In line with agreements signed by the Ministry of Higher Education and the General Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, the ministry has introduced in the Kingdom's universities new specializations in tourism including the restoration of antiquities and archeological sites. A source at the Ministry said that under these agreements, universities will launch new programs, such as the rehabilitation of archeological sites and old historic buildings, as well as designing a package of specialist training courses in tourism and introducing higher studies in the field. In this context, the Commission and Taif University has held a series of meetings to discuss a work plan for the implementation of the MoU signed by them under which the university will create specializations and programs in tourism and antiquities. The meeting, chaired by Dr Fareed Felmban, Deputy President of Taif University for Educational Affairs, discussed ways of benefiting from the university's experience in conducting research and studies in different areas of antiquities and tourism. The meeting also focused on the importance of the protection of the national heritage and handicrafts by organizing training courses in the area of the restoration and rehabilitation of heritage buildings, besides benefiting from the experience of the teaching staff in the fine arts department in the university.
