AUK Launches Academic Year 2025–26 with Orientations, State of the University Address, and Faculty Kickoff

AUK has officially launched the 2025–26 academic year with comprehensive orientation programs for its faculty and staff, alongside President Dr. Rawda Awwad’s annual State of the University Address. Together, these events set a clear direction for the year ahead, underscoring AUK’s role as Kuwait’s only liberal arts university and its mission to advance Kuwait Vision 2035. 

The Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees, Sheikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment, “As we move forward into a new academic year, I extend my best wishes to the AUK community. Our shared commitment to growth and excellence in learning and leadership is what defines this institution. The Board remains steadfast in supporting AUK’s mission as Kuwait’s liberal arts institution, advancing knowledge, opportunity, and leadership for the nation’s future.” 

President Awwad opened the orientation with a powerful address, highlighting AUK’s distinctive place in Kuwait’s higher education landscape. “Our path forward is clear: to serve Kuwait by standing as its liberal arts university, distinctive, resilient, and aligned with national priorities. When students graduate from AUK, I want them to say three things: I was known there. I learned well there. I grew up there. That is the promise of a liberal arts education, and that is the measure of our mission,” she said. 

Also welcoming the employees back to campus and providing university updates, Paul Bassil, executive director of human capital and facilities management said, “We are excited to welcome our employees back and celebrate the outstanding results from our Great Place to Work recognition. This achievement reflects the culture of trust, collaboration, and care that our people have built together. Looking ahead, we are committed to strengthening this foundation and taking bold steps on our journey to becoming the employer of choice—where every employee feels valued, empowered, and inspired to thrive.” 

In parallel, each of the three colleges—Arts & Sciences, Business & Economics, and Engineering & Applied Sciences—held dedicated meetings to discuss their missions and academic goals for the year. Faculty and administrators focused on departmental priorities while aligning with the broader institutional vision. Workshops and discussion sessions offered practical guidance on teaching, research, and support services, reinforcing AUK’s values of integrity, creativity, and inclusivity. 

Additionally, the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) welcomed faculty back to campus with its annual Shaping Excellence Together – Faculty Kickoff Event. The gathering brought together new and returning faculty in a collegial, collaborative setting to reconnect, share ideas, and set a positive tone for the academic year ahead. 

The kickoff created space for faculty to strengthen connections, welcome new colleagues into the community, and exchange strategies for enhancing student learning. Over conversations and a shared meal, participants reflected on their teaching practices and explored how the CTE can best support their goals in the coming year. “Every new year gives us the chance to imagine what’s possible in the classroom. When we come together as educators, sharing our energy, our creativity, and our commitment, we create more than lessons; we create moments that inspire our students and shape their futures,” said Ms. Basema Dana, director of the Center for Teaching Excellence. 

As AUK enters its third decade, it continues to distinguish itself in Kuwait’s higher education landscape. Through its liberal arts mission, the university remains committed to empowering young people to lead, innovate, and contribute to the country’s progress, while ensuring its faculty and staff are equipped to guide students toward success. 

KIPCO CEO and Chair of AUK's board of trustees, Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah

AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad giving the state of the university address

Executive director of human resources and facilities management, Paul Bassil giving his speech at the orientation

General photo of the faculty orientation

General photo of the faculty orientation

General photo of the faculty orientation

General photo of the faculty orientation