JEDDAH: The Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association has enlisted more than 220 members from the Saudi Girl Scout Committee to assist pilgrims during this year’s Hajj season. This initiative is part of the public service camps organized by the association in Makkah, Madinah and the holy sites. Abdulrahman Al-Mudaires, deputy chairman of the association, emphasized its commitment to increasing the participation of girl scouts in such camps. “The aim is to empower young girls, harness their energies and abilities, and broaden their opportunities for volunteer work,” he said. The participation of Saudi girls in national development has been steadily growing, with female youth now playing pivotal roles in various sectors, including volunteering and community service. This initiative is a step toward ensuring equal opportunities for both male and female youth in Saudi society, Al-Mudaires said. Commending the efforts of Princess Sama bint Faisal bin Abdullah, chairwoman of the Saudi Girl Scout Committee, Al-Mudaires emphasized the crucial role of girl scouts in the progress and development of the country. “Princess Sama’s dedication to ensuring the presence of girl scouts in diverse volunteer activities has proven instrumental in their achievements and contributions,” he said. In the 2023 Hajj season, the public service camps of the Saudi Arabian Scout Association included the participation of 150 girls from the Saudi Girl Scouts Committee, who volunteered to service pilgrims at King Faisal Hospital in Makkah, and in guiding pilgrims in cooperation with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The initiative reflects the commitment to empower and support Saudi girls, enabling them to excel and contribute meaningfully to society.