US envoy lauds king’s efforts to boost education
The US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, James B. Smith, underscored the educational achievements of the Saudi graduating class of 2013 while crediting these achievements to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah for his vision and for his country when he initiated the scholarship program in 2005.
In his video recorded remarks, Smith said, “Among you are the next generation of leaders. You are the entrepreneurs who will turn ideas into jobs. You are the professors and the teachers who will educate the next generation. You are the scientists and lawyers who will serve in government and serve the needs of your fellow citizens.”
Addressing the families and friends of graduates of the King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) this year, he said this is a
You are the entrepreneurs who will turn ideas into jobs. You are the professors and the teachers who will educate the next generation.
joyous occasion and a memorable day for both countries.
The envoy’s remarks were broadcast yesterday in Washington for the KASP graduation ceremony. He said, “As United States Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, I am proud that you chose to study in the United States and even prouder that you have succeeded.”
He further said, “Your hard work has paid off. Now I am sure there were days when you thought you would never make it. It was exceptionally hard for you to live and study far away from your family and communities. But you didn’t give up. You just worked harder. I would like to recognize Khalid Al- Anqari for his work as the minister of education in carrying out this important vision,” he said.
According to Smith, there are 150,000 young Saudi men and women studying abroad, including more than 70,000 in the United States alone.
He also expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Adel Al-Jubeir and the Cultural Attaché Mohammed Al-Issa and their staff for their commitment to their success during their studies in the United States.
“I hope you and your families feel especially proud today, as well. I salute you on your accomplishments and send you my congratulations on this special occasion of graduation,” he noted adding “parents and families have been a critical part of your success.” They’ve supported you, worried about you and encouraged you.
To the parents and families here today I say we are honored that you have entrusted us with your most valuable assets, your sons and daughters. Thank you,” he said.
Smith said, “This ceremony is a celebration of your achievements. Each of you came to the United States to pursue a dream and to obtain a world-class education. Many of you began your journey learning English.
You lived in towns and cities all across this country and far away from your families and friends. You studied hard. You found your place in a different culture. You made a home in our communities and developed connections and friendships that will last a lifetime. You have succeeded.
He said the graduates could be proud of their success in representing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. “Both of our countries are better off because you were here. We have shared our cultures. We’ve shared our customs. We’ve learned from each other. And because of you, there is more mutual understanding and mutual respect between the peoples of our great countries.”
“As Americans, we believe that the individual has the power to make the world anew and to make the future that we all seek. It is a fundamental optimism that has guided us since the founding of our country: No challenge is too great, no mission is too hard. It is this spirit that I hope will guide you as you return home and you make your mark on the future of Saudi Arabia,” he noted.
Smith said, “On behalf of President Obama, and the American people, I offer my sincerest congratulations to all of you and your families on a wonderful achievement. Good luck to you and your families in your future endeavors, wherever they may take you.”