Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Cisco to set up a Cisco Networking Academy at the new King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Saudia is currently building an international IT park at King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh, northwest of Jeddah and the agreement with KAEC aims at making use of the huge facilities and opportunities provided by the giant economic city to establish a world-class IT center to support business activities.
The Cisco Networking Academy program teaches millions of students from every socioeconomic background the skills needed to design, build, manage, and secure computer networks, improving their career prospects while also filling the global demand for networking professionals.
This joint initiative between Saudia and Cisco will equip students who graduate from the program for vocational employment and will also help to quickly evolve the careers of young engineers within the Kingdom’s telecommunications and networking industry.
Khalid Abdullah Almolhem, director-general, of Saudia, said: “Saudi Arabia needs to continue strengthening its ability to create sustainable high-tech jobs, and Saudia is determined to do everything it can to support this process.”
Tarig Enaya, managing director, Cisco, Saudi Arabia, said: “We are honored and delighted to be collaborating with Saudia through this initiative. The next Internet experience will enable a profound level of collaboration that will change the way we think, the speed by which we invent, how we connect and share information.”
Key facts:
• In partnership with educational institutions, government administrations and community based organizations around the world, the Cisco Networking Academy delivers information and communications technology (ICT) education through effective in-classroom learning combined with innovative cloud-based curricula and tools to prepare students for careers in the 21st-century global economy.
• Various internationally recognized certification programs will be given to students who will be able to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size route and switched networks, including implementation and verification of connections to remote sites.
Saudia inks deal to set up Cisco Networking Academy
Saudia inks deal to set up Cisco Networking Academy
LuLu Walkathon: 22,000 participants champion greener future
Alkhobar’s New Corniche transformed into a vibrant hub of energy and community spirit when more than 22,000 people gathered for the highly anticipated “LuLu Walkathon.” Organized by LuLu Saudi Hypermarket, the 3-km event was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Alkhobar municipality on Jan. 31. The walkathon successfully united the community under the themes of health and environmental sustainability.
The event was held with the cooperation of Meshaal Al-Harbi, head of Alkhobar municipality, and Tareq Al-Qahtani, director of the Ministry of Sport’s Eastern Province branch. The official flag-off was performed by Mohammed Haris, director of LuLu Hypermarket Saudi Arabia.
This year’s walkathon went beyond fitness, offering a rich tapestry of entertainment including soulful traditional Arabic music, a contemporary violin performance, and a playful “donuts dance,” which ensured a festive atmosphere for families of all ages.
A major highlight of the morning was the presence of Khadra. Khadra served as a living reminder of the Kingdom’s deep-rooted cultural artistry, posing for photos with the thousands of participants who lined the coast. To ensure every attendee felt the spirit of the celebration, participants were geared up with a premium merchandise kit containing custom-branded T-shirts and caps. Furthermore, every individual who successfully completed the 3-km route was rewarded with an exclusive LuLu goodie bag at the finish line to celebrate their achievement.
Sustainability remained a core pillar for the LuLu Walkathon this year, reflecting the brand’s long-term environmental vision. LuLu’s staff managed the route with a strict focus on environmental responsibility, while strategically placed refreshment stalls kept walkers hydrated without compromising the pristine condition of the corniche.
The massive success of the event was supported by key partners, including MasterCard as the commercial sponsor and Nada, which provided vital refreshments, alongside significant support from Radio Mirchi and Alyaum newspaper.
“The walkathon concluded not just as a race, but as a meaningful tribute to the Kingdom’s past and a definitive step toward a sustainable future,” a statement said. “By blending physical activity with cultural celebration and environmental stewardship, LuLu Hypermarket reaffirmed its commitment to the Saudi community, promoting an active, engaged, and responsible lifestyle for all residents.”
