Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University gave a keynote at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2022 on "resilience." He emphasized the need to end greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century through decarbonizing the energy system. Sachs highlighted the importance of science and technology solutions, especially in adapting to climate change. Why it matters: The talk underscores the importance of KAUST's research initiatives, such as the Circular Carbon Initiative, in developing technologies for carbon capture and utilization, aligning with Saudi Arabia's net-zero targets.
MIT Professor Ahmed F. Ghoniem delivered a keynote at KAUST's Spring Enrichment Program discussing clean energy solutions for future cities. He emphasized a portfolio approach including electrochemical, solar thermochemical, and plasma technologies for renewable energy storage. Ghoniem highlighted the economic opportunities arising from clean energy technology deployment, R&D, and job creation. Why it matters: The focus on renewable energy and storage aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for sustainable urban development and diversification of the energy sector.
MBZUAI President Eric Xing addressed the Class of 2025 at Space42 in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the university's growth and impact. He thanked outgoing chairman H.E. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber and welcomed new chair H.E. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak. Xing emphasized the shift of technological innovation towards the MENA region, citing the UAE-US AI partnership and the unveiling of the world’s largest AI campus outside the U.S. Why it matters: This address underscores the UAE's ambition to become a global AI hub and the pivotal role of MBZUAI in driving this transformation.
Nate Hagens from the University of Minnesota spoke at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2018 about the intersection of energy, human behavior, and economics. Hagens argued that society functions as an energy-dissipating "superorganism," with human preferences correlated with increasing energy needs. He emphasized that energy, not money, is the real capital, but global society is running out of it. Why it matters: The talk highlights the importance of viewing society through an ecological lens, particularly in the context of the GCC region's reliance on energy resources.
KAUST President Tony Chan addressed the G20 National Science Academies (S20) virtually, congratulating the leadership for progress made since the April information session. He highlighted the upcoming S20 summit at KAUST, where the global science community will present a template for a better future to G20 leaders. Chan emphasized holistic thinking and the need to consider unintended consequences in technological developments like AI and precision medicine. Why it matters: This underscores KAUST's role as a convener for international science collaboration and its focus on AI ethics and governance within the G20 framework.
Patrick van der Smagt, Director of AI Research at Volkswagen Group, discussed the use of generative machine learning models for predicting and controlling complex stochastic systems in robotics. The talk highlighted examples in robotics and beyond and addressed the challenges of achieving quality and trust in AI systems. He also mentioned his involvement in a European industry initiative on trust in AI and his membership in the AI Council of the State of Bavaria. Why it matters: Understanding control in robotics, along with trust in AI, are key issues for further development of autonomous systems, especially in industrial applications within the GCC region.
In January 2016, H.E. Abdullatif Al-Othman delivered the opening keynote at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP). Al-Othman, then governor of SAGIA, discussed Saudi Arabia's plans to move towards a knowledge economy and invest in alternative energy. He highlighted over $19 billion in sustainable energy projects and called on Saudis to contribute to the country's progress. Why it matters: This speech underscored the Kingdom's early commitment to sustainability and KAUST's role in achieving these ambitious goals.
KAUST's Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr addressed the graduating class of 2017, emphasizing their potential in science and technology. He thanked the Board of Trustees, industry partners, faculty, and staff for their support. The commencement speaker was KAUST’s former president, Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau, who was lauded for advancing KAUST's reputation and fostering collaboration. Why it matters: While routine, the remarks highlight KAUST's ongoing commitment to developing scientific talent and fostering partnerships within the Kingdom.