Saudi Arabia has taken a landmark step by introducing music education at the primary school level. As part of this initiative, the government is set to recruit 17,000 female music teachers, with the goal of familiarising children with music and art from an early age, nurturing creativity, and cultivating future talent. The news was reported by Gulf News.
The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture have jointly launched the project, and thousands of female teachers are already undergoing specialised music training—particularly those working in government and private kindergartens and primary schools.
According to Saudi media reports, over 12,000 female teachers received training in the first phase, which began in late 2022. The second phase has now commenced, involving the professional development of an additional 17,000 female teachers in music education.
This training programme is part of the “Cultural Competency Development Strategy”, which aims to enhance children’s creativity and cultural awareness. The training focuses on singing, rhythm, basic instrumental skills, and an introduction to Saudi Arabia’s traditional folk music.
Upon completion, the newly trained teachers will be responsible for conducting music classes in kindergartens and primary schools. Through these lessons, students will learn the fundamentals of music, develop emotional expression, and gain a deeper understanding of cultural values.
Among Saudi Arabia’s major cultural initiatives is the establishment of the country’s first College of Arts at King Saud University in Riyadh, inaugurated in February 2023. The institution offers opportunities for music and fine arts research, innovation, and higher education. Advanced courses have also been introduced to encourage talented students to pursue professional training in the arts.
In 2020, the Ministry of Culture created the Music Commission to promote the development of the music sector. The commission’s objectives include ensuring equal access to music education, nurturing young talent, and integrating music into the nation’s economy and social life.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a striking cultural transformation. Concerts, theatre festivals, film screenings, and cultural competitions are now held regularly across the kingdom. This rise in artistic and entertainment activities reflects the nation’s broader social and cultural modernisation efforts.