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AUK announced the participation of Associate Professor Rita Merheb in the Architecture & Design Research Conference (ADRC) 2025, held in Jeddah, KSA from December 4 to 6. During the conference, Merheb presented her research poster titled ‘Design Documentation in Education: AUK Student Projects Preserving Regional Visual Culture’, followed by an academic Q&A session focused on design education and cultural heritage.

The research examines seven capstone projects developed by students in AUK’s Graphic Design Program and explores how design education can contribute to the documentation and reinterpretation of Gulf and regional visual culture. Through publications, illustration, interactive media, and children’s storytelling, the projects demonstrate how students engage with oral histories and local narratives, translating cultural knowledge into contemporary visual and interactive formats within a higher education setting.

Merheb’s study positions design students as active contributors to cultural preservation and highlights the role of academic institutions in fostering community-oriented and research-driven creative practice. By integrating design documentation into the curriculum, the research underscores the potential of design education to support cultural continuity while advancing critical thinking and visual communication skills.

AUK commended Rita Merheb for representing the university at a prominent regional academic conference and for contributing to ongoing scholarly conversations on design pedagogy and cultural stewardship.

Rita Merheb is an Associate Professor of Graphic Design in the Art & Design Department at AUK. Her research poster is currently available as a conference submission file, and a PDF version can be shared upon request. The full research paper is accessible through the official website created for the study.

https://sites.google.com/view/ritamerheb/abstract

AUK hosted the Culture Showcase at the AUK Basketball Court, welcoming students, faculty, and guests to a vibrant university-wide event dedicated to cultural awareness, academic application, and global engagement.

The Culture Showcase is a termly diversity-focused initiative developed by Associate Professor Dr. Nabeel Sawalha from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) as part of the International Business course (BUS321). The project enables students to explore a country through established cultural theories, examining traditions, values, cuisine, attire, artifacts, and communication styles. As a core component of the BUS321 curriculum, the initiative promotes a neutral, informed, and respectful understanding of cultural diversity within an international business context.

What began as a course-based assignment has evolved into a large-scale community event. Students independently select countries from all continents, allowing for originality, ownership, and creativity. Their efforts result in a dynamic environment where academic theory intersects with experiential learning, transforming the campus into a global cultural space.

This semester marked a significant milestone with the expansion of the Culture Showcase to include international diplomatic engagement. For the first time, an embassy was invited as a guest of honor, with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China participating in collaboration with the China Cultural Center in Kuwait. The Embassy’s First Secretary formally opened the event, underscoring the importance of cultural exchange and academic partnership. The collaboration contributed to an exceptional turnout and a comprehensive presentation of Chinese culture across multiple dimensions.

Students represented 25 countries this semester: Kuwait, China, United States, Canada, Egypt, Palestine, Japan, France, India, Spain, Lebanon, Greece, Brazil, Philippines, Argentina, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Mexico, Colombia, Türkiye, Iran, Malaysia, Russia, and Morocco.

Participants reflected on the showcase as an opportunity to move beyond traditional classroom learning. Students representing Kuwait emphasized how presenting their own culture fostered pride, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of international business theories when applied to lived cultural experience. The Mexico team highlighted the value of immersive storytelling and academic integration, noting that recognition for their work affirmed the impact of thoughtful cultural representation. The team representing the Philippines described the experience as transformative, combining theory, creativity, and sensory engagement to bring cultural values and communication styles to life.

The Culture Showcase continues to serve as a platform where academic rigor, cultural storytelling, and community engagement converge. Through student initiative and institutional support, the event reinforces AUK’s commitment to global awareness, experiential learning, and meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.

Images from the event

AUK officially welcomed its incoming students for the academic year 2025–26 with an orientation program designed to introduce them to the university’s values, community, and mission as Kuwait’s only liberal arts institution. 

The orientation featured inspiring addresses by the president, Dr. Rawda Awwad and vice president for student affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan. Together, they outlined the university’s commitment to academic excellence, student growth, and preparing its newest members to thrive in their university journey. 

In her remarks, President Awwad emphasized the significance of AUK’s liberal arts mission and the unique role the university plays in shaping future leaders for Kuwait and beyond. “The future belongs to those who stumble, rise, and invent anew; and that journey begins here at AUK,” she affirmed, underscoring the university’s dedication to fostering resilience, creativity, and leadership.

Dr. Al-Farhan reinforced this vision, highlighting the importance of student engagement, community spirit, and personal development. 

“Orientation marks the beginning of a transformative journey. At AUK, students are not only prepared academically but are also empowered to build character, leadership, and resilience. We are here to ensure every student feels supported and inspired from day one,” Dr. Al-Farhan noted. 

The orientation program included interactive sessions, campus tours, and community-building activities, immersing new students in the AUK experience. The event also introduced a wide range of academic, co-curricular, and support services designed to help students succeed throughout their university years. 

As AUK enters the 2025–26 academic year, the university continues to strengthen its role as a leader in liberal arts education in Kuwait, nurturing a community defined by excellence, creativity, and inclusivity, while advancing Kuwait Vision 2035 through education and innovation. 

AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad

Vice president for student affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan

General photo of students

Group photo of the new students for the year 2029

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

AUK is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi as Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), effective September 7, 2025.

Dr. Al-Awadhi earned her Ph.D. in Political Philosophy from the University of Texas at Austin and later served as a Visiting Scholar at Georgetown University. She also led the Kuwait Cultural Office in Washington, DC, where she oversaw major educational initiatives and student services. Her career reflects a strong record of leadership that aligns closely with AUK’s academic mission and strategic priorities.

As Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Al-Awadhi will provide strategic leadership for the University’s academic enterprise. She will be responsible for advancing academic priorities, strengthening teaching and learning, and aligning the University’s mission with Kuwait’s educational and workforce needs.

This appointment marks an important milestone in AUK’s institutional development. With the University now entering the implementation phase of its strategic plan, the creation of a dedicated VPAA role ensures focused leadership to guide AUK’s academic direction, foster research and scholarship, and prepare students for professional success.

Dr. Al-Awadhi expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, stating:

“I am honored to be appointed VPAA at AUK. I look forward to working closely with the AUK community to advance its mission, vision, and strategy, and to ensure that our students are well prepared for the future. With dedication and collaboration, I am committed to strengthening AUK’s role as Kuwait’s leading liberal arts university.”

Dr. Rawda Awwad, President of AUK, emphasized the importance of this decision, stating:

“Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi joins AUK at a pivotal moment, as we carry forward our strategic plan and academic mission. She will play a central role in advancing AUK’s academic contribution and presence within Kuwait’s educational and societal landscape. We are delighted to welcome her and look forward to working with her in service of our students and the wider academic community in Kuwait.”

Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi, vice president of academic affairs at AUK

AUK, in collaboration with strategic sponsor KIPCO, is proud to announce that registration is now open for Kuwait’s 6th NASA Space Apps Challenge, taking place on October 4–5, 2025 at the AUK campus. 

The NASA Space Apps Challenge is the world’s largest annual global hackathon, where innovators, creators, and problem-solvers from across the globe collaborate over 48 hours to design innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Participants will have access to NASA’s open data and will join thousands of like-minded individuals in cities around the world. 

Since its launch in 2012, the Space Apps Challenge has empowered participants of all ages and disciplines—from coders and scientists to designers, engineers, storytellers, technologists, and space enthusiasts—to transform bold ideas into meaningful projects. 

Dr. Marwa Sharawi, the local lead for NASA Space Apps Challenge in Kuwait shares her encouragement to join this year’s event, “For the sixth consecutive year, we are honored to host and lead the NASA Space Apps Challenge 2025 in Kuwait. As part of a global initiative that fosters innovation and collaboration, this event brings together Kuwait’s brightest minds from students and researchers to professionals and entrepreneurs to address real-world challenges through open science and creativity. It is a distinguished opportunity to showcase Kuwait’s innovation potential on the world stage, and we invite participants from all disciplines and backgrounds to join us in this impactful endeavor.”  

The hackathon encourages diversity of skills and thought. Participants will work in teams to conceptualize, prototype, and present their solutions to a panel of judges, with opportunities for local and global recognition. The entire event will be conducted in English. 

Interested participants can register through the link in AUK’s bio on its Instagram account AUK_Official. 

About NASA Space Apps Challenge 

The NASA International Space Apps Challenge is a global hackathon engaging tens of thousands of participants worldwide to tackle challenges faced both on Earth and in space. Space Apps inspires collaboration, innovation, and creativity, enabling individuals to contribute to NASA’s mission of exploring the universe for the benefit of humanity. 

AUK proudly highlights the success of its international programs initiatives this summer, welcoming graduate interns from abroad and sending AUK students across the globe to study and work at prestigious institutions. 

Inbound Programs 

AUK hosted Lola Ponchon and Julia Belakova, graduate students from Sciences Po Paris pursuing master’s degrees in European Affairs with a concentration in Education and Research Policy, as part of the 7-week funded Graduate Internship Program. 

During their time at AUK, Lola contributed to the Office of Student Life and the Office of International Student Programs, while Julia supported the Academic Advising Center and the Office of International Student Programs. Their work spanned student support services, academic advising, Erasmus+ partnership development, pre-arrival orientations for international students, content creation, and engagement sessions in collaboration with Campus France Kuwait. 

This program underscores the value of cross-border collaboration and reflects AUK’s commitment to fostering internationalization and mutual growth in higher education. 

Outbound Programs 

Simultaneously, AUK awarded nine scholarships to outstanding students for study abroad and international internship opportunities: 

• Shatha Mutairi – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Office of Web Services and Communications 

• Noor Qaddoumi – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Office of Web Services and Communications 

• Aayah Saleh – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Office of Pluralism and Leadership 

• Anas Jabr – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Tuck School of Business 

• Tala Tolba – Dartmouth College, USA – Exchange Semester 

• Fajer Jarkhi – Dartmouth College, USA – Exchange Semester 

• Mariam Hassan – University of Roehampton, UK – Study Abroad Semester 

• Batoul Kassem – The George Washington University, USA – Study Abroad Semester 

• Sara Saab – The George Washington University, USA – Study Abroad Semester 

Representing Kuwait on the international stage, these students gained invaluable academic and professional experiences while contributing meaningfully to their host universities and communities. 

Through scholarships, exchange programs, and funded internships, AUK continues to open doors for students and partners worldwide to participate in meaningful cultural exchange and professional development. These programs reaffirm AUK’s mission of preparing students to thrive in a globalized world while fostering international partnerships rooted in shared learning and growth. 

Anas Jabr, Shatha Mutairi, Aayah Saleh, Noor Qadoumi at Dartmouth College

Batoul Kassem & Sara Saab at the George Washington University

Julia & Lola exploring Kuwait

Julia Belakova, graduate student intern at AUK

Lola Ponchon, graduate student intern at AUK

Mariam Hassan at the University of Roehampton

AUK was proud to serve as the academic partner and venue sponsor for the 10th edition of LOYAC’s flagship program, KON for Social Entrepreneurship, and its closing ceremony held at AUK’s Theater.

In collaboration with Babson College, a global leader in entrepreneurship education, the KON program has, over the past decade, empowered youth across Kuwait by instilling values of leadership, social responsibility, and innovation. This year’s edition continued that legacy, bringing together ambitious young participants, sponsors, and community leaders to celebrate four weeks of intensive training, mentorship, and hands-on project development.

As the host institution, AUK provided an inspiring academic environment where participants presented nine innovative entrepreneurial projects addressing pressing social issues through sustainable solutions. The projects reflected a wide spectrum of community needs, ranging from environmental and educational initiatives to health and cultural programs.

Speaking on behalf of AUK, Mr. Paul Bassil, senior director of human capital and facilities management, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “The KON Program, in collaboration with LOYAC, is a transformative initiative that empowers young people through experiential learning, innovative leadership, and social responsibility. By fostering critical thinking and practical skills, it prepares the next generation to drive positive change in Kuwait and beyond.”

Ms. Futooh Al-Dallali, Member of the Board of Directors at LOYAC, said, “Today we celebrate the conclusion of the 10th edition of the KON Social Entrepreneurship Program, and with it we celebrate the fruits of ten years of hard work and a deep belief in the ability of youth to drive change and build a brighter future for our Kuwaiti society. Since its launch, the program has been more than just a training platform; it has been an incubator for ideas, a bridge between ambition and reality, and a true space for belonging and creativity. What we witnessed this year—in terms of intellectual maturity, innovative solutions, and participant diversity—reaffirms that investing in youth is the most valuable and impactful investment. The projects presented this year were not only unique in concept, but full of life, rooted in community needs, and built upon a clear vision for sustainable positive impact.”

AUK’s participation as an academic partner reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and youth empowerment, in alignment with Kuwait Vision 2035. Hosting KON on campus not only showcased AUK’s role as a hub for thought leadership but also reinforced the university’s mission to connect education with community impact.

As AUK continues to expand its partnerships with organizations like LOYAC, the university remains committed to nurturing a culture of innovation and preparing students and youth across Kuwait with the skills and mindset needed to shape a brighter, more sustainable future.

Mr. Paul Bassil receiving an award from Ms. Futooh Al-Dalali

Group Photo