In 1954, the Ministry of Education was established, headed by then Prince Fahd Bin Abdul Aziz as the first Minister of Education. The first university, now known as King Saud University, was founded in Riyadh in 1957. Open to every citizen, the system provides students with free education. Saudi Arabia prizes education because of its critical importance in developing the human potential of the country. As the leader of his nation, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd Bin Abdul Aziz has often stressed how the youth of Saudi Arabia is the country's most valuable resource.
Education is a central aspect of family and community life.
Parents are deeply involved in their children's education, and the close links between home and school serve to reinforce the structure of the community and the nation. .