KAUST is developing a phased reopening plan in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan addresses the gradual return of operations, including laboratories, innovation ecosystem, students, faculty, and staff. It aims to balance community protection with minimizing disruption, focusing on a phased approach to a "new normal." Why it matters: This signals a move towards resuming research activities and on-site work at a leading Saudi research institution, impacting the pace of AI and technology development in the Kingdom.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2026, themed "Adaptation: Reshaping for a Fluctuating Future," convened students and researchers to explore adaptation through science and community. Speakers emphasized KAUST's role in preparing Saudi Arabia for change and the importance of aligning research with national goals. The program highlighted the Nabataean Traverse Expedition, a multidisciplinary scientific expedition from Petra to AlUla, involving KAUST's Professor Alexandre Rosado. Why it matters: The WEP program underscores KAUST's commitment to fostering innovation and preparing future leaders to address complex challenges facing Saudi Arabia and the world.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended a Ramadan lecture on solving global challenges through innovation, presented by Edward Jung. The lecture featured pre-recorded contributions from MBZUAI Chairman H.E. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Dubai Future Foundation CEO Khalfan Belhoul, and MBZUAI President Professor Eric Xing, who discussed the UAE's investments in technology and innovation. Jung emphasized the need for a new model of innovation to address global challenges such as climate change and efficient cities. Why it matters: The lecture highlights the UAE's focus on utilizing technology and innovation to address critical global issues, with MBZUAI playing a central role in advancing these efforts.
PepsiCo's AMESA CEO, Eugene Willemsen, spoke at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2022 about sustainability and resilience. He highlighted the importance of organizations addressing climate change and resource emergencies through innovative synergies. Willemsen emphasized PepsiCo's Pep+ initiative, focusing on positive agriculture, value chain, and choices, to transform the food system. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's role in convening global leaders to discuss sustainability challenges relevant to the Middle East, particularly in food and agriculture.
Carlos Duarte, a professor of Marine Science at KAUST, discusses climate change adaptation and mitigation. He was interviewed outside the KAUST Museum of Science and Technology. The interview is part of a Frontiers Research Topic on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's focus on addressing climate change through scientific research and its engagement with international platforms like Frontiers.