KAUST and Frontiers for Young Minds (FYM) have partnered to produce child-friendly science articles in Arabic, engaging young Arabic speakers in scientific research. Their collaboration resulted in the first Arabic-original science article, "The Story of Legionella: From Surviving inside Amoebas to Causing Pneumonia", written by researchers from the University of Louisville. The article was reviewed by children, including two Saudis, with mentorship from a KAUST PhD graduate. Why it matters: This initiative promotes STEAM leadership in the region by making complex scientific concepts accessible to young Arabic-speaking readers, fostering early engagement in science.
KAUST, in partnership with UNDP Saudi Arabia and Frontiers for Young Minds, has launched "The SDG Collection" to promote scientific and sustainability literacy among children. The collection will feature articles about each of the 17 SDGs in the open-access journal Frontiers for Young Minds, with contributions from KAUST researchers. The initiative includes an interactive peer-review process involving students from local schools like The KAUST School and will be translated into Arabic. Why it matters: This project enhances accessibility to complex scientific concepts for Arabic-speaking children and supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by inspiring future generations toward sustainable development.
The KAUST School (TKS) collaborated with the KAUST Red Sea Research Center (RSRC) to provide hands-on learning experiences for TKS students at the Ibn Sina Research Station. Students measured mangrove heights, crab abundances, and soil properties, guided by RSRC researchers Joanne Ellis, Marco Fusi, and Timothy Thomson. The collaboration aims to expose students to real-world research and foster a passion for science. Why it matters: This collaboration exemplifies how research institutions in the GCC can enrich local education by sharing expertise and resources, inspiring the next generation of scientists and environmental stewards.
KAUST and Leica Microsystems have renewed their partnership for the KAUST-Leica Center of Excellence for Optical Microscopy. The partnership has supported studies such as 3D-printed microneedles and climate adaptation in date palms, utilizing Leica's LIGHTNING technology. The Center of Excellence also hosts joint technological forums and outreach activities to develop local and regional expertise. Why it matters: The renewal strengthens KAUST's research and education in optical microscopy, fostering collaboration within Saudi Arabia and the broader region to build advanced expertise in this field.
KAUST held its second annual "Science as Art" competition, sponsored by the KAUST student chapter of the Materials Research Society (MRS). Over 25 KAUST students and postdoctoral fellows participated, showcasing artistic research images from their lab work. The competition aimed to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public by presenting science from an artistic point of view. Why it matters: Such initiatives at KAUST can foster interdisciplinary thinking and enhance public engagement with science and technology in Saudi Arabia.