News
AUK recently hosted the Art & Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition, a culminating academic showcase highlighting the creative and conceptual achievements of senior students in the Department of Art and Graphic Design. The exhibition brought together faculty members, students, alumni, and members of the wider community to celebrate a new generation of designers entering the professional field.
The Capstone Exhibition represents the final stage of the Graphic Design Program, where students translate years of academic training into fully realized projects. The works on display strongly emphasized research-driven design, visual storytelling, and problem-solving across diverse themes, including branding, social awareness, cultural identity, digital media, and experimental design.
Visitors to the exhibition were presented with a wide range of projects that demonstrated both technical proficiency and conceptual depth. Each project was developed through an intensive process that included research, ideation, critique, and refinement, guided closely by faculty mentors. The outcome was a collection of work that balanced creative expression with professional standards expected in the design industry.
Faculty members noted that the exhibition is not only a display of student talent, but also a reflection of the program’s academic rigor and teaching philosophy. Through continuous critique, mentorship, and curriculum development aligned with international standards, the Graphic Design Program aims to prepare students for real-world challenges while encouraging innovation and critical thinking.
The exhibition also served as a platform for dialogue between students and the professional community, offering attendees insight into the evolving role of graphic design in contemporary society. By addressing both local and global perspectives, the showcased projects highlighted the relevance of design as a tool for communication, impact, and cultural engagement.
The Art & Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition stands as a testament to AUK’s commitment to academic excellence and creative development. As graduates move forward into professional practice or advanced studies, the exhibition marks an important milestone, celebrating their growth, resilience, and readiness to contribute meaningfully to the creative industries.
Graphic Design Capstone poster
(Left-Right)- Prof. William Anderson, Associate Professor- Art & Graphic Design; Dean Ali Charara-College of Arts & Sciences; Dr. Aseel AlAwadhi, Vice President- Academic Affairs; Prof. Fahad Dhawi, Chair & Assistant Professor- Graphic Design; Prof. Rita Merheb, Associate Professor-Graphic Design; Prof. Ramy Khair, Associate Professor- Graphic Design
General photos from the exhibition
AUK is pleased to announce that its Design Program has received official notification from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) granting Substantial Equivalency for a period of ten years. The next comprehensive review is scheduled for the 2034–2035 academic year. Substantial Equivalency is the designation used by NASAD for non-US institutions seeking accreditation and affirms alignment with established international standards.
The renewal followed a comprehensive evaluation process that began in 2025 and included a self-study, documentation review, and site visit. The process was coordinated by Dr. Fahad A. Dhawi, Chair of the Department of Art and Graphic Design, in collaboration with faculty colleagues and the Dean’s Office.
Commenting on the recognition, Dr. Dhawi stated, “Receiving NASAD Substantial Equivalency for a ten-year period is a significant milestone for AUK’s Design Program. It confirms that our students are benefiting from an educational experience comparable in content, rigor, and outcomes to internationally benchmarked programs.”
The Design Program, housed within the College of Arts and Sciences, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Design (Graphic Design) grounded in a liberal arts framework, with an emphasis on visual communication, typography, design thinking, multimedia, and professional practice.
Dr. Ali Charara, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, said, “This ten-year Substantial Equivalency recognition from NASAD affirms that the curriculum, program content, resources, and faculty qualifications in AUK’s Design program are aligned with established international standards and reinforces AUK’s commitment to preparing graduates for global practice.”
AUK announced the participation of Associate Professor Rita Merheb in the Architecture & Design Research Conference (ADRC) 2025, held in Jeddah, KSA from December 4 to 6. During the conference, Merheb presented her research poster titled ‘Design Documentation in Education: AUK Student Projects Preserving Regional Visual Culture’, followed by an academic Q&A session focused on design education and cultural heritage.
The research examines seven capstone projects developed by students in AUK’s Graphic Design Program and explores how design education can contribute to the documentation and reinterpretation of Gulf and regional visual culture. Through publications, illustration, interactive media, and children’s storytelling, the projects demonstrate how students engage with oral histories and local narratives, translating cultural knowledge into contemporary visual and interactive formats within a higher education setting.
Merheb’s study positions design students as active contributors to cultural preservation and highlights the role of academic institutions in fostering community-oriented and research-driven creative practice. By integrating design documentation into the curriculum, the research underscores the potential of design education to support cultural continuity while advancing critical thinking and visual communication skills.
AUK commended Rita Merheb for representing the university at a prominent regional academic conference and for contributing to ongoing scholarly conversations on design pedagogy and cultural stewardship.
Rita Merheb is an Associate Professor of Graphic Design in the Art & Design Department at AUK. Her research poster is currently available as a conference submission file, and a PDF version can be shared upon request. The full research paper is accessible through the official website created for the study.
https://sites.google.com/view/ritamerheb/abstract
AUK hosted the Culture Showcase at the AUK Basketball Court, welcoming students, faculty, and guests to a vibrant university-wide event dedicated to cultural awareness, academic application, and global engagement.
The Culture Showcase is a termly diversity-focused initiative developed by Associate Professor Dr. Nabeel Sawalha from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) as part of the International Business course (BUS321). The project enables students to explore a country through established cultural theories, examining traditions, values, cuisine, attire, artifacts, and communication styles. As a core component of the BUS321 curriculum, the initiative promotes a neutral, informed, and respectful understanding of cultural diversity within an international business context.
What began as a course-based assignment has evolved into a large-scale community event. Students independently select countries from all continents, allowing for originality, ownership, and creativity. Their efforts result in a dynamic environment where academic theory intersects with experiential learning, transforming the campus into a global cultural space.
This semester marked a significant milestone with the expansion of the Culture Showcase to include international diplomatic engagement. For the first time, an embassy was invited as a guest of honor, with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China participating in collaboration with the China Cultural Center in Kuwait. The Embassy’s First Secretary formally opened the event, underscoring the importance of cultural exchange and academic partnership. The collaboration contributed to an exceptional turnout and a comprehensive presentation of Chinese culture across multiple dimensions.
Students represented 25 countries this semester: Kuwait, China, United States, Canada, Egypt, Palestine, Japan, France, India, Spain, Lebanon, Greece, Brazil, Philippines, Argentina, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Mexico, Colombia, Türkiye, Iran, Malaysia, Russia, and Morocco.
Participants reflected on the showcase as an opportunity to move beyond traditional classroom learning. Students representing Kuwait emphasized how presenting their own culture fostered pride, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of international business theories when applied to lived cultural experience. The Mexico team highlighted the value of immersive storytelling and academic integration, noting that recognition for their work affirmed the impact of thoughtful cultural representation. The team representing the Philippines described the experience as transformative, combining theory, creativity, and sensory engagement to bring cultural values and communication styles to life.
The Culture Showcase continues to serve as a platform where academic rigor, cultural storytelling, and community engagement converge. Through student initiative and institutional support, the event reinforces AUK’s commitment to global awareness, experiential learning, and meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.
Images from the event
AUK was proud to serve as the academic partner and venue sponsor for the 10th edition of LOYAC’s flagship program, KON for Social Entrepreneurship, and its closing ceremony held at AUK’s Theater.
In collaboration with Babson College, a global leader in entrepreneurship education, the KON program has, over the past decade, empowered youth across Kuwait by instilling values of leadership, social responsibility, and innovation. This year’s edition continued that legacy, bringing together ambitious young participants, sponsors, and community leaders to celebrate four weeks of intensive training, mentorship, and hands-on project development.
As the host institution, AUK provided an inspiring academic environment where participants presented nine innovative entrepreneurial projects addressing pressing social issues through sustainable solutions. The projects reflected a wide spectrum of community needs, ranging from environmental and educational initiatives to health and cultural programs.
Speaking on behalf of AUK, Mr. Paul Bassil, senior director of human capital and facilities management, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “The KON Program, in collaboration with LOYAC, is a transformative initiative that empowers young people through experiential learning, innovative leadership, and social responsibility. By fostering critical thinking and practical skills, it prepares the next generation to drive positive change in Kuwait and beyond.”
Ms. Futooh Al-Dallali, Member of the Board of Directors at LOYAC, said, “Today we celebrate the conclusion of the 10th edition of the KON Social Entrepreneurship Program, and with it we celebrate the fruits of ten years of hard work and a deep belief in the ability of youth to drive change and build a brighter future for our Kuwaiti society. Since its launch, the program has been more than just a training platform; it has been an incubator for ideas, a bridge between ambition and reality, and a true space for belonging and creativity. What we witnessed this year—in terms of intellectual maturity, innovative solutions, and participant diversity—reaffirms that investing in youth is the most valuable and impactful investment. The projects presented this year were not only unique in concept, but full of life, rooted in community needs, and built upon a clear vision for sustainable positive impact.”
AUK’s participation as an academic partner reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and youth empowerment, in alignment with Kuwait Vision 2035. Hosting KON on campus not only showcased AUK’s role as a hub for thought leadership but also reinforced the university’s mission to connect education with community impact.
As AUK continues to expand its partnerships with organizations like LOYAC, the university remains committed to nurturing a culture of innovation and preparing students and youth across Kuwait with the skills and mindset needed to shape a brighter, more sustainable future.
Mr. Paul Bassil receiving an award from Ms. Futooh Al-Dalali
Group Photo
AUK hosted its Student Media Production Event under the supervision of Professor Mohammed Akbar, associate professor of communication and media. The event showcased the exceptional creativity and innovation of AUK students in broadcasting, film production, and advertising, highlighting their growing impact in media content creation.
During the event, students presented their Mobile Videography Final projects, which included advertisements, short films, and documentaries, along with broadcast and news segments developed in past and current semesters. The two-hour program concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding student achievements in film production and media storytelling.
The event drew faculty, peers, and guests, who witnessed the high quality of student work and the promising future of AUK’s communication and media students.
Leading the event, Professor Akbar—an experienced media professional with over three decades in broadcast journalism and media translation—shared valuable insights throughout the presentations and acknowledged the remarkable contributions of participating teams.
This initiative reflects AUK’s mission to equip students with practical skills in media production, critical thinking, and storytelling, preparing them to thrive in the ever-evolving media landscape.
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Abdulrahman Almoqahwi
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Ali Habeeb
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Khaled Abdal
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Nour Zaouk
Dr. Akbar awarding the participating students
AUK held its graduation commencement for the class of 2025 on Wednesday 25th June conferring the degrees on 424 graduates—158 of which were from the College of Arts and Sciences, 143 from the College of Business and Economics, and 123 from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Amongst the 2025 cohort, 7 graduates were awarded highest honors (summa cum laude), 30 awarded high honors (magna cum laude), and 45 awarded honors (cum laude).
Held at The Arena Kuwait, the graduation ceremony was attended by Sheikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, founder and chair of AUK's Board of Trustees, members of the AUK board of trustees, diplomats, dignitaries, and families of this year's graduates.
Following the national anthem and the Holy Quran recitation, AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad reflected on the unique synergy between the nation's cultural heritage and the University’s academic vision. Drawing attention to the deep-rooted values that shape both Kuwait and AUK, she stated, “With its long-standing commitment to education, its enduring spirit of hospitality, and its deep civic values, Kuwait offers a cultural foundation that resonates profoundly with the ideals of a liberal arts education. It is this harmonious convergence—of global perspective and local tradition—that gives AUK its distinctive character and enduring relevance.”
The secretary-general of the Private Universities Council, Mr. Adel Ahmed Al-Bader spoke inspiringly to the graduates, stating that they are the driving force who are tasked with elevating Kuwait to new heights on the global stage through innovation, leadership, and commitment.
This year’s keynote speech was delivered by Her Excellency, Aliya Mawani, Ambassador of Canada to the State of Kuwait. She emphasized the importance of honing the skills acquired by the graduates during their time at AUK to inflict positive impacts, “The world beyond AUK will test your character and what you have learned here. In those moments, remember who you are, embrace your superpower, and use your unique talents and perspectives to write your own story and make your contribution to your communities, to Kuwait, and to the world in the way that feels true for you.”
Following the keynote address, AUK’s vice president for Student Affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan, announced the class valedictorian, Yousef Al-Hamad, who earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering with a minor in mathematics and a cumulative GPA of 3.94.
During his speech, Yousef reflected on the journey shared by the graduating class and offered an inspiring message of gratitude and hope, “Let us carry forward all our experiences into the brighter future, as each and every single one of them has shaped us just as they've shaped all those around us. Let us cherish these wonderful memories as we use them to soar higher through whatever life throws at us.”
The event then proceeded to the part of the ceremony most anticipated by the students—the distribution of their earned degrees. Upon the recommendations of the deans—Dr. Ali Charara, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Mohammad Elian, dean of the College of Business and Economics; and Dr. Mohamed El-Abd, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, President Awwad conferred upon the graduates their respective degrees. The graduates were then awarded their diplomas by President Awwad and respective college deans.
In keeping with the academic tradition, the graduates were requested to shift their tassels from right to left, thereby marking their official graduation from AUK. As the ceremony drew to its conclusion, the graduating class celebrated the occasion and took photos with their parents.
AUK is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence. Offering a diverse range of accredited undergraduate programs, the campus fosters collaboration and cultural diversity. AUK's state-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology and research laboratories, and students also enjoy recreational facilities such as the gymnasium and lounge. AUK is dedicated to empowering students with knowledge, skills, and experiences that transcend the classroom, shaping future leaders and change-makers.
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.
AUK hosted its 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony, celebrating outstanding student achievement, leadership, and dedication. The event, hosted by student Rana Abu Salah, honored the year’s most impactful contributions across academics, athletics, and campus life.
The evening began with a highlight video showcasing student-led initiatives, club activities, events, and sports accomplishments, followed by a speech from student Celine Sulaiman, who shared how attending an AUK Model United Nations conference inspired her to join the university.
Awards recognized excellence in student organizations, with Tala Al-Fadhala named Most Exceptional Member of the Year. The Finance Club’s Play it Forward 2 won Event of the Year, and the SPARC Club earned Most Improved Club. Club of the Year was jointly awarded to the Finance Club and Graphic Design Club for their exceptional programming and engagement.
In athletics, Yousif Al Boloushi was named Male Athlete of the Year and Hala Abu Hilwa Female Athlete of the Year. Academic honors went to Nuha Al Salhi (College of Arts & Sciences), Mariam Al Saif (College of Business and Economics), and Yousef Al-Hamad (College of Engineering and Applied Sciences).
The prestigious Wolf Pack Award went to Shoroq Bukhamseen and Mariam Abusharkh for their leadership and community spirit. The evening concluded with the President’s Award, presented to Fajer Al Sabah for her exceptional academic performance, leadership, and embodiment of AUK’s values.
Reflecting on the event, Omar Mehdi, Director of Student Life, said, “Our students are the heartbeat of campus life, and it’s an honor to celebrate their achievements.”
The ceremony celebrated not only individual success but also the vibrant community that defines the AUK experience.
Event MC, student Rana Abu Salah
Finance Club members receiving their Club of the Year award
Finance Club members receiving their Event of the Year award
Group photo of the Finance Club and Graphic Design Club members
Group photo of the Finance Club members with their awards
Sparc Club members receiving the Most Improved Club Award
Student athlete, Yousef Al-Bloushi receiving his Male Athlete of the Year award
Student, Fajer Al-Sabah receiving her award from the AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad
Student, Mariam Abusharkh receiving her WolfPack Award
Student, Nuha Al-Salhi receiving her academic honors award from the dean of the College of Arts & Sciences
Student, Shoroq Bukhamseen receiving her Wolf Pack Award
Student, Tala Al-Fadhala receiving her Most Exceptional Member of the Year award
Student, Yousef Al-Hamad receiving his award for academic honors from the dean of the College of Engineering & Applied Sciences
The College of Business and Economics welcomed brothers Essa and Yousef Al-Mezaiel—co-owners of Espresso Lab Kuwait—as guest speakers in the university’s long-running Entrepreneur in Residence series, which has been hosted since 2017 by Professor Salime Smadi, professor of organizational behavior.
The event drew business and engineering students eager to hear the inspiring story of two siblings who transitioned from the construction industry to the world of specialty coffee franchising. Essa Al-Mezaiel, an AUK alumnus, and his brother Yousef recounted their unexpected entrepreneurial pivot, sparked by a chance visit to a café in Amman, Jordan. That visit led them on an international journey through Jordan and Turkey in pursuit of the Espresso Lab franchise—a journey fuelled by passion, persistence, and faith.
Despite having no background in the food and beverage sector, the brothers trusted their instincts—and their palate. With support from family, they became the first Espresso Lab franchisees in Kuwait. Finding a suitable flagship location was a major hurdle, but their prior experience in construction proved invaluable when they secured and transformed a space in Marina Mall, Salmiya. With hands-on support from the franchise’s Turkish founder, they successfully launched the brand locally.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, group photo, and presentation of certificates of appreciation. Reflecting on the event, Professor Smadi said, “It is always an extremely proud moment when former students return to inspire the next generation of AUK entrepreneurs. This is the spirit of the Wolf Pack.”
Images from the event
AUK has taken a major step toward advancing women’s participation in STEM with the launch of a groundbreaking educational initiative in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kuwait. The project, titled Empowering Women Through Engineering Design, is supported by the Netherlands’ prestigious Shiraka Programme and unites AUK with the renowned Delft University of Technology (TU Delft).
The collaboration aims to enhance AUK’s Engineering Design course through international academic exchange, sustainability-centered innovation, and a clear focus on empowering women in engineering. The initiative includes a robust program of guest lectures, interdisciplinary workshops, and faculty exchange, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge-sharing and professional development.
The initiative is led by Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, associate professor of systems engineering at AUK’s College of Engineering & Applied Sciences (CEAS), who will also serve as the principal investigator for this initiative along with Dr. Mohammed El-Abd, dean of CEAS who will be serving as the co-principal investigator, in addition to Dr. Fatima-Zahra Abou Eddahab-Burke, assistant professor at TU Delft.
Commenting on the significance of this initiative, Dr. Mohammed said, “Securing the Shiraka grant in partnership with a prestigious institution like TU Delft is a proud milestone for CEAS,” said Prof. El-Abd. “This collaboration perfectly aligns with CEAS’s mission to offer high-quality engineering programs rooted in the core values of liberal arts education. It is also in line with our long-term vision focusing on innovative research and the positive contributions of our graduates.”
The Shiraka Programme, established in 2016 by the Netherlands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supports good governance and societal development across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Through thematic courses and institutional partnerships, Shiraka promotes democratic values, improved public service, and the inclusion of youth and women in governance.
This partnership reinforces AUK’s broader mission to cultivate an academic environment that promotes critical thinking, effective communication, personal growth, community service, and leadership—especially among underrepresented groups in STEM.
Group photo of the AUK and Dutch embassy delegation
