BAHA, 12 August — A science college will be opened in this southwestern city at the beginning of next academic year. This was disclosed by Baha Governor Prince Muhammad ibn Saud.
Speaking to Arab News, Prince Muhammad said the Baha International College of Sciences would charge a nominal fee from students.
“We intend to have a science college of the highest standard by establishing close cooperation with reputable international universities,” the governor said, adding that graduates of the college will be able to meet a substantial portion of the local job market needs.
The new college will offer courses in computer science, medicine and applied sciences in the initial stage. There is a plan to increase the number of courses in the future.
Referring to the Baha Investment Company, Prince Muhammad said the company has already implemented a number of productive projects. He disclosed the company’s intention to carry out lucrative projects in the interests of shareholders.
The governor highlighted the investment prospects in the Kingdom’s tourism and service sectors. A study prepared by the Saudi Consulting House showed that there are more than 180 investment opportunities in the Baha region. “About 90 percent of these projects are risk-free,” he pointed out.
He said the water shortage in the region could be solved by supplying desalinated water. “Other solutions will be costlier,” he added.
Technical schools start admissions
JEDDAH, 12 August — Technical institutes in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Madinah, Buraidah, Hail, Jizan, Najran, Tabuk and Jouf yesterday started accepting applications for admissions. Secondary school graduates who have scored not less than 73 percent marks are eligible to apply.
Dr. Saeed ibn Turki Al-Mella, supervisor of technical colleges and president of the Science Council, told Arab News that the admission procedures would take two weeks to complete. “We will try to accommodate as many students as possible,” he added.
There are now 17 technical institutes in the Kingdom. They include four new colleges opened in Najran, Jizan, Tabuk and Jouf this year. Established by the General Organization for Technical Education and Vocational Training, these institutes offer courses in electronics, mechanical and electrical engineering, computer technology, automobile engineering, administration and marketing. (AN)
