News
27, Mar 2024
AUK's Alumna-Led Workshop Inspires Artistry
AUK hosted a Clay Relief Sculpture Workshop at the Art Hub on its campus, led by AUK alumna, Sepideh Behbehani. The workshop spanned two days and aimed to help students create relief sculptures inspired by the "Saint Helena, Empress" artwork by Desiderio da Settignano.
During the workshop, Behbehani introduced the students to the principles and techniques of relief sculpture. She also provided historical context and examples to inspire the students. The students then worked with clay to create their interpretations of "Saint Helena, Empress," with Sepideh providing personal feedback and demonstrations to help them refine their skills.
Throughout the workshop, the emphasis was on creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Students had the opportunity to explore their artistic style while also gaining valuable insights into the techniques used by Desiderio da Settignano.
On the second day of the workshop, students completed their clay relief sculptures, gaining practical skills and a deeper understanding of the art form. Behbehani's guidance empowered the students to express themselves artistically and develop a greater appreciation for the complexities of relief sculpture.
Through events like these, AUK not only provides students with valuable skills and knowledge but also cultivates a sense of community and collaboration. Behbehani's dedication to sharing her expertise underscores the bond between AUK and its alumni, highlighting the University's role in producing high-quality graduates who return to give back to their alma mater.
During the workshop, Behbehani introduced the students to the principles and techniques of relief sculpture. She also provided historical context and examples to inspire the students. The students then worked with clay to create their interpretations of "Saint Helena, Empress," with Sepideh providing personal feedback and demonstrations to help them refine their skills.
Throughout the workshop, the emphasis was on creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Students had the opportunity to explore their artistic style while also gaining valuable insights into the techniques used by Desiderio da Settignano.
On the second day of the workshop, students completed their clay relief sculptures, gaining practical skills and a deeper understanding of the art form. Behbehani's guidance empowered the students to express themselves artistically and develop a greater appreciation for the complexities of relief sculpture.
Through events like these, AUK not only provides students with valuable skills and knowledge but also cultivates a sense of community and collaboration. Behbehani's dedication to sharing her expertise underscores the bond between AUK and its alumni, highlighting the University's role in producing high-quality graduates who return to give back to their alma mater.
General photos from the workshop
26, Mar 2024
Empowering Student Researchers: Welcoming New Research Assistants at AUK
The Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK recently organized a comprehensive workshop to welcome new student research assistants. Chosen by faculty supervisors from each college after a rigorous interview process, the workshop equipped students with invaluable skills, insights, and resources in the field of academic research.
The workshop was attended by faculty supervisors and was presented by Ms. Fadia Alkhras, reference and instruction librarian; Ms. Marwa Kandil, teaching assistant at the College of Engineering and Sciences (CEAS); Ms. Jayda AlFarouqi, senior student affairs coordinator; and Ms. Afsah Abdullah, ORG research assistant.
Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director, extended a warm welcome to all participants and provided a comprehensive overview to the student research assistants. Following his address, presenters shared their expertise.
The 11 student research assistants who were selected are: Myriam Bayomi, Raghad AboElhiba, Parisa Salahi, Giti Darvishkaei, Abdullah Sayadi, Noora AlSabah, Reem shady, Maryam Shehadeh, Aiesha Khazaal, Maya Abdin, and Maitham Al-Sarraf.
The workshop not only marks the induction of new student research assistants but also symbolizes a significant step forward in fostering a culture of research and academic excellence at the institution. AUK continuously nurtures and empowers its student researchers, laying the foundation for a future enriched by knowledge and exploration.
The workshop was attended by faculty supervisors and was presented by Ms. Fadia Alkhras, reference and instruction librarian; Ms. Marwa Kandil, teaching assistant at the College of Engineering and Sciences (CEAS); Ms. Jayda AlFarouqi, senior student affairs coordinator; and Ms. Afsah Abdullah, ORG research assistant.
Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director, extended a warm welcome to all participants and provided a comprehensive overview to the student research assistants. Following his address, presenters shared their expertise.
The 11 student research assistants who were selected are: Myriam Bayomi, Raghad AboElhiba, Parisa Salahi, Giti Darvishkaei, Abdullah Sayadi, Noora AlSabah, Reem shady, Maryam Shehadeh, Aiesha Khazaal, Maya Abdin, and Maitham Al-Sarraf.
The workshop not only marks the induction of new student research assistants but also symbolizes a significant step forward in fostering a culture of research and academic excellence at the institution. AUK continuously nurtures and empowers its student researchers, laying the foundation for a future enriched by knowledge and exploration.
Photo of AUK members
General photo of attendees
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13, Mar 2024
History of Kuwait: AUK Hosts 'Voices from the Occupation'
In conjunction with Kuwait National and Liberation days, AUK Library celebrated the opening of “Voices from the Occupation,” an exhibition by the Oral History and Documentation Project (OHDP), supported by Kuwait Projects Company (KIPCO) and in collaboration with the Contemporary Art platform (CAP).
After its successful showcase at CAP, the exhibition was extended to AUK. This provided students with an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into the project and engage with firsthand accounts of individuals who witnessed the Iraqi occupation and subsequent liberation of Kuwait in 1991.
The exhibition consisted of several stations with posters and audio segments selected from the original interviews. The audio parts focused on narrators’ experiences during the occupation from different standpoints depending on their field. This format allowed visitors to gain a multifaceted understanding of the occupation through the diverse narratives presented.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, attended the opening ceremony alongside Mr. Samer Khanachet, AUK board of trustees member and Deputy KIPCO Group Chief Executive Officer; and Ms. Eman Al Awadhi, KIPCO Group Senior Vice President – Corporate Communications & Investor Relations.
The exhibition was scheduled to be on display for an entire week.
To listen to the oral history interviews, visit the website https://oralhistory.auk.edu.kw
After its successful showcase at CAP, the exhibition was extended to AUK. This provided students with an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into the project and engage with firsthand accounts of individuals who witnessed the Iraqi occupation and subsequent liberation of Kuwait in 1991.
The exhibition consisted of several stations with posters and audio segments selected from the original interviews. The audio parts focused on narrators’ experiences during the occupation from different standpoints depending on their field. This format allowed visitors to gain a multifaceted understanding of the occupation through the diverse narratives presented.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, attended the opening ceremony alongside Mr. Samer Khanachet, AUK board of trustees member and Deputy KIPCO Group Chief Executive Officer; and Ms. Eman Al Awadhi, KIPCO Group Senior Vice President – Corporate Communications & Investor Relations.
The exhibition was scheduled to be on display for an entire week.
To listen to the oral history interviews, visit the website https://oralhistory.auk.edu.kw
AUK and KIPCO members
AUK and KIPCO members
AUK and KIPCO members
AUK faculty and students
General photo of the exhibition
11, Mar 2024
AUK Advocates for Cybersecurity Education: Sponsors Cyberchamps
AUK sponsored Cyberchamps, alongside the National Cyber Security Center and Ministry of Education. Dr. Mounib Khanafer, associate professor of computer and electrical engineering, was a member of the judging panel.
Organized by the IDRAK academy, the event aimed at spreading cybersecurity awareness among high school students. Over three days, 13 teams from different schools were assigned programming tasks related to cyber-attacks and hacking. Teams pitched ideas on how to educate school students on cybersecurity concepts, and ideas ranged from creating educative games to informative websites.
AUK's sponsorship and Dr. Mounib's active participation in digital initiatives demonstrate the commitment the institution has to staying relevant in today's digital age. By participating in hackathons as such, AUK continues to excel within the ever-changing landscape of technology and communication.
Organized by the IDRAK academy, the event aimed at spreading cybersecurity awareness among high school students. Over three days, 13 teams from different schools were assigned programming tasks related to cyber-attacks and hacking. Teams pitched ideas on how to educate school students on cybersecurity concepts, and ideas ranged from creating educative games to informative websites.
AUK's sponsorship and Dr. Mounib's active participation in digital initiatives demonstrate the commitment the institution has to staying relevant in today's digital age. By participating in hackathons as such, AUK continues to excel within the ever-changing landscape of technology and communication.
Dr. Mounib Khanafer at the Cyberchamps hackathon
11, Mar 2024
AUK Amplifies Voices: Hosts the IOM Global Migration Film Festival
AUK hosted the Global Migration Film Festival (GMFF), an initiative launched globally by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in 2016, where it takes the opportunity to feature films and documentaries that aim to deepen awareness and understanding of migration.
Elena Brunello, one of the film directors, inaugurated the event by introducing the documentary, entitled 'The Climate Limbo,’ which explores the link between climate change and migration. The film was followed by a panel discussion, bringing together four AUK panelists, each representing their departments, including the AUK departments of Art & Graphic Design, International Relations, Social and Behavioral Sciences and Mathematics and Natural Sciences.
Assistant professor of Graphic Design, Dr. Fahad Dhawi, highlighted the importance of such events, “We are honored to host GMFF once again on our campus. At AUK, we believe in the power of education and dialogue to address pressing global issues, advocating for positive change. Through thought-provoking films like 'The Climate Limbo,' we aim to shed light on the intricate relationship between climate change and migration, fostering empathy and understanding among our community."
Commenting on the event, Mazen AboulHosn, IOM Kuwait’s Chief of Mission, said, “This year marks the sixth year of the IOM missions’ GMFF event organized in Kuwait, and we are proud to continue this collaboration for the fourth time with AUK. Through this screening and panel discussion, we hope to create awareness about the plight of climate change and migration and foster a greater understanding of the complex issues at hand”.
AUK is an advocate for promoting cultural understanding, social awareness, and academic discourse on pressing global issues. Through initiatives like hosting the GMFF, the University aims to engage its students, faculty, and the wider community in meaningful conversations about topics such as migration, climate change, and their intersection.
Elena Brunello, one of the film directors, inaugurated the event by introducing the documentary, entitled 'The Climate Limbo,’ which explores the link between climate change and migration. The film was followed by a panel discussion, bringing together four AUK panelists, each representing their departments, including the AUK departments of Art & Graphic Design, International Relations, Social and Behavioral Sciences and Mathematics and Natural Sciences.
Assistant professor of Graphic Design, Dr. Fahad Dhawi, highlighted the importance of such events, “We are honored to host GMFF once again on our campus. At AUK, we believe in the power of education and dialogue to address pressing global issues, advocating for positive change. Through thought-provoking films like 'The Climate Limbo,' we aim to shed light on the intricate relationship between climate change and migration, fostering empathy and understanding among our community."
Commenting on the event, Mazen AboulHosn, IOM Kuwait’s Chief of Mission, said, “This year marks the sixth year of the IOM missions’ GMFF event organized in Kuwait, and we are proud to continue this collaboration for the fourth time with AUK. Through this screening and panel discussion, we hope to create awareness about the plight of climate change and migration and foster a greater understanding of the complex issues at hand”.
AUK is an advocate for promoting cultural understanding, social awareness, and academic discourse on pressing global issues. Through initiatives like hosting the GMFF, the University aims to engage its students, faculty, and the wider community in meaningful conversations about topics such as migration, climate change, and their intersection.
AUK Panelists during the event
11, Mar 2024
AUK Library Fosters a Culture of Reading: Organizes Campus-wide Bookfair with Aafaq Bookstore
AUK Library organized a week-long bookfair for the campus community, in collaboration with Aafaq Bookstore and the English Bookshop. The bookfair took place on campus where books on different subjects were presented, featuring a wide range in Arabic and English tailored to all interests.
The Aafaq team was present on campus to handle the bookfair and update the collections based on interests and needs. Students, faculty, and staff had the opportunity to learn about the latest publications and obtain copies of their selected readings, whether for leisure, self-development or study purposes.
The AUK Library continuously fosters a culture of reading by highlighting its importance through various events and activities such as the bookfair.
The Aafaq team was present on campus to handle the bookfair and update the collections based on interests and needs. Students, faculty, and staff had the opportunity to learn about the latest publications and obtain copies of their selected readings, whether for leisure, self-development or study purposes.
The AUK Library continuously fosters a culture of reading by highlighting its importance through various events and activities such as the bookfair.
General photos of the bookfair
11, Mar 2024
Beyond the Classroom: AUK Students Explore Comics from Industry Expert
AUK students participated in Hashem Behbehani’s Comic Strip Ideas Workshop, hosted by the Promenade Culture Centre. The workshop aimed to provide aspiring illustrators with insights and techniques to develop compelling political cartoon concepts.
Behbehani shared his expertise in storytelling, character development, and visual narrative techniques, guiding AUK students through the process of generating unique and engaging concepts for their comics. He emphasized the importance of building well-rounded characters, crafting intriguing plotlines, and utilizing visual storytelling techniques and principles of design to captivate readers.
Throughout the workshop, students explored various brainstorming exercises and creative prompts to spark their imagination and refine their ideas. They received feedback on their drawings and engaged in constructive discussions with Behbehani and fellow attendees.
AUK is keen on nurturing the creative talents of its students, and Hashem Behbehani's Comic Strip Ideas Workshop is a testament to this commitment. By providing a platform for aspiring illustrators to learn from industry experts like Behbehani, AUK empowers its students to explore their creativity and develop their skills.
Behbehani shared his expertise in storytelling, character development, and visual narrative techniques, guiding AUK students through the process of generating unique and engaging concepts for their comics. He emphasized the importance of building well-rounded characters, crafting intriguing plotlines, and utilizing visual storytelling techniques and principles of design to captivate readers.
Throughout the workshop, students explored various brainstorming exercises and creative prompts to spark their imagination and refine their ideas. They received feedback on their drawings and engaged in constructive discussions with Behbehani and fellow attendees.
AUK is keen on nurturing the creative talents of its students, and Hashem Behbehani's Comic Strip Ideas Workshop is a testament to this commitment. By providing a platform for aspiring illustrators to learn from industry experts like Behbehani, AUK empowers its students to explore their creativity and develop their skills.
General photos of the workshop
10, Mar 2024
AUK Psychologists Collaborate on Influential Nature Communications Study
In a pioneering study published in Nature Communications, an open access, multidisciplinary journal dedicated to publishing high-quality research, faculty from AUK partnered with an international research team to reveal the significant psychological effects of the Ukraine War on well-being. AUK psychologists Dr. Rita El-Haddad and Dr. Stavros Hadjisolomou collaborated with over 50 researchers worldwide in this study, which examined 45,000 surveys from 1,300 individuals across 17 European countries.
The team employed innovative methodologies, including smartphone sensing and experience sampling, to provide insights to examine the relationship between the Ukraine War and its everyday impact on individuals. Conducted from late 2021 to the summer of 2022, the study tracked mood fluctuations among participants, offering a unique window into their collective psyche during the initial stages of the war.
The study, focusing on mental health, adds a further dimension to the debate on the humanitarian, political, and economic consequences of the war. While people’s well-being was stable before the war broke out, there was a collective downturn on the day of the Russian invasion. However, when the researchers analyzed how people recovered psychologically from this shock, they found systematic differences.
"This study showcases not only the war's direct and far-reaching psychological impact but, more importantly, highlights the significant influence of personality traits on resilience and recovery. Our findings indicate that individuals with less stable personality profiles experience prolonged distress compared to higher-stability participants. These observations underline the necessity for future studies examining tailored mental health interventions and support systems rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to mitigate the psychological effects of global crises,” explains Dr. Hadjisolomou.
Dr. El-Haddad further emphasized the broader implications of the research findings, “Beyond the immediate repercussions of the Ukraine War, such as forced displacement of people and global economic disruptions, we need to consider the negative impact on global mental health from the consumption of news media about the war.”
As the only institution from the Arab region, AUK's involvement in this groundbreaking study signifies the University’s commitment to addressing global challenges but also positions it as a leader in international research collaboration. The findings build upon previous collaborative work by Drs. El-Haddad and Hadjisolomou and the international team on coping with global crises (such as the Global Experience Sampling Method Study), further establishing AUK as a pivotal contributor to global psychological research.
The team employed innovative methodologies, including smartphone sensing and experience sampling, to provide insights to examine the relationship between the Ukraine War and its everyday impact on individuals. Conducted from late 2021 to the summer of 2022, the study tracked mood fluctuations among participants, offering a unique window into their collective psyche during the initial stages of the war.
The study, focusing on mental health, adds a further dimension to the debate on the humanitarian, political, and economic consequences of the war. While people’s well-being was stable before the war broke out, there was a collective downturn on the day of the Russian invasion. However, when the researchers analyzed how people recovered psychologically from this shock, they found systematic differences.
"This study showcases not only the war's direct and far-reaching psychological impact but, more importantly, highlights the significant influence of personality traits on resilience and recovery. Our findings indicate that individuals with less stable personality profiles experience prolonged distress compared to higher-stability participants. These observations underline the necessity for future studies examining tailored mental health interventions and support systems rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to mitigate the psychological effects of global crises,” explains Dr. Hadjisolomou.
Dr. El-Haddad further emphasized the broader implications of the research findings, “Beyond the immediate repercussions of the Ukraine War, such as forced displacement of people and global economic disruptions, we need to consider the negative impact on global mental health from the consumption of news media about the war.”
As the only institution from the Arab region, AUK's involvement in this groundbreaking study signifies the University’s commitment to addressing global challenges but also positions it as a leader in international research collaboration. The findings build upon previous collaborative work by Drs. El-Haddad and Hadjisolomou and the international team on coping with global crises (such as the Global Experience Sampling Method Study), further establishing AUK as a pivotal contributor to global psychological research.
Dr. Rita El-Haddad
Dr. Stavros Hadjisolomou
10, Mar 2024
The American University of Kuwait Awards Faculty for Pioneering Research Contributions
AUK hosted the prestigious Faculty Intellectual Recognition Ceremony at the AUK theater, organized by the Office of Research and Grants (ORG). Dedicated to honoring the exceptional research endeavors of its esteemed faculty members spanning diverse disciplines, the ceremony was attended by AUK’s entire faculty body.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awaad, emphasized how the faculty’s contributions enrich the University's standing, “Your role in this journey is immeasurable. You've taken knowledge and turned it into a living, breathing part of our campus, pushing boundaries and inspiring not just our students but every one of us to think bigger and do better. It's your hard work and insight that have made AUK a place where education transcends the classroom, where ideas ignite change. What you provide our students goes beyond academics; it's the toolkit for success in life.”
Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director, provided insightful statistics illustrating the faculty's outstanding research output. Notably, many publications garnered recognition in SCOPUS, which combines an expertly curated abstract and citation database with enriched data and linked scholarly literature across a wide variety of disciplines.
Acknowledging the scholarly achievements of faculty members across all colleges, Ms. Afsah Abdullah, ORG research assistant, highlighted the pivotal role of research within the academic community. Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, and Dr. Clark Stoeckley were among the distinguished recipients awarded for their exemplary research endeavors that contributed significantly to their respective fields.
The Faculty Intellectual Recognition Ceremony provided a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of AUK's faculty members, inspiring present and future generations of scholars to pursue excellence in research and academia.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awaad, emphasized how the faculty’s contributions enrich the University's standing, “Your role in this journey is immeasurable. You've taken knowledge and turned it into a living, breathing part of our campus, pushing boundaries and inspiring not just our students but every one of us to think bigger and do better. It's your hard work and insight that have made AUK a place where education transcends the classroom, where ideas ignite change. What you provide our students goes beyond academics; it's the toolkit for success in life.”
Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director, provided insightful statistics illustrating the faculty's outstanding research output. Notably, many publications garnered recognition in SCOPUS, which combines an expertly curated abstract and citation database with enriched data and linked scholarly literature across a wide variety of disciplines.
Acknowledging the scholarly achievements of faculty members across all colleges, Ms. Afsah Abdullah, ORG research assistant, highlighted the pivotal role of research within the academic community. Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, and Dr. Clark Stoeckley were among the distinguished recipients awarded for their exemplary research endeavors that contributed significantly to their respective fields.
The Faculty Intellectual Recognition Ceremony provided a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of AUK's faculty members, inspiring present and future generations of scholars to pursue excellence in research and academia.
Dr. Rawda Awwad giving her speech
Dr. Iyad Abu Doush giving his speech
Awardees with Dr. Rawda Awwad and college deans
Dr. Ahmad Alsaber receiving award
General photo of the ceremony
07, Mar 2024
AUK Appoints Dr. Mohamed El-Abd as Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences
AUK professor of computer engineering, Dr. Mohamed El-Abd, has been appointed as the new dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS). Dr. El-Abd, who joined AUK in 2010, has distinguished himself through his commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership.
Dr. El-Abd has made significant contributions to AUK’s curriculum, teaching a wide array of courses that have enriched the University’s computer engineering program, among others. His dedication to fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment, alongside his adaptive teaching philosophy, has impacted our students' educational journey, especially in navigating the challenges of the current times.
In his previous role as associate dean, Dr. El-Abd showcased leadership and dedication to advancing CEAS's mission. His efforts in streamlining assessment plans, chairing crucial committees, and enhancing our academic standards have played an important role in the College's strategic development.
Beyond his administrative service, Dr. El-Abd has been a vanguard in the engineering field, founding the IEEE Symposium on Cooperative Metaheuristics and co-chairing the 2023 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference, among other notable contributions.
Dr. El-Abd's research work, particularly in nature-inspired algorithms and engineering education, is recognized globally, with a prolific publication record and acknowledgments such as being named among the top 2% of researchers in Artificial Intelligence. His leadership in securing grants and awards, including the AUK-Dartmouth Fellowship, underscores his dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
His extensive experience, coupled with his passion for education and research, promises to advance AUK’s College forward in preparing future leaders and innovators.
Dr. El-Abd has made significant contributions to AUK’s curriculum, teaching a wide array of courses that have enriched the University’s computer engineering program, among others. His dedication to fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment, alongside his adaptive teaching philosophy, has impacted our students' educational journey, especially in navigating the challenges of the current times.
In his previous role as associate dean, Dr. El-Abd showcased leadership and dedication to advancing CEAS's mission. His efforts in streamlining assessment plans, chairing crucial committees, and enhancing our academic standards have played an important role in the College's strategic development.
Beyond his administrative service, Dr. El-Abd has been a vanguard in the engineering field, founding the IEEE Symposium on Cooperative Metaheuristics and co-chairing the 2023 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference, among other notable contributions.
Dr. El-Abd's research work, particularly in nature-inspired algorithms and engineering education, is recognized globally, with a prolific publication record and acknowledgments such as being named among the top 2% of researchers in Artificial Intelligence. His leadership in securing grants and awards, including the AUK-Dartmouth Fellowship, underscores his dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
His extensive experience, coupled with his passion for education and research, promises to advance AUK’s College forward in preparing future leaders and innovators.
Dr. Mohamed El-Abd
