Umm Al-Qura University, represented by the Administration of Voluntary Work and Social Responsibility, provided a training program for volunteers registered in the “Safe Return” community campaign. The program was held under the auspices of the UQU President, Prof. Moaddi bin Muhammad Aal Madh-hab, in cooperation with the relevant authorities.

The aim of the program was to qualify the volunteers participating in the volunteer opportunities accompanying the campaign. This was achieved by identifying the development aspects in creating an appropriate academic and professional environment for employees and students, finding ways to prevent and limit the spread of infection, and identifying the role of volunteers working in this initiative and the plans they prepare. The program also provided health counseling and introductory lectures that accompanied the awareness corners and field visits inside and outside the university.

The UQU President, Prof. Moaddi bin Muhammad Aal Madh-hab, stressed the need for university employees to abide by the regulations and instructions in force to prevent coronavirus. He pointed out that attendance at the university's premises will contribute to increasing students' knowledge through their participation in enrichment activities and programs.

The University President said: "Volunteer work is a societal culture that the university seeks to activate with training and qualification plans for employees participating in volunteer work. This is with the aim of serving the Makkan community in cooperation with the competent authorities."

On his part, the Vice President for Development and Community Service, Dr. Ali Al-Sha`iri, stated that the launch of the campaign coincides with the university’s comprehensive plan to receive students and return to in-person study, in order to ensure a stimulating, attractive, healthy and safe learning environment for students and employees. He indicated that the number of volunteers registered in the volunteer opportunities amounted to about 1277 volunteers, who underwent an integrated professional development program to ensure the quality of their participation in the field of volunteer work.

In his speech, the Vice President for Educational Affairs, Dr. Amer Al-Zaidi, appreciated the concerted efforts of the university’s entities and the harnessing of their capabilities to provide the best services that are compatible with its comprehensive plan towards achieving a safe return. This will serve the current needs inside the UQU campuses and ensure the safety, quality and organization of work. He noted the role of the university's employees in activating the safe return plan and in facilitating the opportunity for students to undertake their studies in person at the university while maintaining health and occupational safety.

The General Supervisor of the Department of Voluntary Work and Social Responsibility, Dr. Sumayyah Sharaf, stated that the campaign focuses on providing health education and academic and occupational safety in the university premises and on applying the precautionary and preventive measures against coronavirus and various epidemics. In addition, it raises awareness about the concept of community immunity, contributing to achieving it by raising awareness of the importance of taking the vaccine, and encourages community participation with the relevant authorities.