The Role of Saudi Universities in Developing 21st Century Skills among Students and a Proposed Framework for Enhancement in Light of Islamic Education Objectives

This study aimed to uncover the current role of Saudi universities in developing 21st-century skills among their students and to propose a framework for enhancement in accordance with the objectives of Islamic education. To achieve this goal, a descriptive survey methodology was employed, utilizing a questionnaire for data collection. The study population included all male faculty members in Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Umm Al-Qura University, King Faisal University, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Hail University, totaling 9,431 individuals. A simple random sample of 374 members was selected. The results indicated that the current role of Saudi universities in developing 21st-century skills among students was most prominent in the "Faculty Members' Role," with notable items such as the use of technology in the teaching and learning process and encouraging students to excel in their work. The status-quo related to "Student Activities" followed, emphasizing that student activities help unleash students' potentials and creativity, confirming a sense of loyalty and belonging among students. The status-quo related to "Coursework" was also highlighted, stating that courses include activities that require the use of modern technology, fostering positive attitudes towards collaborative work among students. Based on these findings, the study proposed a framework for the development of the role of Saudi universities in nurturing 21st-century skills among students in the light of Islamic education objectives.
 
Keywords:
21st Century Skills, Proposed Framework, Islamic Education.