DAMMAM: Government agencies and experts are developing an integrated plan to encourage marriage, reduce spinsterhood and reduce the divorce rate. A committee of representatives from the ministries of Justice, Social Affairs and Interior and a group of psychologists, sociologists and educators are designing a scientific guide and establishing a code of ethics for those who help youths get married. There are about 1.5 million unmarried girls in Saudi Arabia, according to statistics. Dr. Muhammad Al-Abdul Gadier, secretary general and executive director of the Weam (Alliance) Society, said the project's major goal is to upgrade the standard of Saudi male and female matchmakers and give them the status of a recognized, independent entity, which will reduce the divorce rate and encourage marriage. The project will give matchmakers intensive training and enroll them in specialized courses in marriage that qualify them for diplomas in their areas of specialty, he said. Recognition to be bestowed on the matchmakers is in conformity with the principles of the Holy Qur'an and Prophet's Traditions, he added. In a related development, the first forum for matchmakers held in the Eastern Province adopted a number of recommendations including the creation of an official institution for marriage meddling and reconciliation between couples, to be supervised by the Ministry of Social Affairs in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice and Judiciary. The forum's recommendations also encourage families to look for good wives without resorting to matchmakers. The forum also stressed the importance of giving more care to those with special needs, in addition to helping them get married and have families.
