KAUST held its 2025 KGSP Convocation in Chicago under the patronage of Princess Reema Bandar Al Saud, gathering 375 participants from 47 US universities. KAUST President Sir Edward Byrne AC introduced "KGSP 2.0", an enhanced version of the program providing comprehensive support to Saudi scholars. The updated program will operate under the KAUST Academy, offering early-stage training, mentoring, and industry connections. Why it matters: KGSP 2.0 represents a significant investment in Saudi talent development and aims to strengthen KAUST's role in cultivating future leaders in science and technology.
KAUST has launched the Early Career Accelerator Program (ECAP) for Women in Cybersecurity to promote gender diversity in Saudi Arabia's cybersecurity workforce. The program provides training to Saudi female graduates in security, governance, risk, and compliance, in collaboration with RSA Security LLC. The inaugural program included four graduates from Prince Mugrin University who received training in integrated risk management and will receive ongoing mentoring from KAUST and RSA. Why it matters: This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Cybersecurity Authority’s efforts to increase female participation in cybersecurity, addressing the global skills gap and strengthening the Kingdom's cyber defenses.
KAUST's online alumni community, Rapport, has attracted nearly 1,000 members since its launch in 2017. The platform, accessible via website and mobile app, allows alumni to connect with each other, access career information, and participate in group discussions. Rapport aims to foster mentoring and networking opportunities for students and alumni. Why it matters: Platforms like Rapport can play an important role in retaining talent and expertise within the Kingdom, which supports the broader goals of Vision 2030.
KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) featured a significant number of female speakers, highlighting the growing role of women in STEM. Events like "The Rise of Nanomachines" and "Women in STEM" provided platforms for female scientists to share their work and experiences. A "Speed Mentoring" session facilitated mentor-mentee relationships between graduate students and women in STEM at KAUST. Why it matters: Such initiatives help to foster a supportive environment for women in science and engineering within Saudi Arabia's leading research university.
KAUST has launched REVelate, a corporate innovation program aimed at mid and senior management of Saudi-based companies. The four-month program includes lectures, workshops, and mentoring to develop projects important to the participating companies. It is designed to foster an 'intrapreneurship' culture and enhance the innovation capacity of KAUST industry partners. Why it matters: This initiative addresses a critical need for corporate innovation methodologies in Saudi Arabia, potentially boosting the performance and competitiveness of local companies.