Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU), represented by the Public Relations and Corporate Identity Department, held the second edition of the “Sattam Cultural Forum” on Monday under the theme “The Nation in the Memory of Poetry and Literature.” The event took place at the University’s main campus in Al-Kharj as part of Saudi Arabia’s National Day celebrations under the theme “Our Pride Is in Our Nature.”
Moderated by Mr. Saleh Al-Qarni, Director of the Department, the forum featured Dr. Khalaf Al-Thubaiti, Associate Professor of Literature and Criticism in the Department of Arabic Language and Literature. The event was attended by a group of writers, media professionals, University leaders, faculty, and staff.
Dr. Al-Thubaiti opened his remarks by noting that patriotic poetry is an integral part of the Arab cultural consciousness and a rich record of its heritage and collective memory. He highlighted the distinction between poetry written for a particular occasion and patriotic poetry rooted in deep and enduring sentiment, emphasizing that works inspired by genuine emotion are those that remain embedded in collective memory.
He further explained that poetry has a distinctive capacity, compared with other art forms, to document the major national transformations the Kingdom has experienced throughout its history. He noted that the artistic development of patriotic poetry has enabled it to move beyond traditional conventions and embrace greater freedom of expression while retaining its commitment to poetic meter and meaningful content that reflects national unity and belonging.
Dr. Al-Thubaiti also emphasized the role of poetry, both historically and in the modern era, in reinforcing fundamental national values, foremost among them unity, security, sacrifice, and belonging. He called for addressing contemporary linguistic challenges, including the inconsistent use of borrowed terminology, and for coordinated efforts to safeguard linguistic and intangible cultural heritage. He also commended the role of heritage preservation associations in this regard.
He added that universities serve as key intellectual and academic environments for safeguarding national identity and oral heritage. He underscored the important role of faculty members in encouraging students to take pride in intangible cultural heritage and strengthening their appreciation of the Arabic language.
On the sidelines of the forum, University staff member Mr. Majed Al-Otaibi was honored following the selection of his novel, Khan Jalilah, for the longlist of the 2026 Professional Literature Association Award.
The forum concluded with an open discussion and Q&A session, during which Dr. Al-Thubaiti shared insights from his extensive experience in literature, poetry, and historical documentation.
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