The Saudi CIFAL Center conducted the sixteenth meeting under the title: Volunteering: The Power of Change and Building a Sustainable Future". The meeting was held via video conference with the participation of an elite group of academics, advocates, and members of development institutions. The meeting was delivered by Eng. Muteb Al-Maliki (Advisor of the National Standard for Activating Volunteering in the Private Sector) and was moderated by Mr. Khaled Al-Otaibi (Expert in Applications of Sustainable Development Goals).
Eng. Al-Maliki began the meeting by highlighting that the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, embodied the spirit of volunteer work through his participation in building the Prophet's Mosque and his care for the needy, which enhanced the values of solidarity and teamwork.
He pointed out that Islamic law focused on volunteer work as a central value for preserving resources and promoting justice and equality, which is in line with the goals of sustainable development.
Eng. Al-Maliki explained that volunteer work includes 3 levels based on the national standard, and they are: general volunteering, skilled volunteering, and professional volunteering.
These levels contribute significantly to achieving sustainable development by enhancing community participation, supporting development initiatives, and implementing sustainable projects that leave a positive impact on various vital sectors.
The volunteer work platform was also highlighted as a pioneering model in automating volunteer work. The platform allows volunteers to register, organize volunteer opportunities, and measure their impact.
Eng. Al-Maliki concluded the meeting by emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness and promoting community responsibility through volunteer initiatives, pointing out that volunteering is a soft power that brings about positive change for individuals and society.