Jeddah, April 30, 2025 (2 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1446H):

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh presided today over the graduation ceremony of the first cohort of the "Moderation Fellowship" program, held at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, attended by university president Dr. Tarif bin Yousef Al-A'ma and Sheikh Abdulbari Al-Thubaiti, Secretary-General of the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Endowment for His Parents, along with a number of academic and preaching leaders.

A distinctive program projecting Saudi values globally

The training program, organized by the ministry in partnership with King Abdulaziz University's Scientific Endowment and supported by the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Endowment for His Parents, aims to spread the values of moderation, balance and peaceful coexistence; prepare thought leaders from 40 countries capable of promoting an enlightened, balanced religious discourse; and strengthen the Kingdom's standing as a global hub for promoting tolerance and dialogue.

At a Glance

  • Participants: 61 trainees from 40 countries.
  • Graduates: 55.
  • Training hours: 170 hours across six integrated learning packages.
  • Satisfaction rate: 92 percent.
  • Applied projects: 55 projects submitted by graduates, including 24 in education (43.6 percent), 9 in mosques and Islamic centers (16.4 percent), 9 in moderation and balance, 6 innovative projects, 4 in intellectual security, and 3 in artificial intelligence.

Inspiring leadership messages

Minister Al Sheikh said the program embodies the Kingdom's commitment to the values of moderation, tolerance and human connection, and lays the groundwork for global cooperation in shaping a moderate religious discourse, thanking King Abdulaziz University and the King Abdullah Endowment for their institutional role in the program's success.

Closing recognition and honorary shields

Outstanding graduates and students were honored at the closing ceremony; King Abdulaziz University presented the Minister with a shield of appreciation for his efforts; and the ministry honored its partners from the Scientific Endowment and the academics who supervised the program.