Organized by the local Salihiya Charitable Society, the training course was financed by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA).

“The program aimed to train young Saudis to work in the area of wood decoration and encourage them to invest in the sector,” said Jasser Al-Harbash, executive director of SCTA in Qassim.

The trained Saudi craftsmen can decorate tourist spots and make shields and other mementos to be given away during official ceremonies and occasions.

“The training of a group of Saudis in the area of wood decoration will help them enter the market and develop it as a small-scale industry,” Al-Harbash said.

The training program is significant as there is good demand for quality wooden decoration pieces in the Saudi market.

Al-Harbash commended the Qassim governor who decided that government departments should give priority to Saudi craftsmen’s works when purchasing mementos.

“I am sure that those Saudis working in this field will be able to make good profits,” he said.

Al-Harbash said the engagement of young Saudis in wood decoration would enhance their talents and innovative capabilities.

“Craftwork is not the monopoly of old men and women as people usually think. There are many youths interested in this area and they can add their innovative ideas to make this profession more attractive and profitable,” he said.

Rasheed Al-Towyan, director of joint services at Salihiya, said the young Saudis were given training in wood decoration considering the demand for such professionals in the market.

“We’ll conduct more such training programs in various professions required by the market,” he said.

The participants were also equally happy and excited. Mansour Al-Haqas said he has already started making some decorated wooden doors and other attractive pieces. “I was interested in this work even before joining the course and the training gave me new ideas to do the work in a professional manner. I am now thinking of opening a shop selling my products,” he said.