Initiatives launched to counter sports intolerance
The King Abdulaziz Center for National Dialogue (KACND) has launched a number of initiatives to counter the intolerance for sports in Saudi society in light of the emerging trend noticed in various media outlets, especially some TV channels and radio stations. Heated arguments between sports commentators and heads of various sports clubs with the involvement of officials in some cases has prompted intervention by the KACND which has signed agreements and partnerships with concerned groups which can coordinate with the organization to minimize the impact of an unhealthy bias toward sports. Faisal Muammar, KACND secretary-general, made this announcement during a meeting with Prince Abdullah bin Musaed, chief of the General Presidency of Youth Welfare, at the Academy of Dialogue for Training and Public Opinion Polls at KACND recently. Al-Muammar underlined the efforts made by the KACND through its national meetings with the participation of youth in their discussion on various national issues and identify their visions and aspirations for the future. The meeting was attended by Abdullah Al-Mutlaq, KACND chairman of the board, and Fahd Al-Sultan, deputy secretary-general. During the meeting, Al-Muammar briefed Prince Abdullah on the results of the national forums and the center carried out recently, especially the 4th forum, which was intended to discuss youth issues and their aspirations. A youth committee at the center presented its programs such as empowerment, youth volunteer projects, the ambassador and dialogue cafe. The meeting also discussed some aspects of joint cooperation and projects which can be implemented in cooperation with the General Presidency for Youth and Academic Dialogue and KACND initiatives on sport intolerance in Saudi society in the near future. Al-Mutlaq also stressed the deep interest of KACND in promoting a culture of moderation and tolerance in Saudi society especially with regard to sports.