KAUST hosted the inaugural KAUST Saudi Leadership Program (KSLP) for Emerging Leaders from November 24-26, welcoming approximately 100 young Saudi men and women from industry, government, and academia. The program, delivered in collaboration with the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, focused on "Leading through Innovation." Participants were selected based on their high potential and track record, aiming to develop their capacity to drive change and build professional networks. Why it matters: The KSLP program strengthens KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent and contributing to the Kingdom's innovation ecosystem, preparing future leaders to shape innovation within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST held its fifth annual KAUST Saudi Leadership Program (KSLP) in collaboration with the Haas School of Business of UC Berkeley. The 2018 KSLP edition included workshops and a six-day training course for 25 Saudi female academics in leadership and deanship positions. Participants reviewed strategic planning, team management, and effective executive leadership, and attended lectures by KAUST's senior leadership. Why it matters: Such programs contribute to developing leadership capabilities within Saudi academic institutions, fostering a stronger educational ecosystem in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
KAUST's Plant Science Program hosted a two-day workshop for early-career researchers, focusing on leadership and career development. The workshop, facilitated by Dr. Paul Dalby, covered grant proposal writing, leadership skills, and career planning. Participants also learned about project management, budget development, and attracting funding from various sources. Why it matters: Such programs enhance the skills of researchers at KAUST, preparing them for leadership roles in academia and industry, and fostering a stronger research ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
MBZUAI has launched the third edition of its Executive Program (MEP), bringing together 45 global leaders, with over a third being women. The 12-week program will cover topics from AI fundamentals to ethics, and will include capstone projects addressing real-world problems with AI solutions. This edition will sponsor participants from an NGO and a startup to broaden perspectives. Why it matters: The program aims to build AI capabilities in line with UAE's vision and establish Abu Dhabi as an international AI hub, equipping leaders with skills to implement AI solutions across sectors.
KAUST hosted the fifth Rising Stars in AI Symposium, convening 25 early-career AI researchers from over 430 applicants. Discussions centered on reasoning in AI models, AI's role in addressing global challenges, embodied systems, and the necessity of trustworthy AI. Participants, including Dr. Sahar Abdelnabi from the ELLIS Institute Tübingen, emphasized the symposium's value for collaboration and identifying future AI research directions. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering emerging AI talent and addressing critical issues in the field, with a focus on AI's real-world impact and ethical considerations.
KAUST and the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) partnered to empower Saudi entrepreneurs through the 1K MILE Program and KAUST's Saudi Leadership Institute (KSLI). Held at KAUST, the program included participants selected from the 1K MILE Program honing their skills alongside peers and trainers from the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University. The "Leadership in the Fourth Industrial Revolution Workshop" featured industry leaders from top Saudi organizations, emphasizing automation and technology adoption. Why it matters: This collaboration fosters high-growth sectors and develops future leaders, aligning with Saudi Arabia's vision for economic growth and innovation in line with Vision 2030.
KAUST's Center of Excellence for Generative AI will host the fourth annual "Rising Stars in AI" Symposium from April 7-10, 2025. The symposium is designed for emerging researchers (PhD students, PostDocs, and early career faculty) to discuss AI research. Selected speakers will have their flights and hotel expenses covered. Why it matters: This event provides a platform for young AI researchers to present their work and network with peers, fostering innovation and collaboration in the field.