-development forum held in Jeddah that drew more than 350 participants.

The forum, organized by the University of Business and Technology together with the Saudi Universities Sports Federation, brought together officials, former athletes and academics to examine how the education and sports sectors can work more closely. Speakers highlighted the role of families, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Sport in building a stronger pipeline for young talent.

Ahmed Eid urged earlier talent identification through schools and universities, saying promising athletes should be spotted at a younger age. Hussein Abdulghani called for specialized sports programs and qualified academies to help develop young athletes over the long term.

Participants also recommended expanding university sports activities, strengthening sports-management programs, improving access to sports-medicine services, and widening participation so students of all abilities can take part.

For the community, closer ties between classrooms and sports organizations could mean more structured opportunities for children and students to train, compete and pursue athletic careers. The discussions reflect a broader push to grow grassroots sport and encourage healthier, more active lifestyles across the Kingdom.

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