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 annual academic Convocation ceremony via Zoom, with speeches from President Tony Chan, student Nawaf Al-Ghamdi, alumnus Wail Bamhair, and faculty member Mohamed-Slim Alouini. Speakers shared advice on embracing new experiences, collaboration, teaching, and perseverance. Alouini encouraged students to build a strong competitive record for future job opportunities despite uncertainties from the COVID-19 pandemic. Why it matters: While routine, the event underscores KAUST's ongoing commitment to fostering academic excellence and preparing students for future challenges in science and technology.
Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) emphasizes campus life to support its growing international student population. The Masdar City campus provides living quarters, communal spaces, and services for student wellbeing. MBZUAI offers advanced AI labs with nearly 1,000 Nvidia GPU servers and high-performance computing resources, along with technology-enhanced classrooms and a well-stocked library. Why it matters: This focus on comprehensive campus resources signals MBZUAI's commitment to attracting and supporting top AI talent in the UAE.
KAUST's Graduate Student Council (GSC) was established in 2009 to represent the voices of students. The GSC works closely with Graduate Affairs and consists of committees focused on Academic and Research, Graduate Life, International Business Relations, and University Relations. The council aims to evolve with the university and encourages community involvement. Why it matters: The GSC provides a structured channel for KAUST students to influence university life and contribute to its development.
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.
Students from the KAUST School volunteered to assemble gift boxes for families in Thuwal as part of the "Sharing is Caring" campaign. The activity was organized to celebrate Eid. Why it matters: This highlights community engagement by a leading STEM university in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST welcomed 250 new master’s and Ph.D. students at its sixth annual Convocation on August 25. Speakers emphasized KAUST's international environment and the opportunities for students to grow both academically and personally. Wolfgang Heidrich, Director of KAUST’s Visual Computing Center, advised students to explore, find their passion, aim high, work hard, and manage their time. Why it matters: The annual convocation highlights KAUST's continued growth as a global research university and its focus on attracting international talent to contribute to science and technology in Saudi Arabia.
Todd Nims, a filmmaker born in Saudi Arabia, premiered his film "Joud" at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. The film, set in Saudi Arabia, explores the cycle of life in reverse and the meaning of "Joud" (generosity in the face of scarcity). Nims describes Saudi Arabia as a "magical place" due to its rich storytelling tradition. Why it matters: The article highlights KAUST's role in showcasing cultural works and supporting Saudi artists, though the AI relevance is limited.