Othman, President of King Saud University, said here Monday that this year's budgetary allocation of SR8.62 billion for his institution shows that the government considers “investment in talent and intelligence” to be the Kingdom's highest priority. The allocation is the largest in KSU's 55-year history, according to a KSU press release. “Industry used to be the key asset in a country's budget and calculations,” Dr. Al-Othman said. “Now, it is the creation of knowledge. This is more profitable than the creation of wealth. Investment in talent and intelligence is now the foremost productive investment. “The safety and security of any nation hinges on the strength and wisdom of its leadership. Our country is blessed with a leadership building for the future,” Dr. Al-Othman said. He said the Kingdom's leadership is fully aware of its duty toward the country's citizens and is committed to developing individuals who respond to the financial commitment by optimizing their potential. He said that the Kingdom's leaders have wisely guided the country by exercising efficient management of revenue and income distribution. Dr. Al-Othman said that because of the leaders' wisdom, the Kingdom remains a safe haven for world investors. In the “Ease of Doing Business Project,” Saudi Arabia ranks 12th among 183 countries. Dr. Al-Othman thanked King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques; Crown Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and the ministers of higher education and finance for supporting KSU's developmental plans.
