KUWAIT: An intensive eight-day video game programming bootcamp has helped strengthen the presence of Kuwaiti youth in the global gaming industry, the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters said Saturday. “The success of the intensive programming bootcamp in electronic game development represents an important milestone in promoting the presence of Kuwaiti youth in this promising global industry,” said Omaima Al-Saad, founder and director of the council’s gaming programs, during the closing ceremony.
Eighty-five participants took part in the bootcamp, training in areas including game development and design, music creation, and revenue strategies under the supervision of a team of specialists and industry experts. Al-Saad said: “We are proud of what we have achieved in this edition. We witnessed the passion and creativity of Kuwaiti youth in electronic game development. This success will be the starting point for more advanced courses in the future, with broader programs and newer tools that keep pace with global changes in this sector.”
Omaima Al-Saad
The council emphasized that video games and digital sports are a modern form of culture and art reflecting the spirit of the times. Al-Saad added that investing in these fields strengthens the creative economy and provides promising opportunities for Kuwaiti youth both locally and internationally.
In recent years, the council has organized specialized events to nurture young talent and develop their skills, including two editions of the “Electronic Games Challenge.” “The council gathered dozens of youth teams in this challenge, competing to design and develop innovative games, providing them with a platform to showcase their creative energy and encourage teamwork and innovative thinking,” Al-Saad said. “This challenge has been an important source for discovering new talent capable of competing regionally and globally.”
Earlier this month, the Council hosted the ‘Made in Kuwait’ video games expo at The Avenues mall, showcasing games developed by Kuwaiti youth that reflect Arab identity and traditional values. Visitors had the opportunity to try out the games and interact with their developers.
The programming bootcamp is part of the Cultural Summer 17 festival, which offers a range of cultural, artistic, and entertainment programs for various age groups, giving young people opportunities to showcase and develop their talents in innovative ways. — KUNA