AUK Joins KIB’s H.I Innovation Program to Bridge Academia and the Banking Sector

AUK has proudly joined Kuwait International Bank’s (KIB) H.I Innovation Program, a pioneering six-week initiative launched in collaboration with Visa and five universities across Kuwait. This transformative program aims to bridge the gap between academia and the banking sector by offering university students the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges facing industry.
 
The H.I Innovation Program is designed to empower the next generation of innovators by enabling students to apply their academic knowledge to practical business scenarios. AUK, alongside partner institutions, has formalized this collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding with KIB, reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for impactful careers.
 
Over the course of the program, participating students will collaborate with innovation coaches and mentors from SIA Partners, KIB, and Visa. These experts will guide them through addressing pressing challenges in the banking sector. The program will culminate in a showcase of innovative solutions presented to a panel of judges, equipping students with critical problem-solving skills and practical industry insights.
 
This collaboration aligns seamlessly with AUK’s mission to provide students with a high-quality, forward-thinking education. By engaging with this program, AUK students will gain hands-on experience in the banking and digital industries, positioning them as future leaders ready to navigate and shape a rapidly evolving professional landscape.
 
Commenting on AUK’s participation, Dr. Rawda Awwad, President of AUK, remarked:“At AUK, we believe in creating opportunities that empower our students to become problem solvers and innovators. Our partnership with KIB on the H.I Innovation Program reflects our dedication to bridging the academic and professional worlds, ensuring our students are prepared to lead in an ever-changing global economy.”
 
Dr. Faisal AlReshaid, Assistant Dean in the College of Business and Economics at AUK, also expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative “This program is an excellent example of how academia and industry can collaborate to inspire creativity and innovation among students. It allows them to take theoretical knowledge from the classroom and apply it to real-world challenges, preparing them for future leadership roles in a highly competitive market.”
 
Through this collaboration, AUK students will not only gain a deeper understanding of the banking and digital industries but also contribute fresh perspectives to solving industry challenges. The university is committed to fostering meaningful partnerships that bridge academic theory with professional practice, enriching the educational experience and supporting Kuwait’s broader economic goals.
 
This partnership underscores AUK’s commitment to fostering collaborations that enrich student learning experiences while contributing to industry innovation and development in Kuwait.
 
 
 

Group photo of Dr. Rawda Awwad with participating partners