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AUK launched the first Faculty Speaker Series event of the 2025–2026 academic year with an engaging presentation by Dr. Sarah Al Shamali, Assistant Professor of Marketing, titled “Smart Research, Not Hard Research: Leveraging Frameworks as a Strategy.” The event took place on Wednesday, October 28, and marked the beginning of another year of insightful discussions that bring together faculty, researchers, and members of the academic community.
Dr. Sarah Al Shamali has been an Assistant Professor of Marketing at AUK since 2021. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of East London and has published research on topics such as mobile payment adoption, behavioral intentions related to charitable giving, and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. She has taught at both private and public institutions in Kuwait and continues to serve as a reviewer for several reputable academic journals.
Dr. Al Shamali shared her research experience and discussed how the Theory of Planned Behaviour can be applied across different disciplines as a foundation for building effective, interconnected studies. She emphasized the importance of adopting a flexible, well-established framework to enhance research efficiency and productivity, explaining that such an approach enables scholars to build on prior work rather than starting each study from scratch. Drawing on examples from her own academic journey, Dr. Al Shamali illustrated how this method not only increases efficiency but also contributes to cumulative knowledge building and helps researchers establish strong, relevant profiles through a coherent body of work.
The session began with opening remarks from Dr. Salime Smadi, Chair of the Faculty Speaker Series, who welcomed attendees and expressed appreciation to the former Director of the Office of Research and Grants (ORG), Dr. Ahmad Al Saber, for his valuable support during the previous academic year. She also extended a warm welcome to the newly appointed Director, Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, highlighting the significance of the Faculty Speaker Series as a platform for faculty to connect, exchange ideas, and inspire one another through research.
AUK President, Dr. Rawda Awwad, also addressed the audience, emphasizing the importance of supporting and recognizing faculty research efforts. She shared a personal reflection on her own experience publishing her thesis, underscoring the challenges and rewards of the research process. Dr. Rawda commended Dr. Smadi for her continued leadership in fostering a culture of academic engagement and for creating opportunities that enable faculty members to present their work and collaborate on shared research goals.
Dr. Al Shamali’s presentation resonated with attendees, offering practical insight into how a strategic approach to research can lead to more meaningful outcomes. By applying theoretical frameworks across disciplines, researchers can produce studies that are more cohesive, impactful, and adaptable to various contexts. The session concluded with a lively Q&A discussion, allowing participants to exchange ideas on how to integrate framework-based strategies into their own research pursuits.
Through initiatives like the Faculty Speaker Series, AUK continues to promote research excellence, faculty development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. These events reflect the university’s commitment to fostering a vibrant academic environment that encourages knowledge-sharing, innovation, and intellectual growth among its faculty and students.
Images from the event
The Embassies of Australia and Canada, together with AUK and Playbook, hosted “Smart Takes: Women, Peace and Security” – a forum exploring progress, challenges and future prospects 25 years after the adoption of the landmark UN resolution on Women Peace and Security (WPS).
The event highlighted women’s leadership in diplomacy, peace, and security, and many other areas, underscoring their vital role in advancing the WPS agenda. It brought together diplomats, students, academics, professionals, and members of civil society for a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives.
In her opening remarks, AUK President Dr. Rawda Al Awwad said: “For us at AUK, this isn’t just an academic discussion. It reflects what an American style liberal arts education is meant to do which is to connect learning to people’s lives, to deepen understanding, and to remind us that education can be a quiet but powerful force for peace.”
The program featured TED-style presentations by distinguished women leaders, including:
HE Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ebraheem Duaij Al-Sabah – Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
HE Melissa Kelly, Australian Ambassador to Kuwait
HE Tara Scheurwater, Ambassador-Designate of Canada to Kuwait
Sheikha Fouz Fahad Al-Sabah – Founder and Managing Director, Khaleejesque
Ms. Taiba H. Al-Humaidhi – Founder and Executive Producer, Lei Wa Lakom
Ms. Dima Aburshaid - Senior Instructor of Computer Science, AUK
Ms. Sundus Hussein – IT and AI Expert and Founder of Thoubha App
Ms. Hind AlKhatrash – Founder and CEO, Leap
Dr. Shareefa Abdullah Al-Adwani, Associate Professor of Political Science, AUK
Ms. Nada Darwish, Chief Operations Officer, Playbook
HE Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ebraheem Duaij Al-Sabah – Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs delivered the keynote address, outlining Kuwait’s extensive efforts to build the participation of women across the security services, as well as the participation of Kuwait in international fora on the issue of women peace and security.
Her Excellency Melissa Kelly, Ambassador of Australia to the State of Kuwait, said: “The Women, Peace and Security agenda is more important than ever around the world women and girls are disproportionately affected by conflict, at a time when we are seeing historically high levels of conflict and challenge to international law. It’s therefore vital that we maintain momentum around the global WPS agenda, making this anniversary the ideal opportunity to bring together leaders in Kuwait to shed new light on the issue.”
Her Excellency Tara Scheurwater, Ambassador-designate of Canada to the State of Kuwait, added: “In peace and security, business, and health indeed, in every sector, outcomes are stronger and more sustainable when women are meaningfully included. Gender equality is not only a matter of rights, but a foundation for lasting peace and prosperity. This anniversary is a powerful reminder that when women have an equal voice and seat at the table, communities and nations are more resilient, secure, and just.”
AUK faculty members Dr. Shareefa Al-Adwani and Ms. Dima Aburshaid, as well as AUK alumna Ms. Taiba Al-Humaidhi, were also present to share their professional insights and personal experiences in leadership and peacebuilding.
The “Smart Takes: Women, Peace and Security” forum celebrated women’s leadership, fostered inclusive dialogue, and explored how emerging technologies are shaping the future of diplomacy and security, particularly in amplifying women’s voices and influence on the global stage.
Dr. Rawda Awwad, AUK President
HE Melissa Kelly, Australian Ambassador to Kuwait
HE Tara Scheurwater, Ambassador-Designate of Canada to Kuwait
HE Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ebraheem Duaij Al-Sabah – Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Sheikha Fouz Fahad Al-Sabah – Founder and Managing Director, Khaleejesque
Ms. Taiba H. Al-Humaidhi – Founder and Executive Producer, Lei Wa Lakom
Ms. Sundus Hussein – IT and AI Expert and Founder of Thoubha App
Ms. Hind AlKhatrash – Founder and CEO, Leap
Ms. Nada Darwish, Chief Operations Officer, Playbook
Ms. Dima Aburshaid - Senior Instructor of Computer Science, AUK
Dr. Shareefa Abdullah Al-Adwani, Associate Professor of Political Science, AUK
Group photo of the speakers
(left to right) Ms. Ghada E. Khalaf, Vice Chair BOT at AUK; Dr. Rawda Awwad, AUK President; Dr. Aseel Awadhi, Vice President of Academic Affairs; H.E Ambassador Nabeela Al-Mulla
Group photo of the audience
The Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK organized the “Idea to Proposal” workshop to equip faculty members with the tools and knowledge needed to transform innovative ideas into structured research proposals aligned with Kuwait Vision 2035 and the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) 2025 Second Call.
The workshop began with welcoming remarks from Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, Manager of the Office of Research and Grants, who emphasized the importance of aligning academic research with Kuwait’s national development goals. In his opening statement, Dr. Gharaibeh highlighted the significance of Kuwait Vision 2035’s seven pillars, Public Administration, Economy, Human Capital, Environment, Health, Infrastructure, and Global Positioning, and KFAS’s priority areas, which include Health, Education, Energy, Environment, Water Security, Food Security, and Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence. He noted that these frameworks guide researchers toward meaningful contributions that support the nation’s progress.
Participants were briefed on the KFAS 2025 Second Call, open from August 15 to November 15, 2025, which invites proposals under four tracks: Applied, Fundamental, Policy, and Young Researcher. Throughout the session, moderators led participants through the essential stages of proposal development, including identifying research problems, defining aims and outcomes, and designing effective methodologies. The discussions emphasized the importance of contextualizing research within Kuwait’s national priorities, establishing measurable objectives, and fostering collaboration across disciplines. Participants were also encouraged to build partnerships with universities, industries, NGOs, and regulatory bodies, and to identify potential co-funding opportunities to strengthen their proposals.
Attendees explored research opportunities in sectors such as Energy and Environment, Health, Education, Food Security, and Digital Transformation and AI, discussing potential collaborations with entities including the Environment Public Authority (EPA), the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), and various telecommunications and healthcare organizations. Moderators guided participants to frame their research questions thoughtfully and to focus on measurable results that demonstrate progress within six to twelve months.
The workshop concluded with an engaging question-and-answer segment, during which attendees discussed proposal challenges, shared ideas for interdisciplinary projects, and received guidance on using the KFAS Pure Portal to review previously funded initiatives. The session fostered an atmosphere of collaboration, creativity, and shared learning among AUK’s academic community.
By equipping faculty with practical frameworks and strategic insights, the “Idea to Proposal” workshop reinforced AUK’s commitment to advancing research excellence and contributing to Kuwait’s national development and scientific innovation.
Image from the event
In celebration of Women’s Entrepreneurship Week (WEW) and the College of Business and Economics’ (CBE) commitment to the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), AUK hosted a creative and reflective event titled “Who Am I Becoming?”—a collage workshop designed as a journey of creative self-discovery. The workshop was organized by Dr. Salime Smadi and Dr. Shaihana Al Mutairi, bringing together students for an engaging exploration of identity, empowerment, and well-being through art.
Every year, the College of Business and Economics collaborates with Montclair State University (USA) to commemorate Women’s Entrepreneurship Week and to emphasize the role of women entrepreneurs and the importance of female empowerment. The annual event also underscores the university’s dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), particularly Goal No. 5—Gender Equality. This year’s workshop further expanded its focus to include UNSDG No. 3—Good Health and Well-being, recognizing the vital link between creativity, emotional wellness, and self-awareness.
Dr. Smadi and Dr. Al Mutairi welcomed attendees and introduced the workshop facilitator, Ms. Fatima Al Loghani, a distinguished collage artist, marketing director, and entrepreneur. Ms. Al Loghani is also the founder of Coco Collage, a platform that promotes self-expression and mental well-being through the art of collage. Under her guidance, students were encouraged to engage in an introspective and therapeutic creative process that allowed them to reflect on their personal growth, emotions, and aspirations.
The session resonated deeply with participants, many of whom described it as a transformative and restorative experience. One student reflected that the workshop was “a therapeutic way to reflect on who I am and who I am becoming,” describing it as “a feeling engraved in me forever rather than just an enjoyable experience.” Another participant shared that it was “a relaxing and creative experience” that helped them connect more deeply with their personality through art. A third participant noted that “the workshop was more than just creating art, it was a gentle space for healing, a way to process emotions and find comfort through creativity.”
Throughout the event, students had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with Ms. Al Loghani, allowing for meaningful dialogue and personalized reflection. The collage workshop proved to be a valuable exercise in self-care and mental health awareness, offering participants a unique and creative outlet for self-expression. Students left the session feeling inspired, grounded, and more connected with their sense of self.
As part of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Week celebrations, AUK also welcomed Matcha Bar, a local startup founded by two AUK students, Ms. Jenna Al Fahad and Ms. Dhai Al Saho. The event served as an inspiring reminder of the entrepreneurial spirit within AUK’s community and the university’s ongoing support for student-led business ventures.
Through initiatives such as these, the College of Business and Economics continues to promote creativity, empowerment, and responsible leadership among its students. The college remains committed to fostering an environment that supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and personal growth, values that lie at the heart of both PRME and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Week mission.
Images from the event
AUK is proud to announce that it will host Ms. Dalia Qarqour, Fulbright Scholar, in the field of Social and Behavioral Studies, for the 2025–2026 academic year.
This collaboration, organized through AUK’s Office of Research and Grants, AUK faculty, and the Office of International Student Programs, underscores the university’s continued commitment to fostering global engagement, academic excellence, and cross-cultural exchange.
During her time at AUK, Ms. Qarqour will work closely with Dr. Fahad Al Sumait, Associate Professor of Communication and Media, who will serve as the collaborating faculty member. Together, they aim to contribute to research and academic initiatives that advance understanding in the field of social and behavioral studies.
Ms. Qarqour holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (Nutrition Research and Science) with a minor in Chemistry and History from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her interdisciplinary background and research experience are expected to enrich AUK’s academic environment and provide new perspectives on social and behavioral research within the region.
Hosting a distinguished Fulbright Scholar highlights AUK’s dedication to attracting exceptional global talent, strengthening international partnerships, and enhancing its role as a leading liberal arts institution in the Gulf region.
AUK looks forward to a productive year of collaboration, cross-cultural understanding, and academic innovation as it welcomes Ms. Qarqour to its diverse and dynamic community.
Ms. Dalia Qarqour, Fulbright Scholar
Two professors from the American University of Kuwait (AUK) have once again been recognized among the top 2% of global researchers in the 2025 list published by Stanford University and Elsevier BV. Dr. Mohammed El-Abd, Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS), and Dr. Muhammad Ikram, Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering, were acknowledged for their continued career-long contributions in their respective fields.
Dr. El-Abd has now been recognized for the sixth time under the domain of Artificial Intelligence. Reflecting on the honor, he stated, “Being acknowledged again is a testament not only to my personal dedication but also to the hard work, perseverance, and collaborative spirit of all my colleagues and students over the years.”
With over 100 publications, Dr. El-Abd’s research spans meta-heuristics, evolutionary computation, swarm intelligence, cooperative algorithms, and smart cities. He remains committed to advancing science and mentoring the next generation of engineers.
Dr. Ikram, who continues to strengthen AUK’s research profile in the field of Networking and Telecommunications, was again recognized among the top 2% of researchers globally. His work includes over 50 refereed journal articles and conference papers, with a focus on integrated antennas, phased arrays, and 5G/6G communications. Dr. Ikram also serves as an associate editor for several prestigious journals.
“This recognition motivates me to continue contributing to advancements in electrical, electronics, and telecommunication engineering,” Dr. Ikram said. “Being ranked among the top global researchers underscores the impact of our work and inspires ongoing collaboration within the international scientific community.”
The recognition of professors, El-Abd and Ikram, highlights AUK’s ongoing commitment to excellence in research and education, showcasing faculty members whose expertise and achievements continue to inspire students and strengthen Kuwait’s presence in global scientific innovation.
Dr. Mohammed El-Abd, Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS)
Dr. Muhammad Ikram, Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering
AUK proudly welcomes five international students this semester through its partnerships with Dartmouth College and Sciences Po. This initiative highlights AUK’s dedication to promoting international exchange and enriching its academic community with diverse perspectives.
Wahiba Badi, an International Relations and International Law major, is joining AUK from Sciences Po through the Sciences Po AUK Exchange Program. From Dartmouth College, four students are spending the semester on campus: Tas, a Computer Science major interning at the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences; Najma Bore, a Cognitive Sciences major participating in the Dartmouth AUK Exchange Program; Aiai Chung, a Government and History major interning at the Department of International Relations and the Office of International Student Programs; and Na’sir English, a Government and Middle East Studies major participating in the Dartmouth AUK Exchange Program.
The presence of these international students on campus strengthens AUK’s position as a hub for cultural exchange and academic collaboration. By welcoming international students and interns, AUK fosters dialogue, intercultural understanding, and shared learning experiences that enrich the University community.
Looking ahead, AUK is preparing to send its own students abroad for exchange and study abroad opportunities. Applications are currently open for the Sciences Po Exchange Program, while mid-October will mark the launch of applications for the Dartmouth Exchange & Internship, the George Washington University Exchange, the University of Roehampton Exchange, and the Sciences Po French Language Study Abroad Program.
These initiatives reaffirm AUK’s commitment to providing transformative opportunities for students, preparing them to thrive as global citizens in an interconnected world.
Group photo of the international students
AUK continues to make its mark in global innovation by successfully organizing the 2025 NASA Space Apps Challenge, the world’s largest hackathon introduced by NASA. Sponsored by Kuwait Projects Company (Holding) – KIPCO, this milestone marks AUK’s sixth consecutive year as the exclusive host of the prestigious event in Kuwait, reaffirming its commitment to fostering creativity, technological advancement, and entrepreneurship among young innovators.
Reflecting on the spirit of the event, AUK President Dr. Rawda Awwad remarked, “Discovery begins not with rockets or machines, but with imagination, questions, and the courage to test limits. The NASA Space Apps Challenge embodies that spirit, and at AUK, we are proud to host a space where curiosity, collaboration, and innovation come together to prepare Kuwait’s next generation of problem-solvers for the world ahead.”
Held on the AUK campus, the 48-hour hackathon, themed “Learn. Launch. Lead.”, brought together 299 participants from diverse backgrounds, including high school students, university students, graduates, and professionals. The event saw 48 teams take on NASA’s complex challenges, working to develop innovative solutions in fields such as space exploration, climate resilience, and sustainability.
Throughout the event, participants formed multidisciplinary teams that included scientists, coders, designers, and business strategists, collaborating to create cutting-edge applications, simulations, and digital tools addressing real-world challenges presented by NASA.
Dr. Marwa Sharawi, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at AUK and local lead for the 2025 NASA Space Apps Challenge in Kuwait, commended the impressive turnout: “The impressive turnout reflects the growing enthusiasm for innovation, collaboration, and STEM exploration within Kuwait’s youth. Participants demonstrated creativity, technical skill, and teamwork as they addressed real-world NASA challenges in space, Earth science, and AI. Beyond its scale, the event’s true impact was in empowering students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and apply technology toward meaningful global solutions.”
Ms. Eman Al Awadhi, KIPCO’s Group Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications & Investor Relations, reaffirmed the holding company’s ongoing commitment to supporting innovation and empowering Kuwait’s youth. She said, “We are honored to support the NASA Space Apps Challenge hosted by AUK in Kuwait. As a leading investment group, we prioritize promoting innovation, education, and community development. This event was an excellent opportunity to inspire creativity, advance technology, and encourage scientific exploration among our youth. Our backing reflects KIPCO’s strategic commitment to empowering future generations and expanding social impact through meaningful initiatives. We firmly believe that nurturing young talent is vital for building a sustainable, innovative future for Kuwait.”
The event concluded with a closing ceremony, where winners were celebrated for their creativity, technical excellence, and potential for real-world impact. A distinguished panel of judges, including faculty members, industry experts, and international representatives, evaluated the projects based on innovation, execution, and social relevance.
The first-place winning team, Spaced Out, was recognized for its project under the challenge “Meteor Madness.” The second-place team, KES AstroBio, tackled the challenge “Build a Space Biology Knowledge Engine.” The third-place team, ExoOps, addressed the challenge “Will It Rain On My Parade?”
These top three teams will advance to NASA’s global judging stage, where their projects will compete with innovative solutions from around the world.
By hosting the NASA Space Apps Challenge, AUK reinforces its role as a catalyst for innovation and hands-on learning in Kuwait. The event not only provides students with the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges but also strengthens the University’s mission to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and global collaboration. Through initiatives like this, AUK continues to prepare the next generation of innovators and leaders to contribute meaningfully to science, technology, and society.
About KIPCO:
Kuwait Projects Company (Holding) – KIPCO – is a holding company that invests in the Middle East and North Africa. Its strategy of acquiring, building, scaling and selling companies in the MENA region has worked successfully for over 30 years.
KIPCO’s main business sectors are financial services, food, petrochemicals & oil services, media, real estate and education. It’s financial service interests include commercial banking, asset management and investment banking.
Group photo of the BOT members, AUK president, Ms. Eman Al Awadhi (KIPCO) & NASA judges
NASA Space Apps Challenge 2025 judges
Dr. Marwa Sharawi during her welcome speech
First place winners
Second place winners
Third place winners
A senior capstone team from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS), supervised by Dr. Amro Nour, achieved remarkable success at the 16th Student Research Conference (SRC 2025), hosted by Zayed University in Dubai.
The team’s project, titled “Generating Power from Footsteps: A Smart Tile Solution,” earned the Best Poster Award, recognizing their innovative approach to sustainable energy generation. In addition, AUK received the Outstanding Participation Award, celebrating the university’s strong engagement and quality contributions to the conference.
“This accomplishment is a testament to our students’ ingenuity, dedication, and passion for innovation,” said Dr. Amro Nour, faculty supervisor. “Their project embodies AUK’s commitment to fostering practical, impactful solutions that address global challenges through engineering and technology.”
Developed by Hussain Jaragh and Ali Al-Ali, the project focuses on harnessing the kinetic energy produced by human footsteps to generate electrical power through smart flooring tiles. This sustainable solution demonstrates how renewable energy concepts can be integrated into everyday environments to support smart city initiatives and eco-friendly infrastructure.
Held under the theme “AI Innovations for a Better Tomorrow,” SRC 2025 brought together exceptional student researchers from the UAE, the wider region, and universities worldwide to present cutting-edge projects in computing and applied technology. The AUK team’s recognition at this international event reinforces the university’s growing presence in global research and innovation.
“Participating in SRC 2025 was an inspiring experience,” said Hussain Jaragh. “It motivated us to continue exploring creative ways to make technology more sustainable and accessible.”
“Taking part in SRC 2025 and seeing everyone striving to do their best acted as a catalyst,” added Ali Al-Ali. “It inspired us to usher in new waves of technological progress.”
Prof. Mohammed El-Abd, Dean of CEAS, commented, “CEAS’s continuous, award-winning participation in this conference is a proud reflection of the college’s vibrant research culture. Year after year, our students demonstrate creativity, innovation, and academic excellence.”
AUK extends its heartfelt congratulations to Hussain Jaragh and Ali Al-Ali for their outstanding performance, as well as to Dr. Amro Nour for his mentorship and leadership. Their success exemplifies CEAS’s dedication to academic excellence, research innovation, and empowering students to make a positive impact on the world.
Congratulations to our award-winning team for bringing pride and recognition to the American University of Kuwait!
Images from the event
AUK hosted a celebration of the European Day of Languages, welcoming distinguished guests and representatives from twelve European countries, including Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. Organized in collaboration with the French Institute in Kuwait, the event highlighted a shared commitment to cultural exchange and educational engagement. It also reflected the strong ties between AUK and the international community.
Among the attendees were the Ambassador of the European Union to Kuwait, H.E. Ms. Anne Koistinen, the Ambassador of Greece, H.E. Mr. Andreas Panayiotou, ambassadors from Belgium, Bulgaria, Romania, and the Director of the French Institute in Kuwait, alongside other diplomats.
AUK President, Dr. Rawda Awwad, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in higher education, underscoring the University’s dedication to building bridges across cultures. The program featured activities that celebrated linguistic and cultural diversity, offering students opportunities to engage in meaningful exchanges that broadened their perspectives.
As a leading liberal arts institution in Kuwait, AUK values its partnerships with embassies and international organizations, recognizing their role in enriching the student experience. Rooted in the liberal arts tradition, AUK is dedicated to cultivating critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, while preparing students to become innovative leaders in an increasingly interconnected world.
The European Day of Languages at AUK reinforced the University’s mission to inspire global perspectives and encourage students to embrace cultural diversity.
Ambassador of the European Union to Kuwait, H.E. Ms. Anne Koistinen
Director of the French Institute in Kuwait, Ms. Soraya SAA
(From right)- AUK President, Dr. Rawda Awwad along with ambassadors & diplomats
General photos from the event
General photos from the event
General photos from the event
