KAUST launched the first edible education program in Saudi Arabia at The KAUST School (TKS) in Thuwal. The Edible School Garden Project (ESGP) integrates sustainable agriculture, healthy food habits, and plant science into K-12 curricula. The pilot project aims to provide locally grown, free, nutritious lunches to all K-12 students across Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This initiative pioneers a sustainable approach to food education, aligning with Saudi Arabia's vision for a healthier, more sustainable future by engaging students in the full life cycle of food production.
KAUST held its third annual Plant Science Family Night on February 19, 2025, hosting over 1,000 attendees from the KAUST community. The event featured 25 interactive stations covering topics like composting, genetics, recycling, and irrigation. Participants included representatives from the Center of Excellence for Sustainable Food Security, the KAUST School, and other organizations. Why it matters: This event promotes STEM education and engagement with sustainability issues among families in the KAUST community.
KAUST has launched the first school-based mangrove nursery in the Middle East, located at The KAUST School (TKS) with 1,000 seedlings. TKS students collected, planted, and nurtured mangrove propagules under HSE guidance to create a living classroom. The first generation of nursery-grown mangroves is now ready for planting on the shoreline. Why it matters: The initiative reflects KAUST’s commitment to environmental awareness and supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 environmental goals.
KAUST's Center for Desert Agriculture (CDA) and The KAUST School (TKS) hosted the second annual Plant Science Family Night, featuring over 25 interactive stations. The event engaged families from the KAUST community in learning about plant biology and sustainability, covering topics like composting, genetics, and irrigation. Representatives from organizations including CDA, TKS, Terraxy, and KAUST Sustainability participated with demonstrations and discussions. Why it matters: Such outreach events are important for promoting science education and environmental stewardship within Saudi Arabia, inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators.
KAUST provided school supplies to students in the villages of Thuwal and Qadimah. This was part of the KAUST Sixth Annual Back to School Campaign held in September. The supplies were given to students in University's neighboring villages. Why it matters: This demonstrates KAUST's commitment to supporting education and community development in its surrounding areas.
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.
Edama Organic Solutions received $780,000 USD seed investment from the KAUST Innovation Fund. KAUST has also signed a contract to build a commercial-scale composting facility for Edama on its Thuwal campus, with a recycling capacity of 5,500 tons. Edama will manufacture and sell products, including Edama Desert Compost and Edama Palm Peat. Why it matters: This initiative promotes sustainable waste management practices in Saudi Arabia by turning organic waste into valuable soil improvement products tailored for desert environments.
KAUST held its 2016 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) Science Fair, featuring science shows and exhibits for children from The KAUST School (TKS) and local schools. Demonstrations included hydroponics, aquaponics, and experiments on plant salt stress. TKS students presented research on handwashing and CO2 levels. Why it matters: Such events promote STEM education and engagement within the KAUST community and surrounding areas.