RIYADH: A research, development, and innovation laboratory designed to develop society and improve quality of life has been opened at a Saudi university. The inauguration ceremony took place on Wednesday at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University in Al-Kharj during a forum held under the title, “National Aspirations and Priorities for Competitiveness and Global Leadership.” Dr. Abdullah bin Nidal Adass, the university’s vice rector for graduate studies and ‎scientific research, said: “PSAU saves no efforts to keep pace with the latest developments and scientific practices in research, development, and innovation. “At PSAU, we transform research, development, and innovation into knowledge products that serve and develop the knowledge economy and national prosperity.” He noted that the university aimed to be a leading knowledge provider equipped with the best resources, in line with the goals of Vision 2030. “The first phase of the research, development, and innovation laboratory at the PSAU was inaugurated with a modern design and advanced infrastructure that enhances the localization of technology and contributes to improving the growth of the national economy based on knowledge and innovation,” Adass added. As well as sharing the results of its scientific work with relevant national authorities, the laboratory will look to build partnerships to commercialize technology while boosting the Kingdom’s competitiveness and position globally. PSAU presents an annual award for research and innovation.