Empowering The Next Generation: Ilmi And PNU's New Museum Studies Program

In a significant step towards enhancing museum studies in Saudi Arabia, ilmi, a dedicated Centre for Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STREAM) learning, in collaboration with Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU), the largest women's university globally, has launched a comprehensive series of museum studies courses. This initiative aims to nurture the next wave of professionals in the sector. Starting from April 2024, the program is set to open doors for a wide audience, ranging from recent high-school graduates to seasoned professionals seeking to diversify their skillsets or re-enter the workforce.

The newly introduced program is a product of collaboration between ilmi and PNU experts from within Saudi Arabia and internationally. It promises a rich blend of online and in-person learning experiences, with courses available in both Arabic and English. This initiative is particularly noteworthy as it includes micro-credential courses accessible to individuals over eighteen, alongside diploma, minor, and elective courses specifically designed for PNU students and recent high-school graduates.

Among the offerings are micro-credential courses covering various aspects of museum studies such as Museum Impact Studies, Museum Education and Awareness, Introduction to Museum Technologies, Fundamentals of Museum Management, and Best Practices for Integrating Digital Technology into Museums. For PNU students, the program includes an Introduction to Museums elective and specialist minors in Museums and Digital Technology, Exhibit Design, and Content Development. Additionally, a two-year diploma in Museum Management will be available to both PNU students and recent high-school graduates.

Registration for the first online micro-credential course on Fundamentals of Museum Management is now open with the course set to commence in April. Subsequent micro-credential courses are scheduled for May and June, while the diploma, minor, and elective programs will begin in September 2024 at the start of the academic year 2024/5. Graduates of this program will have the opportunity to apply their newly acquired skills by working alongside ilmi experts on unique STREAM learning programs across the Kingdom.

For those interested in joining this pioneering program and contributing to the future of museum studies in Saudi Arabia, further information and registration details can be found at the following link: [https://www.pnu.edu.sa/ar/Deanship/Devandskilldean/Pages/cent.aspx](https://www.pnu.edu.sa/ar/Deanship/Devandskilldean/Pages/cent.aspx). This initiative marks a significant milestone in the development of museum studies within the Kingdom, offering an unprecedented opportunity for aspiring museum professionals.

With inputs from SPA