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AUK bachelor’s degree program in computer science has been renewed by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, the global accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology.
ABET accreditation assures that programs meet standards to produce graduates ready to enter critical technical fields that are leading the way in innovation and emerging technologies and anticipating the welfare and safety needs of the public.
Commenting on this achievement, the dean of the College of Engineering & Applied Sciences at AUK, Dr. Mohammed El Abd, stated, “This milestone is more than just a recognition of our past and present efforts; it is also a promise for the future. With this renewal, our program is poised to continue its tradition of excellence, offering our students a competitive edge in their academic and professional pursuits. It will also enhance our ability to attract top-tier faculty and students, further enriching the educational environment here at the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences.”
In response to the growing demand for expertise in AI and Cybersecurity, AUK’s computer science program offers a cutting-edge curriculum that integrates foundational knowledge with advanced topics in these fields. Students are provided with hands-on experiences through research projects, internships, and industry partnerships, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges with innovative solutions.
Sought worldwide, ABET’s voluntary peer-review process is highly respected because it adds critical value to academic programs in the technical disciplines, where quality, precision and safety are of the utmost importance.
Developed by technical professionals from ABET’s member societies, ABET criteria focus on what students experience and learn. ABET accreditation reviews look at program curricula, faculty, facilities, and institutional support and are conducted by teams of highly skilled professionals from industry, academia and government, with expertise in the ABET disciplines.
ABET is a nonprofit, non-governmental organization with ISO 9001:2015 certification. It currently accredits 4,564 programs at 895 colleges and universities in 40 countries and areas.
More information about ABET, its member societies and the accreditation criteria used to evaluate programs can be found at www.abet.org.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural, and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) currently offers 16-degree programs in various academic disciplines. AUK received its institutional accreditation from the Private Universities Council (PUC) in Kuwait in 2006. The College of Business & Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business(AACSB); the College of Arts and Sciences is accredited by the American Academy for Liberal Education (AALE); its Bachelor of Arts in Design (concentration in graphic design) is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD); and the Intensive English Program is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA); the Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
For more information about the accredited programs at AUK, please visit this link https://www.auk.edu.kw/who-we-are/accreditation/
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The Game Jam Challenge is a high-pressure, creative competition where teams must develop a game from scratch based on a specific theme, all within a 48-hour window. The event is designed to encourage innovation, teamwork, and technical prowess, offering a platform for aspiring game developers to demonstrate their skills.
AUK’s team included information systems students, Joanna Saedawi and Malak Alsabt; David Liang, a teaching assistant in computer science and graduate; and Talal Al-Failakawi, a computer science graduate.
Their winning entry, "Kuwait Legacy Quest," is an inventive game that immerses players in Kuwait’s traditional way of life through a series of engaging minigames. As players craft essential items for daily life, they gradually contribute to the development of modern Kuwait, effectively connecting the past with the present. This game not only honors Kuwaiti heritage but also serves as a bridge to connect future generations with the rich history and skills that shaped the nation.
Dr. Ali Roumani, assistant professor in computer science, emphasized the importance of these challenges, “Such computing and technology competitions are very important in complementing students' academic education with hands-on technical and liberal arts experiences, as they encourage students’ creativity and innovation, enhancing their programming, design, and problem-solving abilities. It also trains students to identify market potential by evaluating their created games for commercial viability and potential for further development.”
AUK’s students and alumni showcased the University's commitment to fostering creativity, excellence, and innovation through their success. Their winning game, a tribute to Kuwaiti heritage, beautifully illustrates how AUK talent seamlessly blends tradition with modern innovation.
Two AUK students were awarded scholarships to spend their summer semester at GWU, connecting with peers internationally. Aisha Khazaal, a senior majoring in English literature; and Yara Abdel Rahman Touman, a sophomore majoring in finance will maintain a full-time status at GWU, taking two courses during a 6-week semester.
The GWU scholarship is one of several agreements AUK has with international institutions, aimed at providing students with study-abroad opportunities that promote cross-cultural exchanges. Through these international programs, AUK reaffirms its commitment to providing students with the necessary skills for student mobility. This experience provides personal growth, expands students’ horizons, and connects AUK student communities globally.
Similarly, six AUK students were selected to spend their summer semester with Dartmouth College, sharing insights, experiences, and gaining skills through the Internship Exchange and For-Credit Exchange programs. Nour Dashti, a junior majoring in graphic design; Maryam Samak, a senior majoring in communication & media; Reem Shady, a senior majoring in computer science; and Youssef Fakih, a senior majoring in finance, will be placed in various internship departments for 6 weeks on campus and remotely, putting their knowledge to practice while gaining a set of novel competencies. Youssef Damerji, a senior majoring in accounting; and Reema Al Haj Assad, a senior majoring in Finance, will be spending their summer semester taking three classes, sharing and learning among Dartmouth peers for a period of 10 weeks.
The Internship Exchange and For-Credit Exchange programs are a testament to the long-standing partnership between AUK and Dartmouth College, which aim to provide AUK and Dartmouth students with a holistic experience for academic, professional, and cultural exchange. The Dartmouth-AUK partnership transcends borders, allowing AUK and Dartmouth students to thrive in diverse and dynamic environments.
These initiatives underscore AUK’s commitment to providing its students with a comprehensive, world-class education that transcends borders and equips them for success in an increasingly interconnected world. AUK’s International Programs Department plays a crucial role in facilitating such opportunities, enabling students to gain world-class recognition and experience.
Professor Stoeckley’s murals are more than just colorful compositions—they are a visual exploration of personal and societal themes. Inspired by diverse influences ranging from stained glass and psychedelia to street art and geometric Islamic design, his work reflects an attempt to find harmony in chaotic asymmetry. Professor Stoeckley’s art is a response to the turbulence of contemporary news cycles and social media, aiming to offer an escape from political arguments and superficial debates.
The murals have also become a valuable educational tool. In AUK's art and design programs, professor Stoeckley’s work serves as a practical example of geometric precision and cultural significance. Drawing students explore foundational shapes and linear perspective, while painting students engage with color theory to capture the dynamic essence of the murals. 3-D Design students benefit from translating these two-dimensional patterns into three-dimensional forms, enhancing their understanding of structure and perspective.
By situating these murals near the AUK campus, Professor Stoeckley has provided a unique opportunity for students and faculty to engage with art that combines traditional Islamic geometric patterns with contemporary artistic expressions.
Professor Stoeckley’s integration of historical Islamic motifs with modern artistic vision encourages students to innovate while respecting traditional designs. His murals not only contribute to Kuwait’s public art landscape but also serve as a catalyst for creative exploration and cultural appreciation within the AUK community.
The event was attended by AUK cabinet members, student employees, their supervisors, and the campus community. It commenced with a welcome speech by Jayda AlFarooqi, AUK’s senior student life coordinator. Following her remarks, an award ceremony recognized the efforts of over 170 student employees.
"We are very proud of our student employees hired during the academic year 2023-2024. We appreciate their outstanding work and accomplishments within the student employment program," stated Jayda in her speech.
The student employment program, managed by the Office of Student Life, reflects AUK’s commitment to enhancing students' skills and engagement on campus. This opportunity allows enrolled students to gain professional experience, improve their employment skills, and build confidence in various professional and social situations.
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Abdulrahman Tareq Abdelmoneim was named Exceptional Member of the Year for his extraordinary contributions and commitment to the University. The International Relations Club won Most Improved Club, recognizing their significant progress and enhanced activities. Their event, Makhmekh, was awarded Event of the Year for its exceptional execution and impact. AUKMUN was celebrated as the Club of the Year, acknowledging their consistent excellence and contributions to campus life.
In sports, Abdulateef Al Roudan and Dana Ben Salamah were honored as Male and Female Athletes of the Year for their outstanding sportsmanship and academic achievements. Lynn Pais and Hajer Al-Enezi were named Student Employees of the Year, recognizing their leadership and dedication. The Wolf Pack Award went to Nuha Al-Sahli for her transformative leadership of the student-run magazine, VOICE. The prestigious President's Award was presented to Aiza Hussein for her resilience, integrity, and commitment to making a positive impact on others' lives, embodying the spirit of holistic education at AUK.
The annual awards ceremony was a heartfelt celebration of the exceptional talents and contributions of the AUK community. It honored the hard work and achievements of its members, reinforcing the University's commitment to fostering an environment of excellence and innovation.
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The MOU aims to enhance cooperation in scientific studies and research development. This collaboration seeks to broaden the scope of knowledge and establish a framework for joint research initiatives between the two institutions.
Under the MOU, both parties have agreed to explore opportunities for collaboration in various areas, including joint research projects and the organization of research workshops. These initiatives are geared towards fostering innovation, sharing expertise, and addressing global challenges through collaborative research efforts.
Commenting on the significance of the MOU and its caliber, Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director, stated, “We are excited to embark on this collaborative journey with USM. This partnership opens doors to new opportunities for knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration, ultimately driving innovation and societal impact.”
The signing of the MOU marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the collaboration between USM and AUK. By leveraging their respective strengths and expertise, both institutions aim to foster innovation, promote academic excellence, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge on a global scale.
Under the agreement, AU and AUK have committed to exploring cooperative academic initiatives. The agreement outlines a framework for joint programs, research endeavors and other educational initiatives. This partnership will not only enhance educational opportunities for students but also contribute to the advancement of knowledge and understanding on a global scale.
Commenting on the significance of this agreement, AUK President and Dr. Rawda Awwad stated, “Our collaboration with the American University in D.C. will provide our students with expanded opportunities to broaden their academic and cultural horizons in the heart of America's political and cultural landscape, while also offering AU the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and innovative ideas from our dynamic student body. This partnership further strengthens AUK’s commitment to student mobility, experiential learning and exchange, underscoring the core values of a liberal arts education in Kuwait.”
This strategic partnership between AU and AUK reaffirms their shared values of academic excellence, diversity and inclusivity. By harnessing their collective expertise and resources, both institutions aim to empower students and faculty members to make meaningful contributions to society and address pressing global challenges.
The panel discussion explored the impact of adaptive learning technologies on Kuwait's diverse educational landscape. The conversation examined how AI-driven tools could be customized to boost student engagement and learning outcomes across elementary, middle, and high school levels. Additionally, the potential of AI in supporting special needs education was highlighted. By tailoring AI applications to meet the diverse requirements of students with disabilities, more inclusive learning environments can be created. Specific examples of AI technologies that have shown promise in this area were shared, demonstrating the practical benefits of these innovations.
Another significant topic was the integration of AI into educational curricula to prepare students for the evolving job market in Kuwait. Strategies to incorporate AI literacy and future skills training were discussed, ensuring that students are well-equipped for the digital demands of tomorrow's workforce. Ethical considerations were also a crucial part of the conversation, as strategies needed to ethically integrate AI technologies into educational practices and administrative operations were deliberated. The need for comprehensive teacher training programs was emphasized, highlighting the specific AI technologies educators in Kuwait should be trained on to enhance their teaching methods.
The event was further enriched by the participation of esteemed colleagues from AUK, including the dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Dr. Mohammed El-Abd; Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, associate professor of systems engineering; Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, assistant director of ORG and assistant professor of management; and Dr. Dmytro Roman Kulchitsky, associate professor of public policy and international relations. Their presence and insights contributed significantly to the depth of the discussions. Major barriers to adopting AI in Kuwait's educational sector were addressed, and solutions to overcome these challenges were proposed. Overall, the event was a resounding success, providing valuable insights into the future of AI in education and its potential to transform learning experiences in Kuwait.
Key representatives, including Mr. Meshaal Ali, vice chair of AUK's Board of Trustees, and Ms. Norah AlGhanim, president of PSUK, signed the agreement. During a ceremony for the partnership, Mr. Meshaal expressed optimism about the partnership, "At AUK, we are deeply committed to nurturing a culture of educational excellence and innovation. Through this partnership with the Private Schools Union of Kuwait, we are expanding access to high-quality educational programs and cultivating a community of empowered educators poised to shape Kuwait's educational landscape." Mrs. Nehal ElShafei reiterated the transformative impact of the collaboration on the private schooling sector, "Through the provision of internationally accredited programs, we are not only reinforcing the professional competence of educators but also elevating the overall standard of education in the private schooling sector. This partnership illustrates our joint commitment to promoting excellence and instigating positive transformation within Kuwait's educational domain."
Mrs. Amal Al-Binali, executive vice president of AUK, highlighted the prestigious accreditation attained by CCE from Cambridge International. Mrs. Al-Binali also shared the significant number of students and graduates who have benefited from the Cambridge International Diploma programs since its inception in 2018.
Ms. AlGhanim emphasized the importance of teacher licensing and the value of partnering with AUK. Ms. Nehal ElShafei, Director of CCE, noted the partnership's role in improving teacher quality across Kuwait.
The collaboration aims to provide educators with internationally recognized credentials, supporting their professional development and enhancing educational standards. The Cambridge International Diplomas will equip educators with essential skills and knowledge to excel in their roles.
PSUK praised the partnership as a significant step towards improving education in private schools, demonstrating a shared commitment to high-quality education and professional growth. CCE will ensure these programs are accessible and provide tailored support for educators, with plans for further professional development opportunities.
About The American University of Kuwait (AUK):
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and coeducational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural, and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning.
Established by Amiri Decree 139 in 2003, AUK received its Institutional Accreditation from the Private Universities Council (PUC) - Ministry of Higher Education in the State of Kuwait, as of February 1, 2006.The American University of Kuwait is a liberal arts institution dedicated to teaching, learning, and scholarship. The University offers programs that provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for lifelong learning and professional success. AUK enriches society by fostering an environment encouraging critical thinking, effective communication, personal growth, service, and leadership.
About the Private Schools Union of Kuwait (PSUK):
The Private Schools Union of Kuwait (PSUK) is a top supporter of excellent education in private schools. They focus on making sure teachers in Kuwait receive quality education and professional development.
About AUK's Center for Continuing Education (CCE):
CCE is recognized as a leading Professional Development Center in Kuwait, offering internationally certified professional development programs in various fields. Endorsed by reputable institutions such as Cambridge International Examinations, CCE delivers applied training programs that meet the highest standards of excellence.