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.
In November 2017, students from KFUPM's Electrical Engineering department visited KAUST's Nanofabrication Core Lab (NCL). The students toured the campus and the KAUST Core Labs facilities and were shown processing equipment in the NCL cleanroom. Demonstrations on micro and nanofabrication techniques were also conducted. Why it matters: While dated, the article highlights the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between Saudi universities in developing future researchers in nanotechnology.
Undergraduate students from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in Chengdu visited KAUST for a one-week Spring Camp in March. The students, chosen from the top 10 percent of UESTC undergraduates, toured the CEMSE division. The UESTC students shared a presentation about their KAUST experience at the conclusion of the trip. Why it matters: The visit highlights KAUST's ongoing efforts to attract international talent and foster collaborations with leading universities.
KAUST hosted 19 female students and teachers from Thuwal intermediate school. This was part of its Young Learners Development Program (YLDP), administered by the Social Responsibility department. The visit was organized by the KAUST Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC). Why it matters: Such programs encourage local youth to pursue STEM fields and build stronger ties between KAUST and the surrounding community.
Bill Gates visited KAUST on June 24, 2014, to explore collaborative opportunities focused on reducing hunger, malnutrition, and water scarcity. He participated in a roundtable discussion on agriculture research in arid conditions and visited KAUST laboratories to observe innovative water-efficient food production systems. Gates expressed optimism that KAUST's research would benefit the world's poorest populations. Why it matters: This visit highlights the potential for partnerships between philanthropic organizations and research institutions in the GCC region to address global challenges in food and water security.
A group of KAUST students visited the National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) in Taif as part of the University's 2015 Winter Enrichment Program. The NWRC, established in 1986, focuses on preserving and reintroducing species like the houbara bustard, Arabian oryx, red-necked ostrich, and Arabian leopard. Researchers at the center track released bustards via radio transmitters, collaborating internationally to preserve their habitats. Why it matters: This highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to wildlife conservation and international collaboration in ecological research, showcasing KAUST's engagement with regional environmental initiatives.
KAUST is offering a 16-month Master of Science degree in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship (TIE). The program includes a six-month internship at a Global Technology Innovation Hub. KAUST provides access to facilities like the Prototyping and Product Development Core Lab, robotics and embedded systems labs. Why it matters: The program aims to prepare students for roles in technology startups and established organizations within the rapidly growing Saudi innovation ecosystem.
KAUST held its 7th annual Career Fair, featuring preparation workshops and an alumni panel. The panel included engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs from Saudi Aramco, SABIC, Taibah University, and Dow Chemical. Panelists emphasized pursuing passions, professional conduct, and demonstrating value to prospective employers. Why it matters: Such events help connect KAUST graduates with leading companies in Saudi Arabia, fostering local talent development and contributing to the Kingdom's knowledge economy.