Science and technology city, telecom company support distance learning at universities in Saudi Arabia amid coronavirus

Since the Ministry of Education’s decision to close all educational institutions in the Kingdom from March 8, in light of the coronavirus outbreak, the majority of schools and universities have implemented e-learning programs. (Shutterstock)
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Updated 18 March 2020
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Science and technology city, telecom company support distance learning at universities in Saudi Arabia amid coronavirus

  • Twenty-eight universities in the Kingdom are currently connected to Maeen’s network

RIYADH: Since the Ministry of Education’s decision to close all educational institutions in the Kingdom from March 8, following advice from health authorities in light of the coronavirus outbreak, the majority of schools and universities have implemented e-learning programs to enable students to continue their education.

To that end, the Saudi Research and Innovation Network (Maeen) — a part of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) — has teamed up with the Integrated Telecom Company (ITC) to “increase the data quota between some of the Kingdom’s universities and KACST free of charge,” according to SPA. “The initiative aims to support university students and members, raise the quality of virtual classrooms and learning platforms, and improve access to national digital services.”

Twenty-eight universities in the Kingdom are currently connected to Maeen’s network, through which, according to SPA, it “achieves the requirements of scientific research, transferring data between its subscribers with speed and efficiency.” Maeen also provides several apps and other services to its users.


King Salman Arabic academy launches ‘Ahlan Wa Sahlan’ digital learning platform

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King Salman Arabic academy launches ‘Ahlan Wa Sahlan’ digital learning platform

RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language has launched the “Ahlan Wa Sahlan” educational platform, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The digital initiative aims to teach Arabic to both native and non-native speakers through a flexible, interactive learning experience, combining accredited academic content with modern technologies and supporting learners of different levels and goals.

Abdullah Al-Washmi, the academy’s secretary-general, said the platform marks a qualitative step in the digital development of Arabic language education and aligns with the academy’s mission to strengthen Arabic’s presence in modern learning environments.

He added that the project is part of a series of initiatives supported by Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan and reflects the leadership’s commitment to empowering Arabic locally and globally through trusted digital tools.

Al-Washmi said the platform offers advanced digital solutions for individuals and institutions, with programs designed to meet diverse learning needs and objectives.

It provides integrated language programs across five levels, from beginner to advanced, as well as specialized courses in professional fields such as administration, healthcare and sports.

Learners benefit from flexible self-learning options supported by standardized assessment tools and comprehensive tests, the SPA reported.

“Ahlan Wa Sahlan” features an interactive design with customized content for different learner groups, a multilingual interface supporting five languages and continuous technical support.

Educational institutions are also provided with advanced tools to manage content, organize learners and monitor performance through analytical reports, the SPA added.

The launch is part of the academy’s broader efforts to expand Arabic language education globally through innovative digital solutions, enhancing learning efficiency and strengthening Arabic’s presence in education, culture and digital communication.

The initiative also aligns with the Human Capability Development Program’s goals to build an advanced Arabic digital education ecosystem that combines academic quality with technological innovation.