All most people want for their children is for them to be happy and fulfilled, with careers that match their interests and aspirations. But what if their talents mean they have the potential to make the world a better place for everyone? I'm more confident than ever that we have the building blocks in place to allow our young to help shape the future of Saudi Arabia positively. There could have been no greater illustration of this than the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). It took place in Atlanta in the United States of America recently, with our students taking a record 22 prizes, which included 16 grand awards and six special awards. We should take great pride in this success on a global stage. It is evidence that our education vision and the way we are nurturing the talents of our young compares to the best in the world. But as nice as the recognition is, it marks a small step in what is a long journey. These awards were in disciplines ranging from energy to chemistry, engineering, medicine and the social sciences. They will give our young minds encouragement to keep learning and innovating, as will the location of the fair in Atlanta, Georgia. The many globally recognized brands based there include drinks giant Coca Cola and television news outlet CNN. Atlanta has had its own considerable impact on the world, crafted through the talents of local people, and is a vibrant, prosperous place. This in itself can provide great inspiration of what our young people can achieve in their own hometowns. Most of all, though, these youngsters will now be the role models for all Saudi students — with their success something for them all to aspire to. Being part of such a prestigious global event can now become a realistic ambition for all in our country. Great thanks must go to the government, as well as Minister of Education Dr. Hamad Al-Sheikh, who said all students who succeeded in Atlanta would be granted scholarships in appreciation. Mawhiba (King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity) is also an exciting initiative with a big role to play in our future. Its aim is to identify and nurture talented and gifted students in scientific fields, which will surely mean they are able to reach their potential. The countries that invest in the minds of young people with a focus on invention usually have strong, dynamic economies. This is obviously recognized by our leaders and it is great we are instilling the confidence and belief in our students that will allow them to achieve big things. For example, a Saudi student was named the best research scientist in the world in Atlanta. No matter where you are from, everyone wants to give their children the best opportunities in life. This is now happening in Saudi Arabia, and it is exciting to think about what our future generations can achieve for themselves, our country and economy. Just like they saw in Atlanta, our students can now dream of one day having their own globally recognized brand, building or innovation based here in one of our cities. — Dr. Ghadeer Talal Melibari, holder of PhD in English from University of Hertfordshire, UK, is currently working as Assistant Professor of English teaching at Umm Al
