KAUST held an alumni celebration in collaboration with Saudi Aramco to honor alumni achievements. Saudi Aramco emphasized its commitment to talent development as the largest employer of KAUST alumni. Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau encouraged alumni to contribute to society and advance KAUST as a hub of education and discovery. Why it matters: This event strengthens ties between KAUST and Saudi Aramco, highlighting KAUST's role in developing talent for the Kingdom's key industries.
The KAUST Saudi Arabian Alumni Chapter met to discuss future plans, with a focus on increasing engagement and creating a 'Community for Life'. The chapter caters to M.S. and Ph.D. graduates living and working in Saudi Arabia, representing around 51% of the total alumni. Key initiatives include leveraging the online network Rapport and organizing on-campus and regional meetings. Why it matters: Strengthening alumni networks is crucial for KAUST's long-term growth and influence within Saudi Arabia's evolving research and technology landscape.
KAUST's Saudi Arabia Alumni Chapter held its first reunion on November 27, 2015, featuring seminars, discussions, and recreational activities. The event included a panel discussion on work experiences, a talk on impactful living, and a discussion on volunteer opportunities. KAUST's VP for Academic Affairs, James Calvin, noted the important role of alumni in building the university's global reputation during the dinner reception. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's efforts to maintain strong connections with its alumni network within Saudi Arabia, fostering ongoing engagement and contributions to the Kingdom's development.
KAUST President Jean-Lou Chameau hosted a gathering of KAUST alumni in Beijing in May 2014, marking the first formal alumni event outside of Saudi Arabia. The event included graduates, former post-docs, and incoming Chinese students. KAUST plans to form a working group to establish an alumni chapter in China. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's growing international network and its commitment to fostering relationships with alumni in key regions, especially China.
The Mexican Embassy in Riyadh announced the creation of the first Saudi Arabian chapter of the Mexican Global Network (RedGlobalMX-Saudi Arabia). The chapter aims to recognize the contributions of the Mexican community in Saudi Arabia and foster collaboration between the two countries. KAUST alumni form a substantial part of the chapter's core membership, including those working at Saudi Aramco and Dow Chemical. Why it matters: This initiative strengthens ties between Saudi Arabia and Mexico, potentially opening doors for further academic and industrial collaborations, especially in fields where KAUST has expertise.