عربي English Türkçe اردو فارسى
Logo
Latest News
Culture

King Abdulaziz University Wins Global 'Zero Project Award’ for 2024

King Abdulaziz University Wins Global 'Zero Project Award’ for 2024
TT
TT

King Abdulaziz University Wins Global 'Zero Project Award’ for 2024

King Abdulaziz University Wins Global 'Zero Project Award’ for 2024

King Abdulaziz University (KAU) won the "Zero Project Award" for the third consecutive time, amidst participation from 523 candidates representing 97 countries.
On Saturday, KAU’s initiative "We Hear You: The Preparatory Year for the Deaf Students" was awarded at the United Nations headquarters in Vienna, Austria.

This award, presented annually, honors innovative projects and initiatives that aim to empower people with disabilities worldwide, SPA reported.
The university's third consecutive award is a testament to its commitment to sustaining its achievements, particularly in supporting students with disabilities.

This recognition also underscores the university's dedication to ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing the services offered to this demographic and prioritizing their participation in global events and celebrations.

Most Viewed

 
 
Culture

20-Year-Olds Gathering in Kimonos for Coming of Age Day Ceremony in Japan

Kimono-clad Japanese young women take pictures after attending a Coming-of-Age Day ceremony in Yokohama, near Tokyo, Japan, 12 January 2026. EPA/FRANCK ROBICHON
Kimono-clad Japanese young women take pictures after attending a Coming-of-Age Day ceremony in Yokohama, near Tokyo, Japan, 12 January 2026. EPA/FRANCK ROBICHON
TT
TT

20-Year-Olds Gathering in Kimonos for Coming of Age Day Ceremony in Japan

Kimono-clad Japanese young women take pictures after attending a Coming-of-Age Day ceremony in Yokohama, near Tokyo, Japan, 12 January 2026. EPA/FRANCK ROBICHON
Kimono-clad Japanese young women take pictures after attending a Coming-of-Age Day ceremony in Yokohama, near Tokyo, Japan, 12 January 2026. EPA/FRANCK ROBICHON

Young women in brightly colored long-sleeved kimonos and young men in formal suits or traditional hakama and haori gathered Monday at Yokohama Arena to mark Coming-of-Age Day, an annual celebration for those who have turned 20.

The ceremonies, which are a widely observed public rite of passage in Japan, lasted less than an hour. Before and after the events, young adults gathered near the arena entrance, sidewalks and nearby train stations, greeting friends they had not seen for a long time. Smartphones were raised repeatedly as participants took pictures of each other and themselves.

Among the many participants wearing black and navy suits, a large number of young men chose traditional hakama trousers and haori jackets.

Legally, adulthood in Japan now begins at 18, following a revision of the Civil Code in April 2022. Even so, most local governments continue to hold Coming-of-Age ceremonies for 20-year-olds.

Inside Yokohama Arena, participants stood for the national anthem, then sang Yokohama’s city song together. Many then switched on the lights of their mobile phones, illuminating the hall.

Culture

Saudi Pavilion at Makkah's Global Village Showcases the Kingdom’s Culture

Saudi Pavilion at Makkah's Global Village Showcases the Kingdom’s Culture
TT
TT

Saudi Pavilion at Makkah's Global Village Showcases the Kingdom’s Culture

Saudi Pavilion at Makkah's Global Village Showcases the Kingdom’s Culture

The Saudi pavilion at Global Village in Makkah, part of the Makkah winter season, reflects the richness and uniqueness of the Kingdom's culture and heritage.

It features interactive and engaging sections that introduce visitors to the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, including live demonstrations of traditional handicrafts and artwork inspired by the local environment, SPA reported.

The pavilion’s presence at Global Village reflects ongoing efforts to highlight the nation’s cultural heritage, promote its civilizational legacy, and strengthen its cultural presence at major events.

Culture

Culinary Arts Commission Joins 17th Klija Festival in Buraidah as Strategic Partner

Culinary Arts Commission Joins 17th Klija Festival in Buraidah as Strategic Partner
TT
TT

Culinary Arts Commission Joins 17th Klija Festival in Buraidah as Strategic Partner

Culinary Arts Commission Joins 17th Klija Festival in Buraidah as Strategic Partner

The Culinary Arts Commission is participating as a strategic partner in the 17th Klija Festival, held in the city of Buraidah and running until January 17, under the patronage of Qassim Region Governor Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal.

The commission’s involvement comes as part of its strategy to support events and festivals specializing in Saudi culinary arts by highlighting national and regional dishes and showcasing the Kingdom’s culinary and cultural diversity, SPA reported.

The festival features several zones and interactive activities aimed at supporting families working in the cottage industry and local artisans who produce Klija, while introducing visitors to its history and authenticity as a regional dish of Qassim, in addition to offering live demonstrations and unique interactive experiences.

During the festival, the commission is also presenting a selection of books available for viewing and purchase.