KAUST ·
The KAUST community held the opening night of its 2016 Enrichment in the Fall program. The event's theme was "Food for All." Photos from the event were taken by Meres Weche. Why it matters: This community event highlights KAUST's engagement with broader social themes, though the AI relevance is low.
KAUST ·
KAUST organized a breast cancer awareness event in Thuwal on October 12, attended by over 150 women and girls from the local community, along with healthcare and education partners. The event featured educational lectures, personal stories from breast cancer survivors, and interactive sessions on early screening. KAUST's director of Social and Community Development highlighted the university's commitment to women's health and empowerment through such initiatives. Why it matters: This event demonstrates KAUST's commitment to social responsibility and community engagement by promoting health awareness and empowering women, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.
MBZUAI ·
MBZUAI Executive Program participants gathered for community-building activities on Jubail Island, including a mangrove walk and dinner. MBZUAI President Eric Xing emphasized the opportunity to build partnerships and an AI community. The event aimed to foster collaboration and understanding among participants to drive positive AI progress. Why it matters: Such initiatives can help bridge divides between organizations and facilitate the responsible development of AI in the UAE.
KAUST ·
KAUST hosted the KAUST Research Conference: Advances in Well Construction with Focus on Near-Wellbore Physics and Chemistry from November 7 to 9. The conference was co-chaired by Eric van Oort, a professor at UT Austin, and Tadeusz Patzek, director of the University’s Upstream Petroleum Engineering Research Center. Attendees included professors from the University of Queensland and UT Austin, and directors from GenesisRTS and Labyrinth Consulting Services, Inc. Why it matters: The conference facilitates international collaboration on advancements in petroleum engineering and well construction technologies, which are strategically important for Saudi Arabia.
KAUST ·
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.
KAUST ·
The Maker Space self-directed group at KAUST promotes DIY culture and provides training on using machines, tools, and materials. In March 2017, Maker Space launched the "Design for KAUST" workshop in collaboration with the University’s Residential Maintenance Department. The winning teams in the workshop received sponsorship, including a total of SAR 10,000 in prizes, a Local Impact Award and an opportunity to test the prototypes in the field. Why it matters: This initiative fosters innovation and problem-solving within the KAUST community, addressing practical challenges in daily life through technology and promoting local impact.
KAUST ·
Students from the KAUST School volunteered to assemble gift boxes for families in Thuwal as part of the "Sharing is Caring" campaign. The activity was organized to celebrate Eid. Why it matters: This highlights community engagement by a leading STEM university in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST ·
Dr. David Edwards from Harvard University spoke at KAUST about creativity in innovative communities. He believes that we are at the dawn of a grassroots renaissance in the arts, sciences and engineering. Edwards highlighted the importance of learning, experimentation, and production centers in fostering innovation. Why it matters: This talk suggests KAUST is looking to foster a cross-disciplinary culture of innovation, aligning with broader trends in AI and technology development that require diverse skill sets.