In a significant stride towards preserving Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage, the Ministry of Culture has completed the screening and evaluation phase for the Saudi Coffee Research grant. Launched in collaboration with the Saudi Coffee Company, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, this initiative seeks to propel research focusing on Saudi coffee as an intangible cultural heritage
The grant, an integral part of the "2022, The Year of Saudi Coffee" initiative, is designed to foster the development of the coffee industry as a national cultural product. It targets researchers and specialists from diverse fields who are passionate about studying various facets of coffee.
The Ministry of Culture has given the green light to 20 research titles, showcasing the diverse talent and global interest in understanding the cultural and historical dimensions of Saudi coffee. Researchers whose proposals have been selected will receive both financial and scholarly support throughout the research process, with a commitment extending to the publication of scientific papers.
The grant encompasses three primary tracks to guide the research efforts:
Focus on Coffee in the Arabian Peninsula: This track encourages researchers to delve into the historical origins, manufacturing processes, and proliferation of coffee within the Kingdom. The aim is to unravel the intricate tapestry of Saudi Arabia's connection with coffee, from its roots to the contemporary coffee culture.
Explore Intangible Cultural Heritage: Researchers are tasked with examining the associated knowledge, skills, social traditions, practices, and cultural handicrafts that form the intangible cultural heritage surrounding Saudi coffee. This holistic approach aims to preserve and celebrate the multifaceted aspects of the nation's coffee culture.
Bolster Local Content and Economy: The grant seeks to support Saudi coffee production, enhance its competitiveness, and contribute to the transformation of the Saudi economy into a sustainable model. By focusing on local content and economic growth, the initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 programs.
In collaboration with the Culinary Arts Commission, the initiative is set to comprehensively study the Saudi coffee market. Beyond economic considerations, the overarching goals include the preservation of national cultural heritage and values, the highlighting of cultural significance associated with Saudi coffee, the promotion of national identity, and the global dissemination of Saudi coffee culture.
This ambitious initiative reflects the commitment of the Ministry of Culture and its partners to propel Saudi Arabia onto the global stage as a guardian of cultural heritage, while simultaneously fostering economic sustainability and promoting a sense of national identity. The approved research titles signal the beginning of a new chapter in the exploration and celebration of Saudi Arabia's rich coffee heritage.
