Saudi Gazette report BOSTON — The Saudi cultural attache in the USA said that if regulations are strictly implemented, half of the students abroad would be sent back home, Al-Watan daily reported. Dr. Mohammad Al-Eisa stated that the attache is lenient with some students, and cautioned victims of family abuse to notify the police, without first contacting the attache. During a meeting with students in Boston, Dr. Al-Eisa stressed that the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques views all citizens as equal, regardless of their area, tribe, gender, or faith. “The attache doors are open for any student, and the attache is here to serve and facilitate any difficulties for students,” he said. He noted that he personally has broken regulations many times to allow some students a second chance to complete their education. “However, there is no place for those who are continuously irresponsible and reckless, as they are simply wasting money that can be put towards better use,” he stated. Al-Eaisa explained that the attache has submitted its recommendations to the Ministry of Higher Education for an increase in students allowances. “The recommendations included a certain increase for students who are enrolled in the best 10 American universities, followed by those enrolled in the best 20 universities, and another allowance for those studying in the best 25 universities,” he explained. He pointed out that the attache rejected demands for allowances to students who are studying in expensive cities, as allowances should be equal to all students. Al-Eisa further stated that the number of students abroad has increased from only 10,000 in 2007, to 111,000 in 2014. He concluded his talk by announcing that the cultural attache electronic gate has been upgraded, and has become more effective and interactive.
