Students and teachers from Thuwal schools visited KAUST for computer-oriented activities on February 7. The activities included a practical computer coding lesson inspired by "Hour of Code," where participants used Mac computers to work through an online tutorial. Students and teachers also toured the supercomputing facilities in the KAUST Core Labs led by Bilel Hadri of the ECRC. Why it matters: Such outreach programs help promote STEM education and engagement with advanced computing resources among local students.
The UAE's National Programme for Coders will train 20,000 students in coding across eight universities, including MBZUAI and Khalifa University. The program includes 500 training opportunities at local and international companies. Amazon, Huawei, and IBM will launch digital libraries providing resources on AI, data science, and other technologies. Why it matters: This initiative aims to bolster the UAE's AI talent pool and enhance graduates' competitiveness in the job market through practical coding skills.
KAUST students participated in a "Design and Build Your Own Robot" workshop as part of the University's 2016 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP). Students were divided into teams to design, fabricate, and test robotic systems, covering mechanical design, electronics development, and embedded programming. The seven robots developed were then showcased in a competitive race during the annual WEP Science Fair. Why it matters: This hands-on experience in robotics provides students with practical skills and fosters interest in STEM fields, contributing to the development of a skilled workforce in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST hosted the first SAP Mobile Hackathon on its campus from February 7-9, with 38 developers and designers participating. The hackathon focused on creating mobile apps for future smart cities and was the result of a partnership between SAP, KAUST Innovation and Economic Development, KAUST IT, and the KAUST Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering division. Approximately 55% of the participants were women. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering innovation and developing talent in Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas like software development and AI, to support the growth of smart cities in the region.
KAUST has opened registration for its Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2015, which will run from January 11-22. The program features over 100 events centered around the International Year of Light, robotics, and big data. WEP 2015 includes keynote lectures, Saudi cultural events, art workshops, recreational activities, and a film festival. Why it matters: Such programs foster community engagement and promote interdisciplinary knowledge sharing within KAUST.
KAUST held an open day on December 3, 2015, to celebrate the International Year of Light. The event showcased technological developments in light research, especially photonics and LED-based technologies. Exhibits and demonstrations were provided by researchers from KAUST's CEMSE and PSE divisions, under the direction of Professor Boon Ooi. Why it matters: The event promoted understanding of achievements in light research and its applications in various sectors like communications, medicine, and energy.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2024 focused on the theme "Digital Adventure – ride to the future," featuring lectures and activities related to machine learning, AI, and the future of technology. Speakers covered topics from quantum computing and robotics to smart cities and sustainable economies. Rick Fox discussed his company Partanna's work on revolutionizing concrete production with KAUST's Carlos Duarte as an advisor. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's role in fostering discussions around cutting-edge technologies and their impact on various sectors within the Kingdom and globally.
Entrepreneur Alexandru Ionut Budisteanu spoke at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) about pursuing one's passion to achieve their dreams. Budisteanu shared his journey of creating video games and building an autonomous self-driving car prototype. He emphasized the importance of finding a job or activity that one loves and working with passion. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's efforts to host inspiring speakers and promote entrepreneurship among students.