His Excellency the President of Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Professor Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Tamimi, inaugurated on Monday the “University Guidance Compass” Forum, organized by the University—represented by the Deanship of Student Affairs—under the theme “Envisioning the Future of Guidance in Light of Saudi Vision 2030.” The forum aims to strengthen the role of guidance centers in fostering a safe academic environment. It was held at the main theater in Building No. (6) at the University City in Al-Kharj, with the attendance of the University Vice Presidents and a number of academics, experts, and specialists in guidance and counseling from various Saudi universities.
In his address during the opening ceremony, the University President emphasized that the forum serves as a pivotal starting point for shaping a comprehensive roadmap for the university guidance system, noting that guidance is a fundamental pillar that helps students gain a deeper understanding of themselves. He explained that the forum seeks to harness the potential of the younger generation and empower them to contribute effectively to nation-building and shaping the future, while also enhancing students’ academic and psychological well-being.
His Excellency also inaugurated the accompanying exhibition, which provided visitors with an opportunity to explore the latest guidance technologies used across Saudi universities, as well as successful practices in the field. The exhibition included specialized consultations with the participation of local universities, the National Center for Mental Health Promotion, Eradah and Mental Health Complex, King Khalid Hospital, and the University’s Guidance and Counseling Unit.
The forum featured three main panel sessions. The first addressed the importance of guidance in national development; the second discussed the role of international accreditation (IACS) and the integration of artificial intelligence in psychological counseling; while the third highlighted successful experiences and future perspectives from King Saud University and Najran University, including the “Peer Counseling” initiative.
On the sidelines of the forum, a series of specialized workshops were held to equip faculty members and guidance practitioners with the latest techniques, approaches, and best practices. These workshops covered topics such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), professional empowerment for social counselors, and self-guidance. The forum concluded with a set of recommendations that emphasized building strategic partnerships to reinforce integration between the academic and psychological dimensions of student support.
The forum comes as part of the University’s ongoing efforts to develop the guidance system and exchange best practices in order to foster a safe academic environment. It seeks to create an interactive platform that brings together experts and thought leaders to share innovative solutions that enhance the student experience, while also building strategic partnerships that promote the integration of academic and psychological development in alignment with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
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