KUWAIT: The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) announced on Monday the opening of nominations for the State Creativity Award in the fields of arts, literature, and the humanities, with submissions accepted through the end of September. Speaking at a press conference marking the occasion, Dr Mohammad Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the Council, said the award has been renamed to the State Creativity Award to reflect a broader and deeper concept of creativity, rather than mere encouragement. The award was previously known as the State Appreciation and Encouragement Award or the State Incentive Award.
Al-Jassar explained that the renaming coincides with Kuwait’s designation as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025, a change approved by the Council of Ministers in response to a formal request from NCCAL. He noted that the award is granted to outstanding creative works produced by Kuwaiti nationals, in accordance with the award’s regulations and eligibility criteria. The award categories, nomination procedures, and selection methods are outlined in the official guidelines.
Aisha Al-Mahmoud
Aisha Al-Mahmoud, Assistant Secretary-General for the Culture Sector, affirmed Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to supporting creative citizens across all cultural fields, stating it stems from “a firm belief in the importance of human development in creative and cultural areas.” Al-Mahmoud pointed out that Article 14 of the Kuwaiti Constitution stipulates that “the State shall sponsor sciences, literature, and the arts and encourage scientific research.” She added that this constitutional principle was reflected in the Amiri Decree issued in July 1973, which established the National Council to oversee the country’s cultural and artistic affairs.—KUNA
She highlighted that Kuwait’s journey in supporting creativity was further solidified by the establishment of the State Incentive Award in 1988 by Cabinet decision, aimed at enriching cultural life and promoting intellectual and artistic output. Al-Mahmoud said the name change to State Creativity Award better reflects the award’s true purpose—honoring creative individuals and their intellectual contributions, without implying that the award targets a specific age group.
She added that a ministerial decision has been issued outlining the new criteria and regulations governing the award, emphasizing the updated concept and core standards of creativity. A high-level committee will soon be formed to oversee the award, comprised of prominent figures from Kuwait’s cultural and intellectual community. Detailed eligibility conditions and nomination procedures will be announced through the council’s official social media channels. — KUNA
