He said that any project for the welfare of the citizens, especially for the benefit of young people in science, would find support and encouragement from the government.
Prince Salman made his observation during his meeting with Prince Sultan bin Salman, chairman of the board of the Prince Salman Science Oasis (PSSO) and members of the organization’s board of directors.
The defense minister was briefed by Prince Sultan on the activities and programs of the board with special reference to PSSO’s programs that serve the community in the edutainment sector. It is a project supported by King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and the Riyadh Charitable Foundation for Science in addition to a number of key Saudi companies contributing to the project.
The High Commission for Riyadh Development (HCRD) is supervising implementation of the project.
PSSO is a nonprofit organization charged with developing an interactive science center. Through the science center and associated activities PSSO aims to improve public awareness of science, and to promote scientific knowledge and its practical application for peace and the benefit of mankind as a whole. Its hope is to inspire people with the purpose of advancing scientific knowledge and technology in ways that respect cultural diversity and freedoms.
PSSO is affiliated with the Riyadh Philanthropic Society For Science, a nonprofit organization headed by Prince Salman. PSSO has already accomplished several key stages of development. An executive council for PSSO was established to supervise and guide the development of this project and provide the necessary support on both private and government levels.
Prince Salman expressed his willingness to head such projects on an honorary basis. Prince Salman also expressed thanks to the board of directors and those who have contributed in creating the Oasis.
He said such projects deserve support and care for the country. He encouraged people to participate in such initiatives and showcase their benefits for the welfare of the people. Prince Salman said such projects should contribute in promoting a scientific culture.
The meeting was attended by Prince Turki bin Saud bin Mohammed, KACST Vice President, and Prince Mohammed bin Salman, private adviser to Prince Salman, as well as Khaled Abu Bushait, vice executive president for government affairs at Aramco. Many scientific programs have been designed by PSSO and are planned for presentation to the public. These programs can be classified into two groups, scientific programs and traveling exhibitions. They have been designed to build credibility for the project, and to emphasize the fact that PSSO has the necessary dedication to reach its goals.
The programs contain activities intended to motivate competition and creativity and make visitors feel they are part of the Oasis. The Oasis said it is aware of the scientific and applied aspects of solving daily problems to meet the needs of both the individual and the community.
Its programs have been designed to utilize the existing PSSO facility at the diplomatic quarter in Riyadh as well as other related facilities available in Riyadh.
