Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission in Abha concludes the Little Explorer initiative

The Little Explorer project, a nationwide programme created to spark young people's curiosity and enthusiasm in the region's heritage and archaeological findings, was just completed by Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission in Abha. The programme, which is being hosted all around Saudi Arabia, intends to teach kids about antiquities and study the kingdom's history and its cultures in a lighthearted and educational way. In order to create a generation that appreciates history and involves them in archaeological excavations, the programme targets young children and youth in all parts of the Kingdom.

The panel also stated that there are two key stages to the operations. The first stage, which caters to kids between the ages of six and twelve, is hosted in ten different commercial locations around the Kingdom. It includes a variety of activities, including instruction on how to find, extract, record, and restore antiquities as well as how to preserve archaeological collections using sped-up scientific techniques, all while providing amusement. It attempts to foster a bond between kids and artefacts, connect them to their past, and foster a sense of cooperation.

The commission said that youngsters witness a scene in the "Once Upon a Time" section that demystifies the field of archaeology and highlights the importance of past civilizations and their priceless cultural legacy. Children are also reminded of the value of the ancient sites in the Kingdom.

Children may explore a three-dimensional map of the Kingdom in the "Interactive Glasses" section using virtual reality goggles while learning about 10 key archaeological sites. They may study about the internal organisation of land layers in the "Earth Layers" area. To better comprehend the excavation procedure, they might imitate the strata of the ground using sand and clay. 

Children may practise archaeological excavation in the "Excavation Simulation" area at digital dig sites that replicate actual locations around the Kingdom. Children learn how to find and collect antiquities using specialised field instruments through the simulation. They may learn how to maintain, restore, transport, and protect artefacts in the "Registration of Antiquities" section. Children can ask an experienced archaeologist any questions they may have in the "Satisfy Your Curiosity about Antiquities" area. The kids next go to the area where they may "Write Your Name in Musnad Script" to learn about historic writing systems. For the participants, a photo opportunity serves as a reminder of the day.

According to the commission, the second phase of the activities, which is aimed at children between the ages of 13 and 17, entails seven school excursions to six archaeological sites around the Kingdom. The students are given an overview of the history of each site, its archaeological value, and the most significant events that happened there by an archaeological specialist. Students' sense of national belonging is heightened by learning about the history and archaeological significance of the Kingdom.

The programme is a component of the commission's initiatives to foster children's sense of creativity, foster their sense of connection to their country of origin, and raise their understanding of cultural heritage.

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