The 15-day campaign is also aimed at instilling a sense of patriotism in the hearts of young people, spread an atmosphere of joviality in society, improve the abilities of students and foster positive dialogue between youngsters and their parents.

A number of government and private organizations are participating in the campaign, during which material assistance will be given to poor and needy families in the city.

Prince Mishaal asked all government departments to work together with the private sector to ensure the success of the campaign, which is being carried out under the slogan "Aspirations" and is open to men and women of all ages.

Director of the campaign Ahmad bin Obaid Al-Ghamdi told Arab News that the idea for the project came after an assessment of the needs of society in general and youth in particular, who he said should be enlightened about the perils facing them, including extremism, family violence, rising rates of divorce, drugs and other evils.

He said during the campaign, assistance would be given to the poor and needy, including widows, divorcees, orphans and the disabled.

He added that a number of religious, cultural and health lectures and seminars would be organized during the campaign.

Al-Ghamdi said competitions, with prizes, would be held in addition to theatrical shows and sport events. "We want the youth to fill their leisure time with useful activities and to compete honestly in various contests," he said.

Al-Ghamdi added that the departments of social affairs, education, health and agriculture will participate in the campaign in addition to police, youth welfare, Ministry of Islamic Affairs, welfare societies and a number of other government and private establishments.

He said campaign activities would be held mainly in market places and at King Fahd Coastal City, with more than 5,000 people expected to attend.

Al-Ghamdi said the campaign would also be held in schools and hoped that it would end many bad habits such as smoking, drinking and others.

He said the impact of the campaign would be measured through a survey and added that the opinions of the people would also be gauged online.

"There is also a special mobile number where people can send text messages expressing their views," he added.