The Saudi Red Crescent Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with King Abdulaziz University, under the patronage of H.E the Minister of Health and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, on the sidelines of the Authority’s participation in the Global Health Exhibition 2024 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center - Malham, held from October 21 to 23, 2024.

The MoU aims to establish a joint collaboration between both parties to achieve a sustained partnership in the development and support of research efforts and scientific publishing, as well as the exchange of expertise and knowledge. It also seeks to utilize the facilities of King Abdulaziz University, contribute to the development of human resources, and provide continuous education for the staff of both parties to effectively contribute to teaching and improving emergency medical services, promoting first aid principles, and spreading the culture of international humanitarian law.

The MoU covers several areas, including the formation of joint task forces composed of qualified personnel, cooperation in offering first aid and CPR courses and certifications for students in health colleges, conducting virtual simulations, supporting efforts to advance pre-hospital emergency medical services and its education, providing experienced professionals for specialized consultations as needed, and preparing scientific research and studies. Additionally, it includes the development of curricula, such as training, scientific, and cultural materials.

The MoU also proposes topics for research, academic programs, and vital specializations, along with providing a list of training and educational programs. It involves participation in various events to raise awareness of both parties’ services and areas of work, providing training programs, and collaborating in the field of international humanitarian law. The Saudi Red Crescent will also offer volunteer opportunities for students and university staff at various events, and will contribute by reviewing essential needs for emergency response and training the health and administrative staff at the university’s healthcare centers, such as the college clinic. The Red Crescent will also provide the university with the necessary requirements, such as AED devices.

Under the MoU, King Abdulaziz University will develop diploma and master's programs based on a bridging system to meet the needs of the Saudi Red Crescent, allowing a specified number of the Authority’s employees to annually enroll in these programs for skill development. The university will also prepare professional development programs for the Authority's healthcare and administrative staff and customize training to meet the Authority’s needs. Furthermore, the university will support developmental programs, market and manufacture research products, patents, and apply them within its capabilities.

In addition, the MoU stipulates that King Abdulaziz University will make its facilities, especially specialized laboratories, simulation centers, and others, available for the Saudi Red Crescent’s activities, including meetings and training programs. The university will also allow the use of its institutions, institutes, and affiliated scientific centers. Moreover, the university will assist in evaluating applicants for technical and specialist roles in the Authority according to its requirements. It will also allocate seats for the Authority’s doctors, specialists, and technicians at conferences organized by the university.