Sana'a: The fifth poetry competition and festival for students of public and private universities and community colleges began today in Sana'a. Organized by the Higher Education Sector of the Ministry of Education and Scientific Research, in cooperation with the Modern Specialized University, the event coincides with the anniversary of the Prophet's birth (1448 AH).
According to Yemen News Agency, the three-day competition features approximately 80 poets from 30 public and private universities and colleges in the capital and other governorates, competing in both free verse and vernacular poetry. A judging panel comprised of poets Alwan Al-Jilani and Mohammed Al-Adini is overseeing the competition.
At the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Hatem Al-Du'ais, praised the General Directorate of Activities within the Higher Education Sector for its role in implementing activities that contribute to instilling moral values, developing young people's cultural, social, and scientific capabilities, and facilitating the exchange of experiences and knowledge among university students.
Dr. Al-Du'ais emphasized that the festival is more than just a literary competition; it is a cultural event and a representation of the awareness and intellect of young people. The large turnout of university student poets and the high quality of the poems reflected an intellectual and linguistic maturity that surpassed their years of academic study.
He pointed out that holding such competitions and festivals within universities is vital for building well-rounded student personalities. Universities are not just places for academic knowledge but incubators of thought, creativity, and cultural awareness.
Abdul Karim Al-Dahhak, Director General of Activities in the Higher Education Sector, noted the importance of preserving authentic Islamic identity and the Arabic language. He highlighted that these competitions cultivate a new generation of poets and writers to lead the cultural scene in the future. Students' engagement in literature and creative pursuits promotes values of tolerance and beauty, protecting their minds from destructive ideologies and distorted cultures.
The President of the Specialized University, Dr. Mujahid Al-Jabr, explained that the competition and festival reflect the pivotal role of universities as incubators of creativity and human development. The festival aims to identify and showcase students' creative talents in classical and vernacular poetry to the cultural scene.
He added that the competition strengthens the younger generation's connection to the Arabic language and its literature, preserving identity and authenticity. It fosters a competitive environment among university students and enriches the university's cultural scene beyond academic pursuits. The inauguration ceremony, attended by university leaders and directors of activities, included artistic performances and poem recitations by student poets, highlighting the creative spirit and talents within the academic community.
