RIYADH: Saudi Wildlife Authority (SWA), which is responsible for the conservation and development of wildlife, and King Saud University (KSU) entered into an agreement for scientific cooperation, research and training to preserve the nature and rich biodiversity of the Kingdom.

KSU’s Media Department said on Tuesday that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to this effect was signed by SWA President Prince Bandar bin Saud and KSU Rector Badran Al-Omar when the SWA chief visited the campus on Monday.

Speaking at the function, Prince Bandar noted: “God willing, we will soon see the results of this ambitious plan benefiting both KSU and SWA.”

He added that SWA will escort researchers from KSU as they visit nature preserves, training and research centers and will collaborate with them as they use its data banks to conduct research and training to help in the preservation of nature and biodiversity.

Prince Bandar called KSU a great home, recalling that the first president of SWA was a doctor from this prestigious university.

"The signing of this agreement comes to confirm the reciprocal scientific cooperation between KSU and SWA since the establishment of SWA in 1986," he underscored.

Furthermore, Prince Bandar noted that he is proud of KSU and its long-standing relationship with SWA, and of the scientific prosperity being achieved by KSU.

"It is a national duty that universities and educational centers should be integrated with the public and private sectors for national developments," he underlined.

Echoing the sentiment, Al-Omar also expressed his thanks and appreciation to Prince Bandar for his interest and fruitful cooperation with KSU, lauding the efforts of KSU and SWA researchers for wildlife preservation.