KAUST's Graduate Student Council (GSC) was established in 2009 to represent the voices of students. The GSC works closely with Graduate Affairs and consists of committees focused on Academic and Research, Graduate Life, International Business Relations, and University Relations. The council aims to evolve with the university and encourages community involvement. Why it matters: The GSC provides a structured channel for KAUST students to influence university life and contribute to its development.
The KAUST Graduate Student Council (GSC) was founded in 2009 to represent student interests and amplify employment opportunities. The GSC works with KAUST administration, faculty, staff, and community partners to advocate for quality research and a nurturing academic environment. The current GSC consists of seven student positions, including president Maram AlMalki and vice president Muhammad Bukar. Why it matters: The GSC provides a crucial link between the student body and the university's leadership, ensuring student voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
KAUST held its Spring 2014 graduation ceremony on June 7, honoring 11 Ph.D. and 20 master's degree candidates from nine countries. KAUST President Jean-Lou Chameau congratulated the graduates, noting their contributions to research and KAUST's global influence. Faculty members advised the graduates to aim high and uphold KAUST's values in their future endeavors. Why it matters: While routine, the graduation highlights KAUST's ongoing role in developing scientific talent within Saudi Arabia and internationally.
KAUST celebrated its ninth Commencement ceremony on December 14, 2018, graduating 243 master's and Ph.D. candidates. The ceremony included the inauguration of KAUST’s third president, Dr. Tony Chan. KAUST also conferred its first honorary doctoral degree to HE Ali Ibrahim Al-Naimi, former chairman of the KAUST Board of Trustees. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's continued growth as a leading research university in the region, developing local talent.
KAUST held its 12th commencement ceremony, celebrating 234 Ph.D. and master's graduates. The graduating class included 93 Saudi Arabian students. The ceremony featured addresses from President Tony Chan, student speaker Dr. Antonia Sugar, and Saudi Minister of Investment Khalid A. Al-Falih. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's role in developing local talent and contributing to Saudi Arabia's research and development goals.
KAUST held its sixth annual Commencement ceremony on December 18, 2015, celebrating 100 master’s degree and 71 Ph.D. graduates. President Jean-Lou Chameau encouraged graduates to embrace uncertainty and explore uncharted territory in their future endeavors. Student speaker Mohammed Alnassar shared his personal journey of joining KAUST and emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities and persevering through challenges. Why it matters: While not directly AI-related, the ongoing development of KAUST's graduating classes contributes to the growth of the Saudi tech talent pool, which is relevant for the region's AI ecosystem.
KAUST held its Spring Graduation Luncheon on June 1, celebrating new master's and Ph.D. graduates. President Jean-Lou Chameau spoke at the event, which included a photo session with faculty and administration. The event recognized the achievements of the graduating students. Why it matters: Celebrations like these highlight KAUST's role in developing Saudi Arabia's STEM talent pool.
KAUST welcomed 250 new master’s and Ph.D. students at its sixth annual Convocation on August 25. Speakers emphasized KAUST's international environment and the opportunities for students to grow both academically and personally. Wolfgang Heidrich, Director of KAUST’s Visual Computing Center, advised students to explore, find their passion, aim high, work hard, and manage their time. Why it matters: The annual convocation highlights KAUST's continued growth as a global research university and its focus on attracting international talent to contribute to science and technology in Saudi Arabia.