Dr. Laila Nehme, a French archaeologist from CNRS, visited KAUST as part of the Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) to discuss her work on Mada’in Saleh, also known as Al-Hijr or Hegra. Nehme co-directs the Saudi-French Archaeological Project and specializes in Nabatean epigraphy, studying the daily life of the ancient Nabateans through unearthed remains. Her team, working with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, is beginning its third four-year program to study the site. Why it matters: The research sheds light on the historical significance of Mada’in Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Nabatean civilization's southernmost settlement, enhancing our understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage.
KAUST's Alumni Affairs Office and the 2015 WEP team hosted a lecture series featuring four KAUST alumni. The alumni, from CERN, UC Berkeley, MIT, and a startup in Mexico City, shared their work in physics, robotics, oceanography, and entrepreneurship. Dean Brian Moran and Professor David Keyes highlighted the alumni's achievements and contributions. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's role in fostering global talent and highlights the diverse career paths of its graduates.
A KAUST student reflects on the Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2015, highlighting talks from Laila Nahme on Nabataean culture, Guillaume Néry on deep-sea experiences, and Anthony Readhead on space exploration. The student also enjoyed Anette Hosoi's talk on nature-inspired robots and Michael Martin's presentation on Earth's deserts. Other notable events included Opera Explained, Conduct Us, An Evening of Improvisation, and a science fair. Why it matters: KAUST's WEP fosters interdisciplinary learning and engagement with diverse topics, enriching the academic experience for students and the community.
French freediving champion Guillaume Néry spoke at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) about pushing human limits underwater. Néry, who beat the world record three times, can dive to a depth of 125 meters while holding his breath for up to seven minutes and forty-two seconds. He recounted discovering his calling at age 15 and later becoming world champion in 2011. Why it matters: This talk highlights KAUST's commitment to showcasing diverse achievements and explorations of human potential, even outside traditional scientific fields.
KAUST will host a Modern Saudi Art Exhibit from Arabian Wings (Jan 11-15), an Al-Balad 24 Photography Exhibition featuring work by Marina Kochetyga and Andrea Bachofen (Jan 11-16), and an East African Tingatinga art exhibition (Jan 18-24). The Al-Balad exhibit includes a video by Dr. Lorenzo Pareschi documenting a fire in the historic district. Why it matters: These art exhibits expose the KAUST community to diverse artistic styles and cultural perspectives, fostering cross-cultural understanding.
KAUST encouraged attendees of the 2015 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #wep2015. The university provided tips for participants to effectively use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram during the event. KAUST emphasized responsible sharing and respect for the university's multicultural community when posting. Why it matters: This initiative aimed to amplify the reach of WEP's activities and engage a broader audience in KAUST's community and knowledge-sharing efforts.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2015 featured seminars, community events, guest speakers, and interactive exhibits. The program included 112 speakers from various regions and events like BELLA GAIA, a film festival, and photography exhibits. Lectures covered topics like Tingatinga painting and gold exploration in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: Such programs foster knowledge exchange and cultural enrichment within the KAUST community and beyond.
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.