Young Saudis have criticized a number of ministries for what they perceive to be failures on their part in the nation's education, healthcare and media attention to children. Speaking at the Third Arab Symposium for Child Protection held in Riyadh on Tuesday, the ministries of Education, Social Affairs, Information and Health came in for particular criticism and were provided with a barrage of constructive suggestions. Salwa Humaid, a student, asked the Ministry of Education to take a more effective role in the educational process in general, and by changing the curriculum and putting a stop to “the policy of indoctrination.” Salwa also said teachers needed to be given training courses in how to handle students. Deem Asiri, also a student, directed criticism at the Social Affairs Ministry, saying there was a lack of training for people working with abused children and issues surrounding child-abuse, such as dealing with families and areas of confidentiality. Deem said this could also be extended to children living as beggars and the issue of child labor. Mohammad Al-Fozan said he would like to see the Health Ministry provide free care and medicine for abused children, increase hospital intake to leave no one uncared for, and improve the quality of their medical care. “The Child Protection System will be introduced to the Shoura Council soon, and preparations have been made for the National Strategy for Childhood,” said Prince Faisal Bin Abdullah Bin Mohammad, Minister of Education. “The ministry is also responsible for the Childhood Committee. But we first have to look at ourselves critically and play a greater role towards achievement.” Abdul Aziz Al-Khoja, Minister of Information and Culture, admitted that the ministry's children's television programs are no longer adequate, and that Saudi Television does not provide what Saudi children deserve. “There are good programs, but we are trying with experts and educated people to find new media to raise awareness and protect Saudi children through Saudi Television and Radio,” Al-Khoja said. Yousef Al-Othaimen, Minister of Social Affairs, said that domestic violence is not as some portray it. “It is over the top to describe domestic violence as an epidemic attacking society,” Al-Othaimen said. “We are working to fight the problem.” Mansour Al-Hawasi, Deputy Health Minister, said medical services were available to all equally. “We give abused people free care whether they are Saudis or foreigners,” Al
