Second Advanced Wood Badge Scouting Course for Rover Leaders Concludes at King Khalid University - King Khalid University

King Khalid University concluded the activities of the second advanced Wood Badge scouting course, organized by the Deanship of Student Affairs in partnership with Alwaleed Philanthropies and the Saudi Arabian Scout Association. The course, held in Abha from May 18 to 22, 2025, saw the participation of 26 Rover scouts from various women's scouting sectors. Seven qualified female leaders led the course, delivering advanced training content as part of programs aimed at enhancing the leadership and scouting skills of young women.

Eng. Najla Aljaeed, Deputy Secretary-General of Alwaleed Philanthropies, emphasized that these strategic partnerships reflect the foundation's commitment to investing in the development of young women's capabilities and empowering them through advanced training opportunities. These initiatives contribute to building an active and influential generation of leaders. She added that launching the second edition of the scouting qualification program for future leaders extends this commitment, aiming to enhance young women's skills and foster a spirit of initiative, social responsibility, and national belonging. This aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals of empowering youth to lead positive and sustainable societal change.

Aljaeed noted that supporting this initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to develop national competencies through training and empowerment pathways, and to enhance women's participation in leadership and volunteer work. This contributes to achieving social balance and supporting sustainable development strategies.

Dr. Areej bint Ayedh Al Bahair, Vice-Dean of Student Affairs for Female Students at King Khalid University, explained that the conclusion of this course represents a significant milestone in the university's female scouting journey. It successfully qualified a distinguished group of Rover leaders, reflecting the success of the strategic partnership with Alwaleed Philanthropies and the Scout Association.

Al Bahair added that the course included a range of theoretical knowledge and practical applications. These encompassed leadership and management skills, methods for training young people, the World Scouting Policy on Safeguarding, scouting planning, navigation and outdoor trip skills, and other areas that contribute to building a capable scout leader who can influence and actively serve the community.

The course concluded with practical field training on planning and executing outdoor trips, which included practicing various outdoor skills and knowledge related to land navigation and other important practical aspects of scouting work.

It's worth noting that this course is a continuation of ongoing efforts to enhance the role of women in the scouting movement and provide a comprehensive training environment that contributes to preparing leaders capable of making a positive and sustainable impact on society.