Arabian Leopard Fund Launches Arabian Leopard Scholarship Program

The program includes 50 study missions to provide the next generation of AlUla conservationists with the practical skills and knowledge they need to protect the future of the endangered Arabian leopard. (SPA)
The program includes 50 study missions to provide the next generation of AlUla conservationists with the practical skills and knowledge they need to protect the future of the endangered Arabian leopard. (SPA)
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Arabian Leopard Fund Launches Arabian Leopard Scholarship Program

The program includes 50 study missions to provide the next generation of AlUla conservationists with the practical skills and knowledge they need to protect the future of the endangered Arabian leopard. (SPA)
The program includes 50 study missions to provide the next generation of AlUla conservationists with the practical skills and knowledge they need to protect the future of the endangered Arabian leopard. (SPA)

The Arabian Leopard Fund, in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), launched on Wednesday the Arabian Leopard Scholarship Program, which aligns with the AlUla Scholarship Program.

The program launch event was held at the new headquarters of the Arabian Leopard Fund in Riyadh.

The program includes 50 study missions to provide the next generation of AlUla conservationists with the practical skills and knowledge they need to protect the future of the endangered Arabian leopard.

The launch of the Arabian Leopard Scholarship Program follows the first International Day of the Arabian Leopard recognized by the United Nations, which was officially celebrated on February 10.

As part of the fund's commitment to developing human resources, it has initiated a five-year partnership with the British Durrell Conservation Academy. Under this collaboration, the fund fully sponsors participants enrolled in the Durrell Conservation Academy's DESMAN (Durrell Endangered Species Management) Program.

Additionally, another significant partnership has been forged with the RCU to design a specialized training program. This program focuses on acquiring skills related to the conservation of Arabian leopards and the effective management of captive breeding programs.

The newly launched scholarship program complements the Arabian Leopard Grants for research and initiatives for individuals and organizations. The grants include several domains such as zoology, environmental protection, nature conservation, veterinary medicine, biology, economics, and sociology.

The RCU established the Arabian Leopard Fund upon a royal decree and with an initial funding of $25 million to support Arabian Leopard conservation efforts regionally and globally, after observing the sharp decline in the number of Arabian Leopards, which was considered as “critically endangered”, according to the classification of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The Kingdom’s commitment to preserving the species of Arabian leopard confirms its eagerness to protect biodiversity and the natural environment, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, as the fund, through its programs and initiatives, plays a pivotal role in mobilizing global efforts to reduce the extinction of big cats and restore environmental balance in the region.



Saudi Northern Borders Witness Return of Diplotaxis

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA
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Saudi Northern Borders Witness Return of Diplotaxis

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA

The Saudi Northern Borders region, renowned for its diverse desert landscape, is witnessing the resurgence of the Diplotaxis, a vibrant yellow-flowered species that had become increasingly rare.
This resurgence is attributed to continuous conservation efforts, including the establishment of wildlife reserves and the implementation of stricter environmental protection laws, according to SPA.
Diplotaxis is an annual plant in the Northern Boreders region, typically reaching half a meter in height. Its hairy leaves, an adaptation to the harsh desert climate, help retain moisture. The plant thrives in gravelly soils and blooms in spring with fragrant yellow flowers.
Aman Environmental Association Board of Directors Chairman Nasser Al-Majlad told SPA that the early rainfall this year fostered the growth of numerous plant species, including Diplotaxis, which had been absent from the area for several years.
The Northern Borders region boasts a rich variety of plant life, including aromatic, seasonal, and annual species.

This diverse flora plays a crucial role in combating desertification, stabilizing soil, increasing biodiversity, and enhancing the region's environmental health. Moreover, it contributes to the region's tourism appeal.