RIYADH: A new training program, “Building the Capacity of Imams and Preachers,” has been launched in Moroni, Comoros, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

Organized by the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition, the initiative is part of the organization’s broader intellectual strategy.

Comoros Defense Minister Youssoufa Mohamed Ali reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the coalition in combating extremism and eradicating terrorism.

He highlighted the coalition’s key role, particularly its focus on intellectual engagement, and said the program’s launch was a significant step forward.

Maj. Gen. Mohammed Al-Moghedi, the coalition’s secretary-general from Saudi Arabia, said the initiative was part of a wider effort involving 15 strategic programs across four areas — intellectual development, media, counter-terrorism financing and military operations.

Recently, the coalition held specialized training on combating terrorist financing in Bamako, Mali. The program aimed to strengthen national capacity to counter terrorist financing and money laundering.

RIYADH: The Music Commission has launched the Kingdom’s first summer piano program, in collaboration with renowned Chinese pianist Lang Lang, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Set to take place at the Saudi Music Hub in Riyadh, the month-long program begins on June 29 and will host more than 30 students from across Saudi Arabia.

It aims to enhance participants’ technical and artistic skills through a comprehensive curriculum, including individual lessons, group classes, hands-on training, and live interactive sessions — all led by distinguished academics and music professionals.

Paul Pacifico, CEO of the commission, said: “This initiative marks a bold new chapter in the evolution of music education in the Kingdom. By partnering with world-class international educators we are not only nurturing the next generation of Saudi talent but also expanding the horizons of our cultural ambitions.”

The program represents a major step in transforming music education in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the commission’s vision to enrich artistic learning and build a strong national talent ecosystem, the SPA added.