Riyadh: Minister of Culture Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan appointed Dr. Mohammed Hasan Alwan as Acting President of Riyadh University of Arts. Dr. Alwan, who has been instrumental in the cultural sector, will now steer the university through its next phase, focusing on academic and operational readiness to enhance specialized higher education in the arts, culture, and creative industries in Saudi Arabia.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Dr. Alwan was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission in November 2024. Previously, he served as Chief Executive Officer of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission from 2020 to 2024. Dr. Alwan holds a PhD in International Business from Carleton University in Canada, an MBA from the University of Portland in the United States, and a bachelor's degree in computer information systems from King Saud University.
As acting president, Dr. Alwan will oversee the launch of academic programs and the development of educational and industry partnerships. This initiative aims to prepare qualified Saudi professionals in various artistic disciplines, ensuring the university plays a crucial role in advancing the Kingdom's cultural and creative sectors.
Riyadh University of Arts is poised to welcome its first cohort of students to specialized academic programs in theater and performing arts, music, film, and cultural management. Combining academic study with practical experience, the university aims to nurture Saudi talent and produce graduates who will support the Kingdom's burgeoning cultural sector.
This development is part of the Ministry of Culture's broader initiatives to strengthen specialized higher education in the arts and culture. It aligns with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals to cultivate national talent and reinforce culture and the arts as essential components of national development.