News
17, Dec 2018
NASA Space Apps Challenge (Kuwait) Winners Chosen Among 25 Finalists Worldwide
The first place winners of the NASA Space Apps Challenge that was held in Kuwait in October have qualified to compete in the final round as one of top 25 global finalists (out of 400). The world’s largest hackathon was hosted in Kuwait by the Center for Research in Informatics, Sciences, and Engineering (RISE) at the American University of Kuwait (AUK), in collaboration with the University’s strategic partner, Kuwait Projects Company (KIPCO).
The international competition occurred over the span of 48 hours in 200 cities around the world, with over 2700 teams competing. The Kuwait competition brought together 80 people from all backgrounds, ages, and professions to solve problems related to Earth and space.
The winning team—Team Tempest, successfully tackled ‘The Polar Quest’ challenge, where they designed a quest-like game called Ice Blink, which is a 4-dimensional systems-based augmented reality puzzle game that simulates the interaction between entities in a given localized ecosystem to predict its future along a timeline. They utilized NASA’s data-set to help adventurers plan their quest and present them with challenges along the way. The application intends to raise awareness about polar environments and how they are changing.
Team Tempest are the only team from the GCC region, and one of two teams from the MENA region to qualify to the top 25.
Director of RISE Center, Professor Amir Zeid highlighted the importance of establishing links with international technology events of high relevance and the benefits to the local community, “Kuwait’s team advancing to the top 25 finalists proves that there is great potential among young innovators and entrepreneurs in Kuwait. We are proud of their achievement,” he added.
Team Tempest included the following students:
- Omar Khalil (Team leader)
- Noureldin Khalil
- Mohammed Hazem
- Islam Khaled Al-Toukhy
- RouNan Wang
- Hind Al-Nusif
About RISE
The AUK Center for Research in Informatics, Sciences, and Engineering (RISE) serves as AUK's primary source for multidisciplinary research and development (R&D) activities. The Center employs a holistic approach to R&D by integrating academic disciplines, and forging connections between local & international innovators, academia & industry, and technology & society.
About KIPCO
Kuwait Projects Company (KIPCO) is an investment holding company with operations that extend across the Middle East and North African region, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arabian Sea. With holdings in sectors such as financial services, media, manufacturing and real estate, KIPCO Group comprises over 60 companies and employs over 12,000 people in 24 countries. Founded in 1975, KIPCO has since become one of the MENA region’s most successful companies.
NASA Space Apps Challenge (Kuwait) Winners, Team Tempest with RISE Director, Dr. Amir Zeid
16, Dec 2018
AUK Students Participate in ‘Our Environment, Our Humanity’ Initiative
Students from the American University of Kuwait (AUK) participated in the “Our Environment Our Humanity” initiative where they were able to collect more than 120 kg of waste across Shuwaikh’s beach. Held in December, this was organized as a joint collaboration alongside Omniya, 6eyond.co, and other local volunteer organizations, under the auspices of the Environment Public Authority.
Besides cleaning up, AUK students were also collecting field notes to later use as a primary source for their research papers on the various aspects and perceptions of recycling in Kuwait. Practicing these skills contributed to their efforts in becoming more qualified researchers who are concerned with modern issues.
This collaboration was supervised by Dr. Inas Mahfouz, Assistant Professor at the Department of English at AUK, who said, “Such collaborative efforts are indispensable for creating a better environment. As a liberal arts institution, AUK is always keen on encouraging students to participate in community service programs and give back to their country,” she stated.
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Besides cleaning up, AUK students were also collecting field notes to later use as a primary source for their research papers on the various aspects and perceptions of recycling in Kuwait. Practicing these skills contributed to their efforts in becoming more qualified researchers who are concerned with modern issues.
This collaboration was supervised by Dr. Inas Mahfouz, Assistant Professor at the Department of English at AUK, who said, “Such collaborative efforts are indispensable for creating a better environment. As a liberal arts institution, AUK is always keen on encouraging students to participate in community service programs and give back to their country,” she stated.
AUK volunteers during the Shuwaikh beach cleanup
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11, Dec 2018
AUK Team Receives Excellent Academy Award in China
A team of students from AUK, Haider Asim and alumna Farah Al-Mutairi achieved first place in the Huawei Information and Communication Technology (ICT) National Final. The competition was first hosted by the Huawei Center for Innovation and Training at Al-Hamra Tower. This qualified them to represent Kuwait in the regional finals that took place in Huawei’s headquarters in China where they earned the Excellent Academy award.
The final competition featured the participation of thirteen teams across ten countries in the Middle East who underwent three months of qualifying rounds, including a selective national exam. Following this, the final teams were selected for an all-expense paid trip to China, where a sum of 39 talents were represented. This competition offered the students a competitive platform where the region’s finest ICT talents were nurtured and encouraged to contribute to national efforts towards digital transformation and economic growth. To prepare, participants worked in laboratories alongside experts where they tackled challenges related to computer networks such as cloud computing, routing, network security, and other future trends in communication technology. After competing in the finals, the participants attended a technology workshop facilitated by international ICT experts, followed by a high-level panel discussion by senior delegates from the Middle East and China.
Dr. Ashraf Zaher, Chair of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, praised the team’s qualification in the competition as he elaborates, “It is a nice opportunity for AUK students to get exposure to the state-of-the-art technologies in the field of information and communication technology, in addition to demonstrating their competency level, while competing with other students. AUK winners were able to explore potential opportunities for international scholarships, internships, and further collaborations with research-based institutions.”
For their efforts, the national winners were granted traineeships or employment opportunities with Huawei, where they will gain further insider access to Huawei’s combination of programming and coding for data communication and computer networks. Similarly, the team received the Excellence Award in the regional finals in recognition of their outstanding participation, as well as an assortment of Huawei’s latest laptops and smartphones.
Dr. Zaher further commented on the support the students received to win this competition, “AUK winners dedicated a lot of time and effort to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to win this competition. The excellent program structure of the ABET-accredited computer engineering program at AUK, with its well-chosen core and elective courses, in the concentration of data communication and computer networks was the key factor of this success, along with the state-of-the-art labs and other resources provided by AUK to its students.”
This marks AUK’s first participation and qualification in Huawei’s ICT Competition.
The final competition featured the participation of thirteen teams across ten countries in the Middle East who underwent three months of qualifying rounds, including a selective national exam. Following this, the final teams were selected for an all-expense paid trip to China, where a sum of 39 talents were represented. This competition offered the students a competitive platform where the region’s finest ICT talents were nurtured and encouraged to contribute to national efforts towards digital transformation and economic growth. To prepare, participants worked in laboratories alongside experts where they tackled challenges related to computer networks such as cloud computing, routing, network security, and other future trends in communication technology. After competing in the finals, the participants attended a technology workshop facilitated by international ICT experts, followed by a high-level panel discussion by senior delegates from the Middle East and China.
Dr. Ashraf Zaher, Chair of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, praised the team’s qualification in the competition as he elaborates, “It is a nice opportunity for AUK students to get exposure to the state-of-the-art technologies in the field of information and communication technology, in addition to demonstrating their competency level, while competing with other students. AUK winners were able to explore potential opportunities for international scholarships, internships, and further collaborations with research-based institutions.”
For their efforts, the national winners were granted traineeships or employment opportunities with Huawei, where they will gain further insider access to Huawei’s combination of programming and coding for data communication and computer networks. Similarly, the team received the Excellence Award in the regional finals in recognition of their outstanding participation, as well as an assortment of Huawei’s latest laptops and smartphones.
Dr. Zaher further commented on the support the students received to win this competition, “AUK winners dedicated a lot of time and effort to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to win this competition. The excellent program structure of the ABET-accredited computer engineering program at AUK, with its well-chosen core and elective courses, in the concentration of data communication and computer networks was the key factor of this success, along with the state-of-the-art labs and other resources provided by AUK to its students.”
This marks AUK’s first participation and qualification in Huawei’s ICT Competition.
AUK alumna Farah Al-Mutairi receiving a certificate from Huawei
AUK student Haider Asim receiving a certificate from Huawei
AUK alumna Farah Al-Mutairi, and AUK student Haider Asim at the Huawei ICT Competition
09, Dec 2018
AUK Students Showcase Recycled Designs at Re.Create
Thirteen students from the Department of Arts & Graphic Design at the American University of Kuwait participated in Re.Create, a recycling art competition and exhibition. The exhibition was held at Promenade Cultural Center, and was attended by a number of AUK students and their families, given that a majority of thirteen out of thirty selected projects on display were submissions from AUK students.
Using a range of recycled materials, students created furniture units, interior décor, product designs, lighting designs, accessories, and sculptures. One of the participating students Munira Al Majdali describes her design, “Salai (Sadu-Sarai-Light), a light fixture and a backpack is inspired by cultural objects that were used in Kuwait' history. The overall form represents a traditional Kuwaiti lantern, contrasted with a modern Sadu pattern at the bottom. Three Mihrab arches (found in center of mosques where people meet for prayers) are structured from recycled steel rods to create the lamp's form, which is wrapped with faux leather which represents leather water bottles 'Jirba' that were used to keep water cool. The finished product is multifunctional, serving as a light piece and a backpack, thereby paying homage to the travelers and nomads who settled in AlKout (fort) and who made the Kuwait we know today.”
Aside from contextual ingenuity of concept, 'Salai' is made completely from recycled metal, fabric, and faux leather. Students agree that events such as Re.Create provide them with opportunities to experience the relevance of their ideas in the public eye. It also encourages them to narrate their ideas critically before a jury panel, thereby developing communication skills, while at the same time raising public awareness on the critical environmental issue of creative recycling and recreating.
Participating students:
Farah Al Shaya
Abdullah AlDuraie
Mais Al Muhailan
Munira Al Majdali
Nervana Mohamed Salah Bakr
Shaikha Al Mousa
Hafsa Shabbir Hafiz
Louna Shareef
Abdullah F Al Duraie
Basmah F Al-Qatami
Rounan Wang
Dania G Al Marjeh
Taiba M Al Nafisi
Using a range of recycled materials, students created furniture units, interior décor, product designs, lighting designs, accessories, and sculptures. One of the participating students Munira Al Majdali describes her design, “Salai (Sadu-Sarai-Light), a light fixture and a backpack is inspired by cultural objects that were used in Kuwait' history. The overall form represents a traditional Kuwaiti lantern, contrasted with a modern Sadu pattern at the bottom. Three Mihrab arches (found in center of mosques where people meet for prayers) are structured from recycled steel rods to create the lamp's form, which is wrapped with faux leather which represents leather water bottles 'Jirba' that were used to keep water cool. The finished product is multifunctional, serving as a light piece and a backpack, thereby paying homage to the travelers and nomads who settled in AlKout (fort) and who made the Kuwait we know today.”
Aside from contextual ingenuity of concept, 'Salai' is made completely from recycled metal, fabric, and faux leather. Students agree that events such as Re.Create provide them with opportunities to experience the relevance of their ideas in the public eye. It also encourages them to narrate their ideas critically before a jury panel, thereby developing communication skills, while at the same time raising public awareness on the critical environmental issue of creative recycling and recreating.
Participating students:
Farah Al Shaya
Abdullah AlDuraie
Mais Al Muhailan
Munira Al Majdali
Nervana Mohamed Salah Bakr
Shaikha Al Mousa
Hafsa Shabbir Hafiz
Louna Shareef
Abdullah F Al Duraie
Basmah F Al-Qatami
Rounan Wang
Dania G Al Marjeh
Taiba M Al Nafisi
AUK student Munira Al-Majdali with her light and backpack product design ‘Salai’
Group photo of some of the participating AUK students at the exhibition
09, Dec 2018
AUK’s Arabic Debate Team Wins Second Place in the National Championship for Universities and Colleges Debates in Arabic
AUK's Arabic Debate Team won second place at the National Championship for Universities and Colleges Debates in Arabic, which took place at Kuwait International Law School.
Coached and trained by AUK Associate Professor of Arabic, Dr. Khitam Al-Khouli, and AUK Associate Professor of Near & Middle Eastern Studies, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan, the group of AUK students competed with 15 other universities and colleges from all over Kuwait in an intense 2-day event.
Some of the topics discussed included social, medicinal, economic, and environmental topics. AUK’s participating students included: Mona Singer, Amal Singer, Rawan Bou Taiban, Ali Al-Qallaf, Zahraa Mohammed, Yousef Al-Sahhaf, Sabah Al-Sabah, Ahmed Bin Sleem, and Nasser Al-Mutairi.
Dean of Student Affairs at AUK, Dr. Hanan Muzaffar, attended the closing ceremony to support the AUK team; she expressed her happiness with their outstanding performance, “The success of our students is admirable, I am truly proud of their level of sportsmanship, commitment, and overall achievements throughout the 2-day debate. We look forward to future progress and wish the AUK team the best of luck at the competition in Qatar,” said Dr. Muzaffar.
The team is among four other qualifying teams to represent Kuwait in the 5th annual International Universities Arabic Debate Competition that will take place in Qatar in March, 2019.
One of the members of the AUK Debate Team during the competition
Group photo of the AUK Debate Team with their coach, Professor Khitam Al-Khouli
27, Nov 2018
AUKMUN Receive 5 Awards at the Malaysia United Nations Conference
Members of the Model United Nations at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) attended an international MUN conference at the University of Malaysia where they represented both Kuwait and the United Kingdom. This conference was distinctive from other conferences as it emphasized inter-council interactions—a new addition to the MUN system.
The multilateral issues discussed throughout the conference included tackling topics such as global terrorism, the refugee crisis, and the use of weapons of mass destruction. AUK’s delegates returned from the MalayaMUN conference winning the Best Delegation in Diplomacy award. By showing their exceptional knowledge in foreign policy and dedication to resolving the global issues presented at the conference, all six delegates contributed to winning this award.
By sticking to UNSC priorities, AUKMUN’s President, Ali K. Al-Qallaf, was awarded with an honorable mention. Representing Kuwait, he proposed a ceasefire in Idlib to deliver humanitarian aid and to act as a mediator to find a political solution in Syria. Through mediating between the committees, AUKMUN’s Vice president, Ali Al-Khuraibet, was also awarded with an honorable mention. As a delegate representing Kuwait, he stressed the importance of economic support to refugees and reshaping the misconceived perception that ties refugee influx to rising terrorism. By investigating the uses of chemical weaponry, AUKMUN’s Secretary, Nada El-Gamal, proposed Kuwait’s solutions to the matters of creating and obtaining nuclear-free zones with regards to the use of WMDs.
With active contribution, AUKMUN’s Judicial Affairs Committee Chair, Hussain Khashab received an honorable mention award for representing the United Kingdom, as he advised the committee to have NATO intervene in the Syrian crisis. By accurately sticking to foreign policy, AUKMUN Member, Layan Al Ayoubi, won the Outstanding Delegate award at the EU committee, representing the UK. By calling upon the act of international real-time intelligence sharing to counterattack terrorism on a global level, the delegate highlighted the UK’s policies and managed to win this coveted award. With prodigious diplomacy, AUKMUN Member, Ridaab Marzuq, instructed the process of refugee societal integration as a means to aid in the future plans of the refugee resettlement program in the United Kingdom.
In AUKMUN’s successful conference in Malaysia, our delegates managed to win five awards for their exceptional excellence. Each delegate was granted a medal for their contribution to winning The Best Diplomacy Award in the international MalayaMUN 2018 conference.
Our AUKMUN delegation was accompanied by its faculty advisor, Dr. Gholamreza Vatandoust, Professor of Near Eastern Studies and History; he commented on the delegates’ performance in the conference, stating, “Our delegates performed exceptionally well, displaying their knowledge, teamwork, efficacy, and finesse, with grace and distinction, for which they earned The Best Diplomacy Award.”
Members of AUKMUN have previously won titles in other international conferences, and will continue their successful streak by participating in more meetings in the future.
The multilateral issues discussed throughout the conference included tackling topics such as global terrorism, the refugee crisis, and the use of weapons of mass destruction. AUK’s delegates returned from the MalayaMUN conference winning the Best Delegation in Diplomacy award. By showing their exceptional knowledge in foreign policy and dedication to resolving the global issues presented at the conference, all six delegates contributed to winning this award.
By sticking to UNSC priorities, AUKMUN’s President, Ali K. Al-Qallaf, was awarded with an honorable mention. Representing Kuwait, he proposed a ceasefire in Idlib to deliver humanitarian aid and to act as a mediator to find a political solution in Syria. Through mediating between the committees, AUKMUN’s Vice president, Ali Al-Khuraibet, was also awarded with an honorable mention. As a delegate representing Kuwait, he stressed the importance of economic support to refugees and reshaping the misconceived perception that ties refugee influx to rising terrorism. By investigating the uses of chemical weaponry, AUKMUN’s Secretary, Nada El-Gamal, proposed Kuwait’s solutions to the matters of creating and obtaining nuclear-free zones with regards to the use of WMDs.
With active contribution, AUKMUN’s Judicial Affairs Committee Chair, Hussain Khashab received an honorable mention award for representing the United Kingdom, as he advised the committee to have NATO intervene in the Syrian crisis. By accurately sticking to foreign policy, AUKMUN Member, Layan Al Ayoubi, won the Outstanding Delegate award at the EU committee, representing the UK. By calling upon the act of international real-time intelligence sharing to counterattack terrorism on a global level, the delegate highlighted the UK’s policies and managed to win this coveted award. With prodigious diplomacy, AUKMUN Member, Ridaab Marzuq, instructed the process of refugee societal integration as a means to aid in the future plans of the refugee resettlement program in the United Kingdom.
In AUKMUN’s successful conference in Malaysia, our delegates managed to win five awards for their exceptional excellence. Each delegate was granted a medal for their contribution to winning The Best Diplomacy Award in the international MalayaMUN 2018 conference.
Our AUKMUN delegation was accompanied by its faculty advisor, Dr. Gholamreza Vatandoust, Professor of Near Eastern Studies and History; he commented on the delegates’ performance in the conference, stating, “Our delegates performed exceptionally well, displaying their knowledge, teamwork, efficacy, and finesse, with grace and distinction, for which they earned The Best Diplomacy Award.”
Members of AUKMUN have previously won titles in other international conferences, and will continue their successful streak by participating in more meetings in the future.
Members of AUKMUN with their faculty advisor, Professor Gholam Vatandoust
26, Nov 2018
AUK Holds its Annual Media Exhibition
The Department of Communication and Media at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) held its annual Media Exhibition—an academic event showcasing more than 20 media projects of AUK’s students and alumni. The exhibition was held in an effort to support and recognize the participants for their academic excellence.
Dr. Mohammad Akbar, Associate Professor of Communication and organizer of the exhibition, commenced the event by noting the variety of featured projects that are related to advertising, media translation, broadcast journalism, and documentary production. He highlighted the event’s significance to both participants and attendees in, “broadening their knowledge by showing what the students have been doing, promoting their work, and creating incentives for other students.”
Following this, Dr. Akbar introduced two of AUK’s alumni, Ali Al-Ansary and Bassma Akbar, to discuss a selection of their locally and internationally-acclaimed projects. Here, Ali elaborated on his award-winning short films, None Missing Parts and The Mother, whereas Bassma discussed the business projects she completed upon pursuing her master’s degree.
This event enabled alumni to have a platform to network with students and share their experiences with the students to prepare them for professional life upon graduation.
In organizing this exhibition, Dr. Akbar also commended the Department’s commitment towards opening its first studio in 2019 on campus, which will elevate their practical learning initiative.
Dr. Mohammad Akbar, Associate Professor of Communication and organizer of the exhibition, commenced the event by noting the variety of featured projects that are related to advertising, media translation, broadcast journalism, and documentary production. He highlighted the event’s significance to both participants and attendees in, “broadening their knowledge by showing what the students have been doing, promoting their work, and creating incentives for other students.”
Following this, Dr. Akbar introduced two of AUK’s alumni, Ali Al-Ansary and Bassma Akbar, to discuss a selection of their locally and internationally-acclaimed projects. Here, Ali elaborated on his award-winning short films, None Missing Parts and The Mother, whereas Bassma discussed the business projects she completed upon pursuing her master’s degree.
This event enabled alumni to have a platform to network with students and share their experiences with the students to prepare them for professional life upon graduation.
In organizing this exhibition, Dr. Akbar also commended the Department’s commitment towards opening its first studio in 2019 on campus, which will elevate their practical learning initiative.
21, Nov 2018
AUK Inaugurates Alumni Fair
The Department of Alumni Affairs and Career Development (AACD) at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) inaugurated its Alumni Fair to provide alumni entrepreneurs a platform to promote their businesses to the AUK campus community.
The Alumni Fair featured 14 alumni businesses including, AAB World, Flare Fitness, Wild Coffee Bar, Loopty Loop, Moo Milkbar, Magnet, Kucha Sushi, Layan Jewelry, La Cantine, Bon, Sai Garden, Fikra Program, meemdesigns, and Anwar Behbehani. These businesses showcased an array of products and services such as craft, food, beverages, and lifestyle. Similarly, this event also highlighted the AACD’s Alumni Multipurpose Booth service, which enables alumni to promote their businesses on campus for a certain amount of time.
In commenting on their participation, various alumni noted the significant impact of AUK’s holistic support in launching their career; Ghadeer Ali (class of 2013) noted, “That’s what family does for each other!” she said as she showcased her crochet business Loopty Loop.
Similarly, Class of 2016’s Maryam Qamber (class of 2016) reflected on her career journey whilst exhibiting her glass artwork. She highlighted that studying at AUK helped her clarify what she wanted to do in the future. “Being back here with my own business brings back a rush of beautiful memories on how the journey began and how nothing is impossible. You just have to believe.”
Coordinator of Alumni Affairs, Jena Al-Awadhi commented on the event’s success, saying, “We admire our alumni’s drive and passion to pursue different career fields, which often time include entering entrepreneurial routes. Through our daily engagements, we have learned that many of our alumni have not only pursued different career paths, but have immensely succeeded in doing so. This event promotes our alumni as entrepreneurs and showcases their success stories, leadership, and innovation.”
This event also launched the AACD’s efforts to celebrate November as the International Career Development month where they plan to host workshops to guide students and alumni with their career paths.
The Alumni Fair featured 14 alumni businesses including, AAB World, Flare Fitness, Wild Coffee Bar, Loopty Loop, Moo Milkbar, Magnet, Kucha Sushi, Layan Jewelry, La Cantine, Bon, Sai Garden, Fikra Program, meemdesigns, and Anwar Behbehani. These businesses showcased an array of products and services such as craft, food, beverages, and lifestyle. Similarly, this event also highlighted the AACD’s Alumni Multipurpose Booth service, which enables alumni to promote their businesses on campus for a certain amount of time.
In commenting on their participation, various alumni noted the significant impact of AUK’s holistic support in launching their career; Ghadeer Ali (class of 2013) noted, “That’s what family does for each other!” she said as she showcased her crochet business Loopty Loop.
Similarly, Class of 2016’s Maryam Qamber (class of 2016) reflected on her career journey whilst exhibiting her glass artwork. She highlighted that studying at AUK helped her clarify what she wanted to do in the future. “Being back here with my own business brings back a rush of beautiful memories on how the journey began and how nothing is impossible. You just have to believe.”
Coordinator of Alumni Affairs, Jena Al-Awadhi commented on the event’s success, saying, “We admire our alumni’s drive and passion to pursue different career fields, which often time include entering entrepreneurial routes. Through our daily engagements, we have learned that many of our alumni have not only pursued different career paths, but have immensely succeeded in doing so. This event promotes our alumni as entrepreneurs and showcases their success stories, leadership, and innovation.”
This event also launched the AACD’s efforts to celebrate November as the International Career Development month where they plan to host workshops to guide students and alumni with their career paths.
AUK Alumni Fair held in the University’s campus
AUK alumnus displaying his business, Sai Garden
AUK alumna showcasing her crochet designs from her business, Loopty Loop
AUK alumna, Anwar Behbehani showcasing her artwork
20, Nov 2018
RISE Center at AUK Kicks Off 2018-2019 Lecture Series with a Talk on Autonomous Vehicles
The Center for Research in Informatics, Sciences, and Engineering (RISE) at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) hosted a public lecture presented by Dr. Hussein T. Mouftah, Tier 1 Canada Research Chair and Distinguished University Professor at the University of Ottawa, Canada. Dr. Mouftah’s lecture, entitled, Technology Trends for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles in Smart Cities, gave the audience a glimpse into the future of driverless vehicles.
The lecture began with an introduction by Dr. Mounib Khanafer, Assistant Professor of Computer and Electrical Engineering at AUK, who actually had Dr. Mouftah as his advisor for his master’s and PhD studies. Reflecting on his experience with Dr. Mouftah, Dr. Mounib told the audience, “From the first moment I noticed that Professor Mouftah is open for ideas, open for discussion, and he never imposed any plans on me or any ideas. He just let me have a very good experience with my graduate studies.”
During his lecture, Dr. Mouftah explained where we are in the development of autonomous vehicles and what still needs to be accomplished. He began by discussing the different stages of autonomy that a vehicle can reach. We have already reached the stage in which cars can park themselves and give lane assist warnings, but we have yet to reach full autonomy. Dr. Mouftah believes that this change is coming in the near future as a number of companies are already in the testing phases of their autonomous vehicles.
Even if someone can quickly fix all of the software bugs in autonomous vehicles, cities will need a strong and reliable infrastructure for charging them. Dr. Mouftah believes that all autonomous vehicles will be electric. As a result, he emphasized the importance of developing smart cities that will be able to produce enough electricity in a sustainable way. Instead of just relying on power plants—as most places do today—smart cities will diversify their power sources into solar, wind, and hydropower in order to generate enough electricity to keep things running without any chance of a blackout.
Dr. Mouftah also discussed one potential drawback to the development of smart vehicles. Since they will need to communicate with each other wirelessly, there may be many privacy and security concerns. However, Dr. Mouftah does not see this as a reason to stop the development, but rather as an issue that the younger generation can work on overcoming.
This event was the first official RISE speaker event of the 2018-2019 academic year. The RISE speaker series brings in a variety of experts from around the world to educate and inspire students and the public about topics related to informatics, sciences, and engineering. Reflecting on Dr. Mouftah’s talk, Dr. Amir Zeid, Director of RISE, said, “As a platform for community engagement, we welcome local and international experts from a wide variety of disciplines not only to share their expertise with us, but to inspire and empower our students and local community. We are privileged to kick off the RISE lecture series with Dr. Mouftah’s talk about autonomous smart vehicles and smart cities. Professor Mouftah also served as a judge for the NASA Space Apps challenge in Kuwait that was organized by RISE earlier this month. We are looking forward to long-term research collaborations with Professor Mouftah.”
About Dr. Hussein T. Mouftah
Dr. Mouftah has published over 1000 technical papers, 7 books and 48 book chapters. To his credit he has 12 patents and 140 industrial reports. He has received research grants and contracts totaling close to $40 million and he has supervised more than 300 highly qualified personnel of which 95 are master’s, 63 are PhD graduates, and 30 are post-doctoral fellows. Dr. Mouftah is a Fellow of the IEEE (1990), Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (2003), Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada (2005), and Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada RSC Academy of Sciences (2008).
About RISE
The AUK Center for Research in Informatics, Sciences, and Engineering (RISE) serves as AUK's primary source for multidisciplinary research and development (R&D) activities. The Center employs a holistic approach to R&D by integrating academic disciplines, and forging connections between local & international innovators, academia & industry, and technology & society.
The lecture began with an introduction by Dr. Mounib Khanafer, Assistant Professor of Computer and Electrical Engineering at AUK, who actually had Dr. Mouftah as his advisor for his master’s and PhD studies. Reflecting on his experience with Dr. Mouftah, Dr. Mounib told the audience, “From the first moment I noticed that Professor Mouftah is open for ideas, open for discussion, and he never imposed any plans on me or any ideas. He just let me have a very good experience with my graduate studies.”
During his lecture, Dr. Mouftah explained where we are in the development of autonomous vehicles and what still needs to be accomplished. He began by discussing the different stages of autonomy that a vehicle can reach. We have already reached the stage in which cars can park themselves and give lane assist warnings, but we have yet to reach full autonomy. Dr. Mouftah believes that this change is coming in the near future as a number of companies are already in the testing phases of their autonomous vehicles.
Even if someone can quickly fix all of the software bugs in autonomous vehicles, cities will need a strong and reliable infrastructure for charging them. Dr. Mouftah believes that all autonomous vehicles will be electric. As a result, he emphasized the importance of developing smart cities that will be able to produce enough electricity in a sustainable way. Instead of just relying on power plants—as most places do today—smart cities will diversify their power sources into solar, wind, and hydropower in order to generate enough electricity to keep things running without any chance of a blackout.
Dr. Mouftah also discussed one potential drawback to the development of smart vehicles. Since they will need to communicate with each other wirelessly, there may be many privacy and security concerns. However, Dr. Mouftah does not see this as a reason to stop the development, but rather as an issue that the younger generation can work on overcoming.
This event was the first official RISE speaker event of the 2018-2019 academic year. The RISE speaker series brings in a variety of experts from around the world to educate and inspire students and the public about topics related to informatics, sciences, and engineering. Reflecting on Dr. Mouftah’s talk, Dr. Amir Zeid, Director of RISE, said, “As a platform for community engagement, we welcome local and international experts from a wide variety of disciplines not only to share their expertise with us, but to inspire and empower our students and local community. We are privileged to kick off the RISE lecture series with Dr. Mouftah’s talk about autonomous smart vehicles and smart cities. Professor Mouftah also served as a judge for the NASA Space Apps challenge in Kuwait that was organized by RISE earlier this month. We are looking forward to long-term research collaborations with Professor Mouftah.”
About Dr. Hussein T. Mouftah
Dr. Mouftah has published over 1000 technical papers, 7 books and 48 book chapters. To his credit he has 12 patents and 140 industrial reports. He has received research grants and contracts totaling close to $40 million and he has supervised more than 300 highly qualified personnel of which 95 are master’s, 63 are PhD graduates, and 30 are post-doctoral fellows. Dr. Mouftah is a Fellow of the IEEE (1990), Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (2003), Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada (2005), and Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada RSC Academy of Sciences (2008).
About RISE
The AUK Center for Research in Informatics, Sciences, and Engineering (RISE) serves as AUK's primary source for multidisciplinary research and development (R&D) activities. The Center employs a holistic approach to R&D by integrating academic disciplines, and forging connections between local & international innovators, academia & industry, and technology & society.
AUK Assistant Professor of Computer and Electrical Engineering, Dr. Mounib Khanafer introducing (his former academic advisor) Dr. Hussein T. Mouftah
Members of the audience at the lecture
Dr. Hussein T. Mouftah, Tier 1 Canada Research Chair and Distinguished University Professor at the University of Ottowa, Canada
Director of RISE Center at AUK, Dr. Amir Zeid and Dr. Hussein Mouftah
Group photo of the speaker with the lecture attendees
05, Nov 2018
AUK Signs MOU with International Student Exchange Programs (ISEP)
AUK signed a Memorandum of Understanding with International Student Exchange Programs (ISEP) in an effort to increase international opportunities for its students. This agreement allows AUK students to study abroad at over 150 Kuwait Ministry of Higher Education-approved universities worldwide—including 90 universities in the United States and 36 in Europe. By joining this consortium, the University is expanding the number of study abroad opportunities available to its students, and creating an opportunity for students from around the world to come and study in Kuwait. Initial funding for this program has been provided by the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait through a grant from the U.S. Department of State.
The exchange program allows eligible students to study at any available host university during their sophomore spring semester or junior year. Students who study at one of the approved institutions will have a unique opportunity to explore a new place and culture while earning credit towards their degree. Those who study during the spring semester at a U.S. university can choose to extend their experience abroad with a summer internship. President and CEO of ISEP Dr. John S. Lucas stated, “ISEP is pleased to welcome the American University of Kuwait to our growing community of institutions dedicated to providing academic and cross-cultural learning experiences for all students. AUK’s strong programs in Arabic, social and behavioral sciences, international studies and graphic design will attract students from a number of countries, and we anticipate AUK students will be equally interested in the wide variety of fields of study available through our robust portfolio.”
In addition to providing individual students with life-changing study abroad opportunities, this program will benefit everyone on campus. Students from over 50 countries will be able to come for an exchange semester at AUK. The program will help promote cultural exchange between AUK and other universities around the globe.
ISEP Director of Member Relations, Pablo Ulloa-Perez visited the AUK campus and met with the University Provost, Rawda Awwad; Vice President for Admissions and Public Affairs, Amal Al-Binali; Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Lalitha Varadarajan; Dean of Student Affairs, Hanan Muzaffar; and Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning and Effectiveness, Tadd Kruse. The meeting took place ahead of information sessions that Ulloa-Perez hosted on how to apply to the exchange program and further details about the experience.
ISEP greatly expands the scope of study abroad opportunities available to AUK students. The University also has partnerships with George Washington University in Washington DC, The American University in Cairo in Egypt, SciencesPo in France, and Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Commenting on the significance of AUK’s expanding international opportunities for students, study abroad coordinator and Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning and Effectiveness Tadd Kruse says, “Study abroad is a life-changing opportunity for academic learning and personal growth, and by partnering with ISEP AUK stays true to its liberal arts identity by creating unique learning opportunities for students across four continents.”
About ISEP
ISEP was founded in 1979 to facilitate student exchanges throughout the world. The program has sent over 56,000 students abroad since its founding. Students are directly enrolled in courses at their host university to broaden their academic understanding by taking courses where information is presented through a different perspective than in their home country. ISEP strives to provide a full immersion experience to all students participating in its programs. In addition to learning abroad, ISEP programs help students develop cultural competency skills that are necessary for today’s global workforce.
The exchange program allows eligible students to study at any available host university during their sophomore spring semester or junior year. Students who study at one of the approved institutions will have a unique opportunity to explore a new place and culture while earning credit towards their degree. Those who study during the spring semester at a U.S. university can choose to extend their experience abroad with a summer internship. President and CEO of ISEP Dr. John S. Lucas stated, “ISEP is pleased to welcome the American University of Kuwait to our growing community of institutions dedicated to providing academic and cross-cultural learning experiences for all students. AUK’s strong programs in Arabic, social and behavioral sciences, international studies and graphic design will attract students from a number of countries, and we anticipate AUK students will be equally interested in the wide variety of fields of study available through our robust portfolio.”
In addition to providing individual students with life-changing study abroad opportunities, this program will benefit everyone on campus. Students from over 50 countries will be able to come for an exchange semester at AUK. The program will help promote cultural exchange between AUK and other universities around the globe.
ISEP Director of Member Relations, Pablo Ulloa-Perez visited the AUK campus and met with the University Provost, Rawda Awwad; Vice President for Admissions and Public Affairs, Amal Al-Binali; Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Lalitha Varadarajan; Dean of Student Affairs, Hanan Muzaffar; and Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning and Effectiveness, Tadd Kruse. The meeting took place ahead of information sessions that Ulloa-Perez hosted on how to apply to the exchange program and further details about the experience.
ISEP greatly expands the scope of study abroad opportunities available to AUK students. The University also has partnerships with George Washington University in Washington DC, The American University in Cairo in Egypt, SciencesPo in France, and Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Commenting on the significance of AUK’s expanding international opportunities for students, study abroad coordinator and Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning and Effectiveness Tadd Kruse says, “Study abroad is a life-changing opportunity for academic learning and personal growth, and by partnering with ISEP AUK stays true to its liberal arts identity by creating unique learning opportunities for students across four continents.”
About ISEP
ISEP was founded in 1979 to facilitate student exchanges throughout the world. The program has sent over 56,000 students abroad since its founding. Students are directly enrolled in courses at their host university to broaden their academic understanding by taking courses where information is presented through a different perspective than in their home country. ISEP strives to provide a full immersion experience to all students participating in its programs. In addition to learning abroad, ISEP programs help students develop cultural competency skills that are necessary for today’s global workforce.
(From Left) Dr. Rawda Awwad, Provost; Tadd Kruse, Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning and Effectiveness; Amal Al-Binali, Vice President for Admission and Public Affairs; Lalitha Varadarajan, Executive Director of Finance and Administration; Dr. Hanan Muzaffar, Dean of Student Affairs; Pablo Ulloa-Perez, ISEP Director of Member Relations
