The college building, where more than 2,000 students, faculty members and administrative officials were present when the blaze started, was evacuated with the help of the Civil Defense.

Most of the students were injured in a stampede that ensued during the evacuation process at the college gates.

The fire started in a side room attached to a classroom on the third floor. Its cause is not known.

Asir Gov. Prince Faisal bin Khaled has ordered an official inquiry.

An investigation committee with members from the Civil Defense, police, King Khaled University and the governor's office has been set up.

According to a statement from the Asir health directorate, seven of the injured were admitted to Asir Central hospital, five students and a Civil Defense official at Abha General Hospital, nine at a private hospital and seven at a primary health center.