Saudi Aramco launched its summer cultural program here Thursday with a focus on health, safe driving and environmental protection.

Ahmed Al-Qahtani, the deputy governor of Asir region, launched the event on behalf of Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Abdul Aziz, governor of Asir region. The program takes place on the sidelines of the Abha summer festival.

Other officials present at the event included Abdullah bin Mataan, executive director of the General Authority for Tourism; Mohammed Al-Mashat, deputy director of Saudi Aramco affairs in the Western Region; and Jalal Al-Khatib, head of public relations at Saudi Aramco in the Western Region.

Al-Qahtani praised Saudi Aramco for providing outstanding events and playing a leading developmental role in the region. Al-Mashat said the company has helped the community with its programs on public health, paper recycling and agriculture.

The Abha program focuses on health, food, science and technology, and how to motivate children to think creatively. There are special sessions on safe driving including how to use seat belts, the type of petrol to put into a car and ways to drive defensively. There is also a session on the dangers of smoking.

A number of volunteers are participating to highlight their work. The program opens daily from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m.