Osama Aljohani, Omar Alomran, and Osama Dabbousi will travel to the University of Oxford next October, joining an elite group of global scholars from over 100 countries.

The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902, is widely recognized as the world’s oldest and most respected postgraduate fellowship. It provides exceptional students with full financial support to study at Oxford University.

The program aims to nurture future leaders who combine intellect, character, and a desire to serve humanity. It stands as a symbol of global academic excellence and leadership development.

The Saudi Rhodes Scholarship was introduced in 2018 through a generous gift from Mohammed Alagil, co-founder of Jarir Bookstores, in partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Education.

Since then, it has supported 18 exceptional Saudi students who have gone on to make contributions in fields such as medicine, genetics, technology, and the creative arts.

This year’s scholars continue that legacy of excellence and ambition, representing Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in global academia.

Osama Aljohani, a senior chemical engineering student at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, specializes in hydrogen mobility and renewable energy.

Growing up in Yanbu Industrial City inspired his passion for energy innovation and environmental sustainability. His research explores crude-to-chemicals conversion and catalyst performance optimization.

Aljohani has also completed a research internship in Austin, Texas, as a data and chemometrics analyst, where he applied advanced data analytics in industrial applications.

Beyond academics, he has co-founded several initiatives supporting students and young innovators, including programs that encourage Saudi youth in technology, research, and game development.

At Oxford, Aljohani plans to pursue master’s degrees in energy systems and sustainability, with a focus on solving water scarcity challenges through renewable energy.

Fellow recipient Omar Alomran recently graduated in software engineering from King Fahd University and focuses on artificial intelligence and economic research.

He has received multiple academic awards, including the Oxford/KAUST AI Program Scholarship and a semester scholarship at Georgia Tech in the United States.

Alomran has conducted research in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Economy and Planning and published works on public policy and international relations.

He has also been part of Thmanyah Media, contributing to economic and political analysis that reaches millions across the Arab world.

At Oxford, he will pursue a Master of Public Policy, focusing on evidence-based economic reforms and social development aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

The third scholar, Osama Dabbousi, is currently pursuing a master’s degree in computer science at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

His research specializes in high-performance computing, with a thesis on GPU-accelerated large-scale acoustic simulation.

A Boston University graduate in data science, Dabbousi earned the CDS Academic Excellence Award and holds a U.S. patent from his research with Aramco Americas.

He co-founded a student initiative that helps peers prepare for competitive technical interviews and plans to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science at Oxford.

The Rhodes Trust praised the three Saudi scholars for their exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential.

Rick Trainor, interim warden and CEO of the Rhodes Trust, said the 2026 class embodies excellence and diversity from every region of the world.

Professor Christian Sahner, national secretary for the Rhodes Scholarships in Saudi Arabia, said the selected students represent “the best of their country — combining intellect, creativity, and service.”

He added that their accomplishments align closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of empowering youth and fostering innovation.

Education remains a key pillar of the Kingdom’s national transformation agenda, and the Rhodes Scholarships serve as an example of Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global academia.

Through opportunities like these, talented Saudis are helping shape the future by addressing global challenges through science, technology, and policy.

The Rhodes community continues to unite scholars worldwide with a shared mission — to use knowledge, leadership, and integrity to make a positive difference in the world.

The “josh”, that unmistakable spirit of enthusiasm, was palpable right from the start.

It was an honour and a privilege to be invited as the Chief Guest for the Annual Sports Day Celebration of Mount Fort Academy, Dehradun, on 17th October 2025. The event was not just a sports function, it was a heartwarming display of discipline, teamwork, and the deep-rooted values that define true education.

As I arrived at the school premises, I was received with a traditional welcome, a tilak ceremony that instantly evoked warmth and respect. In an age where ceremonial courtesies are often forgotten, this simple yet profound gesture spoke volumes about the school’s commitment to preserving India’s cultural traditions. It reminded me of the very ethos that binds our classrooms to our consciousness, respect, humility, and grace.

The programme commenced with the recitation of the Gayatri Mantra, creating an atmosphere charged with serenity and purpose. The rhythmic chanting by the students set a spiritual tone that beautifully complemented the athletic energy of the day. It was a powerful reminder that education and sports, intellect and integrity, spirit and strength, all coexist harmoniously when guided by the right values.

From the very outset, one could sense the meticulous preparation that had gone into organising the event. The Physical Training Instructors and the team of volunteer students worked tirelessly to ensure the seamless conduct of the day’s activities. Every event, every transition, every announcement reflected teamwork and coordination. It was evident that this was not merely a one-day affair but the culmination of weeks of preparation, planning, and practice.

The “josh”, that unmistakable spirit of enthusiasm, was palpable right from the start. The students’ march past was synchronised and spirited, showcasing their discipline and pride in representing their respective houses. Their steps echoed determination, while their eyes sparkled with confidence. Each contingent marched past the saluting base with precision, and one could not help but feel a sense of pride watching these young cadets in the making.

As the events progressed, the field turned into a vibrant theatre of youthful energy. The cheers of the crowd, the encouragement from teachers, and the laughter of students created a festive atmosphere. Yet, beneath the excitement, there was an undercurrent of focus and commitment that set Mount Fort Academy apart.

Towards the end of the programme, the mass PT display was a sight to behold, scores of students moving in perfect unison, their synchronised movements reflecting the essence of teamwork. Such coordination doesn’t happen overnight. It is the result of constant guidance, patient training, and above all, a shared belief in collective excellence.

But among all the moments that morning, one stood out distinctly, a small yet powerful act that defined the spirit of the institution. During one of the races, a young child, in his eagerness to win, found himself at a point where he could have easily taken an extra step ahead into the hoopla, unnoticed by many. Instead, he paused, corrected himself, and continued running honestly, even though it cost him precious seconds.

He didn’t win the race. But in that moment, he won something far greater, the admiration of everyone watching. For me, as a soldier who has spent three decades in uniform, that act of truthfulness and integrity was more inspiring than any medal or trophy. It was a living example of character-building, the very foundation on which our future as a nation rests. My Bharat was in able hands, I murmured to myself.

That small moment encapsulated the true purpose of education, to create individuals who stand for what is right, even when no one is watching. The child’s action reflected the kind of moral grounding that cannot be taught through textbooks but must be nurtured through values, mentorship, and example.

As I looked around, I realised that this was not an isolated instance. The school’s atmosphere resonated with sincerity, commitment, and pride. The Principal’s vision, the teachers’ dedication, and the students’ earnestness came together in perfect harmony. Every teacher seemed deeply invested in shaping not just the minds but also the character of their students. The staff’s guidance was visible in the smallest gestures of discipline, students greeting visitors with folded hands, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring orderliness throughout the event.

Mount Fort Academy, in my observation, is not merely imparting education, it is building citizens. In an era where academic achievements often overshadow human values, the institution’s focus on integrity, sportsmanship, and teamwork stands out as a beacon of balanced education.

As the event concluded, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and optimism. Gratitude for being part of a morning that reaffirmed my belief in India’s youth, and optimism for the future these young minds represent. If every school in our country could instil such values, India’s next generation would not only be competent professionals but also compassionate, honest, and responsible individuals.

I left Mount Fort Academy that day with immense pride, my heart filled with admiration for the teachers and students alike. The morning had begun with the Gayatri Mantra, a prayer for wisdom and righteousness, and ended with a living example of both.

Indeed, sports build muscles, but values build nations. And at Mount Fort Academy, I witnessed both in perfect harmony.

The candidates, Egypt’s Khaled el-Enany and the Republic of Congo’s Firmin Édouard Matoko, bring diverse expertise and visions for the future of the Paris-based United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Both contenders are widely recognized for their dedication to advancing UNESCO’s mission and fostering international collaboration.

Khaled el-Enany, an Egyptian antiquities expert and former tourism and antiquities minister, is supported by the African Union and the Arab League. He brings deep experience in cultural preservation, education, and heritage management, having worked as a tour guide through Egypt’s historic sites and earned a doctorate in France.

If chosen, el-Enany is expected to prioritize UNESCO’s cultural programs, including the protection of World Heritage sites, promotion of historical education, and efforts to combat antisemitism and religious intolerance. His election would mark a historic milestone as the potential first Arab leader of UNESCO, highlighting the organization’s global inclusivity and commitment to diverse perspectives.

Firmin Édouard Matoko, a Congolese economist and longtime UNESCO official, offers decades of experience in education, peacebuilding, and international development. Having worked in Rwanda, El Salvador, Somalia, and beyond, Matoko has a proven track record in delivering practical, impactful solutions in challenging environments.

He emphasizes the importance of moving UNESCO toward technical solutions, ensuring that its programs are efficient, effective, and responsive to local and global needs. Matoko’s vision includes expanding private sector engagement, strengthening educational programs, and maintaining budgetary rigor, which will help UNESCO continue its vital work even amid financial challenges.

Both candidates face the opportunity to lead UNESCO at a pivotal time. While the recent withdrawal of United States funding presents a budgetary challenge, it also opens the door for creative solutions, stronger partnerships, and renewed international collaboration. Both el-Enany and Matoko have pledged to explore new funding avenues, including private sector partnerships and contributions from emerging economies, ensuring that UNESCO’s projects continue to flourish worldwide.

Their leadership promises innovative strategies to maintain and expand UNESCO’s influence, particularly in areas such as global education, scientific research, and cultural preservation.

UNESCO’s work has far-reaching global impact. The organization is renowned for protecting World Heritage sites, supporting education for girls, promoting Holocaust awareness, and funding scientific research in developing countries.

Previous initiatives, such as the rebuilding of Mosul after devastation by Daesh, demonstrate UNESCO’s role in restoring cultural heritage and fostering resilience. With new leadership, these programs are expected to grow, benefiting millions worldwide while encouraging cross-cultural understanding and peace.

The selection of a new director also provides a unique opportunity for modernization and reform. El-Enany’s fresh perspective outside the UN system and Matoko’s extensive institutional experience both offer complementary approaches to strengthening UNESCO’s governance, efficiency, and global reach.

By leveraging their diverse skills, UNESCO can continue to lead on critical global issues, from education and science to cultural preservation and climate awareness.

As the executive board deliberates, the world watches with optimism. The next director-general of UNESCO will have the chance to reinforce the organization’s relevance, inspire international cooperation, and ensure that its programs continue to make meaningful impacts for generations to come. With capable, dedicated leadership on the horizon, UNESCO stands ready to embrace new opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and continue its mission of promoting knowledge, culture, and peace across the globe.