KUWAIT CITY, Nov 18:  The Ministry of Oil announced its participation in the 47th Kuwait International Book Fair 2024, set to open on Wednesday, under the slogan “The World in a Book.” The event, featuring 544 publishing houses from 31 Arab and foreign countries, will run until November 30.

Director of Public Relations and Media at the Ministry, Sheikha Tamader Khaled Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, stated that the ministry will display an array of qualitative publications in both paper and electronic formats, focusing on the history and development of Kuwait's oil industry. She highlighted that the ministry will unveil modern digital initiatives aimed at fostering cultural awareness about the oil sector and documenting its achievements.

As part of its offerings, the ministry will introduce a series of educational videos titled The Story of Oil. These videos, tailored for students across primary, intermediate, and secondary levels, illustrate the history of oil exploration in Kuwait, from the discovery and early efforts in exploration to the first crude oil export in 1946. The videos also detail stages of production, refining, and export, underscoring Kuwait’s status as a leading oil-exporting nation.

Sheikha Tamader noted that advanced animation techniques were employed to make the content engaging and interactive for young audiences. The initiative aligns with the ministry’s strategy to enhance student awareness of oil's pivotal role in Kuwait’s economy and its contributions to sustainable development.

In addition, the ministry will showcase innovative digital projects at its pavilion, including the virtual electronic broadcaster Nouf, which integrates technology into media work. Visitors can experience a smart robot that enables access to the ministry’s electronic publications and magazines via QR codes, offering a modern and interactive experience.

The Kuwait International Book Fair will also feature a cultural program with three key platforms. Assistant Secretary-General for the Culture Sector at the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters, Aisha Al-Mahmoud, revealed that these platforms include the “Cultural Corridor” with youth-oriented activities, the “Cultural Café” hosting events in collaboration with various institutions, and a new “Writer and Book” corner for direct engagement between readers and authors.

The fair will honor Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghunaim as the personality of the year and host over 90 activities, including celebrations of Kuwaiti and Arab cultural figures. The Children’s Culture Pavilion will provide morning and evening activities.

Jordanian Minister of Culture Mustafa Al-Rawashdeh expressed gratitude to Kuwait for selecting Jordan as the guest of honor, praising Kuwait’s role as a beacon for Arab intellectuals through its pioneering publishing efforts.

The Kuwait International Book Fair continues to serve as a vital cultural platform, uniting thinkers, writers, and creators under one roof while promoting the country's rich intellectual heritage.