PRINCE Matab Bin Thenayan Bin Muhammad Al Saud has joined hands with Knowledge Core Education System, Canada to formally support an initiative to set up schools, colleges and a university in line with International standards. This initiative has been launched to resolve the education problems of expatriates living in Saudi Arabia. A formal agreement was signed between Prince Matab and Shahzad Alam, Chairman Knowledge Core, to design the overall framework. In a formal ceremony, Prince Matab emphasized the importance of education for all. He referred to the Holy Prophet (PBUH) saying "The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim." He said promoting education in Muslim word is the need of the time. He added that we wanted some groups who should set up educational institution providing the best possible education on least possible price. He insisted that we would never allow compromising the quality of education. He was happy in saying that this initiative will contribute in the economic prosperity of Saudi Arabia and will also open job opportunities for Saudi nationals and expats. Alam explained that it was the support of Saudi government and the community that we were able to invest in the education sector in the Kingdom. He mentioned that there are 9.2 million expatriate workers in the Kingdom, with around 42 percent employed in both the public and private sectors, according to a new study. Large number of expatriates belongs to India, Pakistan, Philippines, Egypt and Jordan. These expatriates have problems in educating their children into some accredited educational institutions. He added that about 80 percent of expatriate workers have average salary of SR3,000 per month. These expatriates need fine quality education on an affordable prices. He said we are keen in setting up education system for entry level to postgraduate level for the expats and Saudis on an affordable price. Dr. Nadeem Bhatti said "currently we have capacity to offer degrees in Information Technology, Geomatic Sciences and Business Management. Knowledge Core Education System has a formal collaborative relationship with NKRL Canada, i.e. an international research and development organization, who will complement the University with its research activities, and promote research-based learning by involving students in various research projects." NKRL is currently working in the fields of renewable energy, computational sciences, materials sciences, geomatic sciences, electronics and robotics in order to work toward achieving research publication, technological advancement and commercialization. Ambassador Manzoor ul Haq thanked Prince Matab and Knowledge Core for extending his kind support for expatriates, particularly for the Pakistani community. Appreciating Knowledge Core, he hoped that this initiative will resolve many educational problems of Pakistani community. He explained that we have a lot of pressure for admissions in Pakistan International Schools. We encourage all groups to come and help us overcoming educational issues of Pakistani community. Ul Haq suggested that curriculum for schools, colleges and university should be designed keeping international standards and Islamic principles in mind. He insisted that modern techniques and technology should be adapted by Knowledge Core to set up group of exemplary institutions. He mentioned that during his previous interactions with Knowledge Core, he knew that they have a team of highly educated teachers and professionals who can plan and manage the whole educational program. He appreciated Knowledge Core for promoting quality education in remote and distant areas of Pakistan through its eLearning program "EDUCAST" via its offshoot EPEX Lab. Ul Haq extended his full support for the promotion of education in Saudi Arabia and particularly for expatriate community. He further said Pakistan Embassy will extend full support in finding some academic collaboration and linkage with leading Pakistani institutions and universities. Leading members of the community, educationists, members of Pakistan Investors Forum, and parents participated in the ceremony.
