RIYADH: The Swiss Embassy in Riyadh — in cooperation with the French Embassy and Alliance Francaise — is hosting a music concert on April 18 at the Cultural Palace in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. It aims to showcase French-language Swiss music through performances by Swiss artists Marc Aymon and Milla Besson.
Born in 1982 in Sion, Switzerland, Aymon has released four albums and his music has reached audiences across South America, Iran, the US, Africa, and the French-speaking world. Aymon has performed at various concerts and festivals, including the Paleo Festival in Nyon in 2006 and 2013.
Aymon and Besson recently gave an exclusive French-language interview to Arab News in which they told of their love of Swiss culture.
Aymon said: “It (Swiss culture) represents the authenticity of nature, elegance, precision, and quality.
“Swiss culture is inspiring just about everywhere. It’s a wonderful country to leave and return to. I believe in movement. I like to be a Swiss artist who arrives on time, who is very precise and fussy, but who doesn’t hesitate to change all the plans and go through the window when all the doors remain closed.”
His passion for music has been recognized on European and global stages. He added: “It’s a passion for memory, for archives, for the emotions we all share.
“I fell in love with an old song from 1890 and thought it was beautiful before I knew it was part of Switzerland's heritage.”
Aymon will be performing for the first time in Saudi Arabia with Besson.
He added: “We’re going to be playing in a magnificent auditorium, a very large room equipped with a great sound system.
“I’m looking forward to unplugging my guitar, in total acoustic mode, (and) asking people to stop filming us with their phones to experience a moment of disarming simplicity.”
Besson, who was born in 2000, is a Swiss singer-songwriter who has been collaborating and composing with singers Aymon and Jeremie Kisling, and the duo Aliose, since 2019.
She said: “We all have important encounters that shape our lives. Marc Aymon was the first person to take my music seriously, to see in me what I didn’t dare to see, and to offer me my first stages and studio experiences. He helped me to make my mark, to become solid and free artistically.
“This is my first time in Saudi Arabia and Riyadh. Like any first time there’s a certain mystery and excitement about it. I'm looking forward to discovering this new country, its people, and its culture.”
Saudi FM meets with counterparts on sidelines of G20 meeting in Johannesburg
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan is attending a meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg
Updated 7 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his counterparts from the UK, China, Australia, and France separately in Johannesburg on Thursday.
On the sidelines of a meeting of G20 foreign ministers held for the first time in Africa, Prince Faisal discussed regional and international developments with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
With Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Prince Faisal discussed intensifying coordination on issues of common interest.
Ways to enhance and develop joint relations were reviewed by Prince Faisal and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong.
Prince Faisal also discussed regional developments and efforts made to achieve stability and peace in the region with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot.
How AI is transforming education — but potentially impacting child development
AI has enabled personalized learning by adapting content to students’ pace and style, offering interactive, gamified experiences
However, experts warn that excessive AI use may impact early childhood cognitive growth and reduce real-world learning
Updated 4 sec ago
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing industries across the globe, and education is no exception. From personalized learning experiences to administrative efficiency, AI is reshaping classrooms and redefining the roles of both teachers and students.
However, as AI’s influence in education expands, experts warn of potential drawbacks — particularly when it comes to young children.
AI-powered tools are becoming increasingly prevalent in education. According to a 2024 report by the UK-based digital safety organization Internet Matters, nearly 44 percent of children are currently using AI, and 54 percent have incorporated it into school assignments.
The report, titled “Artificially Intelligent? Children’s and parents’ views on generative AI in education,” found that teachers, too, are integrating AI into their daily tasks, with 60 percent reporting that they use the technology to enhance their work.
The adoption of AI in education reflects a broader global trend. Experts at Allied Market Research project the market for AI-driven educational tools will grow from $2.5 billion in 2022 to $6 billion by the end of 2025, highlighting the increasing reliance on technology in schools.
In Saudi Arabia, the government has embraced AI’s potential in various sectors, including education. The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence, established in 2019, aims to drive innovation in AI and position the Kingdom at the forefront of data-driven economies.
For educators, AI presents exciting opportunities to enhance learning experiences.
“AI has transformed education by personalizing learning experiences, allowing for tailored content that meets individual student needs,” Faleh bin Saad Al-Huqbani, director of Al-Muqaddimah Schools in Riyadh, told Arab News.
By adapting content to a child’s pace and learning style, AI enables more individualized instruction, helping students grasp difficult concepts with greater ease. Additionally, AI-powered tutoring systems provide real-time feedback and support, reinforcing learning outside the classroom.
Young students attend a lecture on artificial intelligence and robotics during a science exhibition conducted by the King Salman Science Oasis in Riyadh. (SPA file photo)
“AI tools can engage children with interactive and gamified learning environments, making education more enjoyable,” Al-Huqbani added.
Beyond the classroom, AI is also streamlining administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on teaching rather than paperwork. Automated grading systems, data analysis tools, and AI-powered lesson planning are freeing up valuable time for teachers to engage with students more effectively.
While AI’s impact on education is largely positive, some experts caution against its overuse — especially among young children.
Dr. Sultan Ayoub Meo, professor of physiology at the College of Medicine at King Saud University, stresses the importance of cognitive development in early childhood, warning that excessive reliance on AI and electronic devices could have unintended consequences.
Dr. Sultan Ayoub Meo. (Supplied)
“It is not just a natural biological maturation; it is shaped by the infant’s experiences and interactions with their environment,” Dr. Meo told Arab News.
“Children’s cognitive development from birth to 5 years of age is critical due to rapid brain growth and acquiring initial knowledge in thinking, learning, problem-solving, language, and understanding.”
Dr. Meo believes AI has an important role to play in higher education, but he does not recommend its use for children under the age of 6.
While AI has an important role to play in higher education, Dr. Meo does not recommend its use for children under the age of 6. (SPA file photo)
“In this age group, the most important and highly sensitive systems, nervous and endocrine systems, and their physiological processes are rapidly developing,” he said.
He also pointed out potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to AI-enabled devices. “Using AI for children at the age of 6 can cause behavioral and psychological issues,” he said.
“We cannot deny the effects of electromagnetic field radiation generated by AI-allied devices and their hazards on various body organs, including the brain, ears, and eyes, especially in infants and children.”
DID YOU KNOW?
• AI is transforming education, with 60 percent of teachers using it to automate grading, analyze data, and streamline administrative tasks.
• Experts warn that excessive AI use may impact early childhood cognitive development and reduce real-world learning opportunities.
• Experts advocate balancing AI with traditional education to ensure students develop both technological and interpersonal skills.
Despite these concerns, Dr. Meo acknowledges that AI is now an integral part of education and research.
“This is the era of science and technology,” he said. “The future of digital education is extremely important in academia and research. Digital education makes knowledge easily accessible and enables students to access the same knowledge resources.”
In addition to making education more accessible, AI facilitates lifelong learning and skill acquisition, helping students meet the demands of an evolving job market. However, Dr. Meo highlighted the importance of being selective in how and when AI is introduced in the classroom.
“It will be helpful at higher school and university levels rather than primary schooling,” he said. “Digital education at primary school levels may replace real-world learning and human interaction.”
While AI’s impact on education is undeniable, experts agree that a balanced approach is necessary. AI should complement, rather than replace, traditional teaching methods, ensuring that students continue to benefit from human interaction and hands-on learning experiences.
“We must balance technology with traditional teaching and learning methods,” Dr. Meo added.
Secretary-general of Etidal welcomes director of UN’s Counter-Terrorism Centre
Updated 35 min 27 sec ago
SPA
RIYADH: Mansour Al-Shammari, the secretary-general of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology — also known as Etidal — welcomed Mauro Miedico, director of the UN’s Counter-Terrorism Centre, to Etidal’s headquarters in Riyadh on Thursday.
The parties discussed combating extremism and terrorism and subjects of mutual interest.
Saudi artist’s ‘Tafawut’ exhibition showcases harmony between art and architecture
Salman Al-Amir’s use of acrylic and oil paint allows for a wide range of textures and tones making his works both thought-provoking and visually striking
Updated 20 February 2025
Hind Al-Khunaizi
RIYADH: Saudi artist and architect Salman Al-Amir’s exhibition, “Tafawut” (Disparity) which was held at Mahd Alfnon Gallery in Riyadh from Feb. 13-19, showcased a glimpse of his creative process, in which he skillfully blended art and architecture.
Born in 1963 in Al-Ahsa, Al-Amir holds a master’s from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s from King Faisal University.
With a background in interior design and architecture, he creates spaces that blend functionality with artistic expression, transforming each project into an exciting adventure.
“Tafawut” presented a diverse and engaging collection of 37 artworks that serve as a window into the artist’s emotions and experiences.
The exhibition showcased a stunning variety of styles and mediums; some pieces were abstract and displayed a masterful play of geometric shapes and others representational, with artworks focusing on people, animals, or objects. Some featured prints, while others featured dreamy backdrops.
His use of acrylic and oil paint allows for a wide range of textures and tones making his works both thought-provoking and visually striking.
The color palettes were equally varied, ranging from earthy to vibrant tones, further demonstrating the versatility of Al-Amir’s artistic vision and skill.
This flair is a testament to Al-Amir’s architectural background, where precision and creativity come together. Each artwork invites viewers to explore the harmonious relationship between structure and form.
His talent lies in merging his architectural expertise with his artistic passion. The paintings on display incorporate intricate details, touching upon various elements of Al-Amir’s experiences.
When asked about a specific painting that links his personal and professional experiences, Al-Amir said: “A painting titled ‘Ideas on a Flat Carpet’ is devoid of ideas but filled with the principles and foundations of Islamic miniature arts, often overlooked in our Islamic cultural heritage, yet rich with inspiration for the Saudi, Arab, and Islamic artist.”
This painting reflects Al-Amir’s strong connection to his cultural roots and his passion for reinterpreting traditional artistic forms in a contemporary context.
Reflecting on his creative process, Al-Amir explained: “I am still on a journey to discover the creative form that satisfies me and relieves me from the arduous search.”
The exhibition itself displays this ongoing exploration and experimentation.
Discussing the exhibition’s theme, Al-Amir stated: “Disparity here means diversity, not a difference in levels.
“This is precisely the message I wanted to convey to my fellow artists and amateurs to explore the depths of their talents and strive to reveal them,” Al-Amir told Arab News.
The exhibition celebrated the multifaceted nature of art and the importance of embracing diverse styles and approaches.
As Al-Amir looks ahead, he shared his artistic goals. “I’m working to bring more Eastern influences into my art,” he explained.
He aims to give his creations a unique character that reflects the beauty and richness of Eastern traditions.
The artist shared valuable advice for aspiring artists. “Learn the rules like a professional so you can break them like an artist. Additionally, I encourage aspiring artists not to imitate Western styles; instead, they should adapt and reformulate these influences to support their local identity.”
Al-Amir is a dynamic force in the art world, leading workshops that ignite creativity. As a juror for art shows and a lecturer at King Fahd University, he inspires and helps direct many other aspiring artists.
Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs finalizes Madinah’s Ramadan preparations
Updated 20 February 2025
SPA
The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance has completed its preparations for this year’s holy month of Ramadan in Madinah.
Mosques, praying areas and their facilities have been prepared to receive worshippers, ensuring they perform their rituals in an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence.
Sheikh Osama bin Zaid Al-Madkhali, director general of the ministry’s branch in Madinah, said that the body’s efforts included intensifying regular maintenance rounds to ensure that mosques were free of any malfunctions or issues.
In addition, specialized field teams have been formed to handle emergency maintenance work around the clock, ensuring uninterrupted services.
Inspection tours of mosques have also been intensified to identify needs and ensure optimal preparation, in addition to following up on imams, preachers and muezzins to ensure their adherence to the ministry’s directives in serving worshippers.