Saudi Arabia celebrated its independence on September 23, and some UTM students joined in the festivities in their own way.
Even thousands of miles away, several international students at UTM celebrated their country’s National Day. During the week prior to and surrounding the event, many Saudi Arabian students celebrated their country’s independence by gathering together outside of the University Center, encouraging people to become more familiar with their countries beliefs and lifestyle.
National Saudi Day is the anniversary of King Abdul-Aziz’s declaration of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a monarchy.
The most significant portion of the week’s ceremonies happened on September 23 in the University Center Ballroom. UTM students and faculty presented several speeches and video presentations on the topic of Saudi Arabia. The ceremony served not only as a celebration of national pride, but also as a sort of farewell celebration for departing foreign exchange students.
The Saudi Arabian culture considers education to be a virtue. King Abdullah, the current monarch of the country and the son of Abdul-Aziz, has aided in the development of education within the country by creating universities and scholarship programs for students who choose to attend universities, as is greatly encouraged in their country.
“Education is the best gift anyone can give you,” said UTM finance professor Mahmoud Haddad.
Saudi Day serves as a way for Saudi students to reconnect with their homeland, which serves as a strong link between their country and the United States. Not only is this national day celebrated in another country across the world, but it also is celebrated here in the United States at UTM.
