News
04, May 2009
MUNAUK visits the Bahraini Ambassador to Kuwait
The Executive Committee of the Model United Nations at the American University of Kuwait visited His Excellency Sheikh Khaleefa bin Hamad Al Khaleefa, the Kingdom of Bahrain's Ambassador to Kuwait.
MUNAUK President Abdulaziz Safi Al Mutawa, Vice President Norah Al-Hilaly, and Secretary Mustapha Abou-Houeili, accompanied by MUNAUK Faculty Advisor Shareefa Al-Adwani, visited the Ambassador at the Kingdom of Bahrain Embassy in order to discuss the experiences of diplomats engaged in full-time decision-making, conflict resolution, and diplomacy.
When asked about his experience as a diplomat and his advice to the younger generation about becoming a diplomat, he emphasized the importance of educating future generations by using both today's academic standards and the past traditions. He noted that the remembrance of the past, culture, and tradition strengthen students to become diplomats that may faithfully serve their countries.
He also introduced the MUNAUK delegation to the Bahraini Chief Liaison of Education, who monitors educational issues between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Kuwait. He noted that there was a brotherhood between the countries, and stated this strong relationship would endure time.
MUNAUK President Abdulaziz Safi Al Mutawa, Vice President Norah Al-Hilaly, and Secretary Mustapha Abou-Houeili, accompanied by MUNAUK Faculty Advisor Shareefa Al-Adwani, visited the Ambassador at the Kingdom of Bahrain Embassy in order to discuss the experiences of diplomats engaged in full-time decision-making, conflict resolution, and diplomacy.
When asked about his experience as a diplomat and his advice to the younger generation about becoming a diplomat, he emphasized the importance of educating future generations by using both today's academic standards and the past traditions. He noted that the remembrance of the past, culture, and tradition strengthen students to become diplomats that may faithfully serve their countries.
He also introduced the MUNAUK delegation to the Bahraini Chief Liaison of Education, who monitors educational issues between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Kuwait. He noted that there was a brotherhood between the countries, and stated this strong relationship would endure time.
MUNAUK visits the Bahraini Ambassador to Kuwait
30, Apr 2009
AUK holds 5th Annual Career Fair
Over twenty local and international companies were present at AUK's 5th Career Fair this past Tuesday, an event put on annually by the Student Success Center.
Students were strongly encouraged to dress in business attire and bring their CV to present to the lineup of companies which included many of Kuwait's most prestigious establishments. The participating companies set up booths to meet and greet the 300 students who attended the event held at AUK's auditorium in the Liberal Arts building.
The participating companies include, Deloitte as Platinum sponsor, KAMCO as the Gold sponsor, BNP Paribas, NBK and Global Investment House as Silver sponsors. Also present, MGRP, KPMG, Kuwait United Company (KUC), Ernst & Young, Commercial Bank of Kuwait (CBK), Gulf Talent, Ali Abdulwahab Company, AUK, Wazeefa1, InterContinental Hotels, Optimal Solutions, Agility Logistics, United Labs, SkillRATE Advisors, Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK), Burgan Bank, Commercial Facilities Co., LoYAC, BKME.
Students were strongly encouraged to dress in business attire and bring their CV to present to the lineup of companies which included many of Kuwait's most prestigious establishments. The participating companies set up booths to meet and greet the 300 students who attended the event held at AUK's auditorium in the Liberal Arts building.
The participating companies include, Deloitte as Platinum sponsor, KAMCO as the Gold sponsor, BNP Paribas, NBK and Global Investment House as Silver sponsors. Also present, MGRP, KPMG, Kuwait United Company (KUC), Ernst & Young, Commercial Bank of Kuwait (CBK), Gulf Talent, Ali Abdulwahab Company, AUK, Wazeefa1, InterContinental Hotels, Optimal Solutions, Agility Logistics, United Labs, SkillRATE Advisors, Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK), Burgan Bank, Commercial Facilities Co., LoYAC, BKME.
Cutting of the ribbon by the AUK President Dr. Marina Tolmacheva and Deloitte, the platinum sponsor for the fair
Some of the participating companies
AUK Alumni return to AUK as representatives from different companies
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28, Apr 2009
"Higher Education in the GCC: Emerging Trends and Models"
AUK's Fourth Annual Liberal Arts Conference
The American University of Kuwait held its Fourth Annual Liberal Arts Conference on 26 and 27 April, 2009. The topic of the conference was "Higher Education in the GCC: Emerging Trends and Models".
Introductory remarks were made by AUK President Dr. Marina Tolmacheva who set the tone by highlighting the aspirations of universities in the GCC saying "While AUK may be unique in its commitment to liberal arts education, we find that colleagues at other Kuwaiti and GCC institutions have similar concerns and aspirations and strive to better define and support the learning outcomes that best fit both the academic environment and employment needs and expectations of the region." The conference coordinator was Dr. Shoma Munshi, Division Head of Social Sciences at AUK.
Dartmouth College President James Wright also addressed the audience via video message supporting and encouraging the progress AUK has made so far and specifically with regards to this annual conference. AUK Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Nizar Hamzeh said the theme of the conference is now a focal point for political leaders interested in reforming educational policies.
The keynote speaker was Prof. Dale Eickelman, Ralph and Richard Lazarus Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations, Dartmouth College, who set the tone of the conference by giving the audience a general look at the history of higher education in the region and the range of models being utilized. He point out that "there has been a shift to mass higher education throughout the Arabian Peninsula, a phenomenon basic to reshaping notions of self and society in the 21st century... We need to know more about how the shift to mass higher education changes how people think about themselves and their society." In subsequent presentations panelists echoed this them elaborating on the effects that higher education and society have on one another.
The conference was divided into three panels. In the first panel on "Case Studies of Accreditation and Curriculum", practitioners from universities in the region shared their experiences. The second panel on "Technology, Curricula and Research" highlighted how learning outcomes are delivered in classroom settings. The third panel on "Emerging Trends" discussed the new direction private higher education is now taking in the GCC.
In addition to AUK faculty and students, the conference also had participants from other institutions including Kuwait University; Gulf University of Science and Technology; Arab Open University; Zayed University, Qatar University; American University of Cairo; Carnegie Mellon, Qatar Foundation; and California State University.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The lanuage of instruction is English. AUK and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA) have worked closley together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding. More information on Dartmouth College can be found at www.dartmouth.edu
The American University of Kuwait held its Fourth Annual Liberal Arts Conference on 26 and 27 April, 2009. The topic of the conference was "Higher Education in the GCC: Emerging Trends and Models".
Introductory remarks were made by AUK President Dr. Marina Tolmacheva who set the tone by highlighting the aspirations of universities in the GCC saying "While AUK may be unique in its commitment to liberal arts education, we find that colleagues at other Kuwaiti and GCC institutions have similar concerns and aspirations and strive to better define and support the learning outcomes that best fit both the academic environment and employment needs and expectations of the region." The conference coordinator was Dr. Shoma Munshi, Division Head of Social Sciences at AUK.
Dartmouth College President James Wright also addressed the audience via video message supporting and encouraging the progress AUK has made so far and specifically with regards to this annual conference. AUK Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Nizar Hamzeh said the theme of the conference is now a focal point for political leaders interested in reforming educational policies.
The keynote speaker was Prof. Dale Eickelman, Ralph and Richard Lazarus Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations, Dartmouth College, who set the tone of the conference by giving the audience a general look at the history of higher education in the region and the range of models being utilized. He point out that "there has been a shift to mass higher education throughout the Arabian Peninsula, a phenomenon basic to reshaping notions of self and society in the 21st century... We need to know more about how the shift to mass higher education changes how people think about themselves and their society." In subsequent presentations panelists echoed this them elaborating on the effects that higher education and society have on one another.
The conference was divided into three panels. In the first panel on "Case Studies of Accreditation and Curriculum", practitioners from universities in the region shared their experiences. The second panel on "Technology, Curricula and Research" highlighted how learning outcomes are delivered in classroom settings. The third panel on "Emerging Trends" discussed the new direction private higher education is now taking in the GCC.
In addition to AUK faculty and students, the conference also had participants from other institutions including Kuwait University; Gulf University of Science and Technology; Arab Open University; Zayed University, Qatar University; American University of Cairo; Carnegie Mellon, Qatar Foundation; and California State University.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The lanuage of instruction is English. AUK and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA) have worked closley together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding. More information on Dartmouth College can be found at www.dartmouth.edu
Dr. Shoma Munshi, Conference Coordinator and
Division Head - Social Sciences at AUK welcomes the attending audience
Division Head - Social Sciences at AUK welcomes the attending audience
A view of the audience
AUK President Dr. Marina Tolmacheva gives opening remarks
A video message from the President of Dartmouth College Dr. James Wright
Dr. Nizar Hamzeh the Dean of the College of Arts & Science at AUK
Keynote speaker, Dale F. Eickelman, Ralph and Richard Lazarus Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations, Dartmouth College
Practitioners from universities in the region shared their experiences
Practitioners from universities in the region shared their experiences
AUK students took part in giving presentations during the conference
AUK students took part in giving presentations during the conference
26, Apr 2009
Kuwait Enjoys a 'Taste of AUK'
The American University of Kuwait held its annual 'Taste of AUK' day, a festive event on its campus on Saturday. This open day features several vendors from around the country, family fun and games for both adults and children including balloon dart, water balloon games, obstacle courses, big mouth, kick and score, alien invasion, pin the cake, scrambled eggs and games galore. Face painting, henna drawings and tattoo airbrushing will also be available.
The annual open day event is designed to introduce the University to the public in an enjoyable and fun-filled environment and so along with all the festivities AUK will have information booths managed by representative from Admissions, Pre-College University English and the Center for Continuing Education for anyone interested in learning more about the University.
Participating vendors include: Kibbeh w'bas, Noodle Factory, Q Cafe, Sushi Club, Napket, Lunch Box, Au Bon Pain, Wasabi, Bassinet, Munch, Trader Vick's, Digits, Starbucks, La Maison, KAPICO, Al Shaya, The Diner (Sweet Dalia), Grow more (AUK Bookstore), Partyland, Buongiorno, Power Horse, Smint, Diety, Auntie Anne's Pretzel, The Cookie Bag.
Photos from the event
The annual open day event is designed to introduce the University to the public in an enjoyable and fun-filled environment and so along with all the festivities AUK will have information booths managed by representative from Admissions, Pre-College University English and the Center for Continuing Education for anyone interested in learning more about the University.
Participating vendors include: Kibbeh w'bas, Noodle Factory, Q Cafe, Sushi Club, Napket, Lunch Box, Au Bon Pain, Wasabi, Bassinet, Munch, Trader Vick's, Digits, Starbucks, La Maison, KAPICO, Al Shaya, The Diner (Sweet Dalia), Grow more (AUK Bookstore), Partyland, Buongiorno, Power Horse, Smint, Diety, Auntie Anne's Pretzel, The Cookie Bag.
Photos from the event
25, Apr 2009
MUNAUK's Trauma of Choice 2009 - Making the Right Choice
An AUK club/organization, the Model United Nations at the American University of Kuwait (MUNAUK), organized an event entitled "Trauma of Choice 2009" on the evening of Wednesday 8 April at the American University of Kuwait. The subject of the evening focused voting for candidates as ombudsmen and as representatives upholding similar perspectives and ideologies, rather than for reasons relating to tribalism, nepotism, sectarianism, or other forms of discrimination.
The event hosted the following Kuwaiti candidates and distinguished guests: Dr. Maasoma Al-Mubarak, Mussalam Al-Barak, Mohammed Abdulkader Al-Jasem Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi, Saleh Al-Mullah, , Dr. Rola Dashti, Marzook Al-Ghanim, Madhi Al-Khamees, Talal Al-Saeed, Dr. Mohammad Al-Moqatei, . It was moderated by Dr. Ali Al-Tarrah, a renowned Kuwaiti political analyst.
Abdulaziz Safi Al-Mutawa, President of MUNAUK, began by introducing the topic of discussion, and the Kuwaiti parliamentarians, and hoping for a fruitful debate among them to reap a benefit for all. Dr. Ali Al-Tarrah commenced by emphasizing the importance of engaging in political participation lest Kuwaitis wish for their nation to go down the same murky path that has led them nowhere. He also discussed the importance of recognizing tribes despite popular belief about how they have come to fragment Kuwaiti society.
Each of the guests were given approximately ten minutes to speak on the issue of choosing the most impartial candidate to represent the Kuwaiti population. It came as no surprise to the audience that the discussion soon turned into a simulation of what can be regularly viewed inside the halls of the Kuwaiti parliament. The discourse was centralized around failures of past Kuwaiti parliamentarians and the humiliations that came along with them. Immediately following this was valiant cries for the Kuwaiti public to make the right choice.
A message that they all wished to convey is discouraging political idleness and reminding the Kuwaiti population that change rests in their hands. Mr. Al-Mutawa commented, "It is our choice... a choice that is difficult for us all. So we are facing the "Trauma of Choice."
MUNAUK wishes to thank AUK for supporting and providing a forum for this event, the first of its kind for the 2009 elections. In particular, the MUNAUK organization would like to extend its gratitude to AUK's PR & Marketing Department.
Written by Farah Al-Shamali
The event hosted the following Kuwaiti candidates and distinguished guests: Dr. Maasoma Al-Mubarak, Mussalam Al-Barak, Mohammed Abdulkader Al-Jasem Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi, Saleh Al-Mullah, , Dr. Rola Dashti, Marzook Al-Ghanim, Madhi Al-Khamees, Talal Al-Saeed, Dr. Mohammad Al-Moqatei, . It was moderated by Dr. Ali Al-Tarrah, a renowned Kuwaiti political analyst.
Abdulaziz Safi Al-Mutawa, President of MUNAUK, began by introducing the topic of discussion, and the Kuwaiti parliamentarians, and hoping for a fruitful debate among them to reap a benefit for all. Dr. Ali Al-Tarrah commenced by emphasizing the importance of engaging in political participation lest Kuwaitis wish for their nation to go down the same murky path that has led them nowhere. He also discussed the importance of recognizing tribes despite popular belief about how they have come to fragment Kuwaiti society.
Each of the guests were given approximately ten minutes to speak on the issue of choosing the most impartial candidate to represent the Kuwaiti population. It came as no surprise to the audience that the discussion soon turned into a simulation of what can be regularly viewed inside the halls of the Kuwaiti parliament. The discourse was centralized around failures of past Kuwaiti parliamentarians and the humiliations that came along with them. Immediately following this was valiant cries for the Kuwaiti public to make the right choice.
A message that they all wished to convey is discouraging political idleness and reminding the Kuwaiti population that change rests in their hands. Mr. Al-Mutawa commented, "It is our choice... a choice that is difficult for us all. So we are facing the "Trauma of Choice."
MUNAUK wishes to thank AUK for supporting and providing a forum for this event, the first of its kind for the 2009 elections. In particular, the MUNAUK organization would like to extend its gratitude to AUK's PR & Marketing Department.
Written by Farah Al-Shamali
Abdulaziz Al Mutawa, President of MUNAUK with some of the speaker
Members of MUNAUK
Saleh Al Mulla
Mussallam Al Barrak
Mussalam Al Barrak and Dr. Aseel Al Awadhi
Mohammed Abdulqader Al Jassem
Moderator Dr. Ali Al Tarrah
Mathi Al Khamees
Marzouq Al Ghanim and Mohammed Abdulqader Al Jassem
Marzouq Al Ghanem
Dr. Rola Dashti
Dr. Mohammed Al Muqatei
Dr. Maasouma Al Mubarak
Dr. Ibraheem Mirza
Dr. Aseel Al Awadhi
Talal Al Saeed
22, Apr 2009
Dartmouth Professor Dale Eickelman named a 2009 Carnegie Scholar
Dale Eickelman, the Ralph and Richard Lazarus Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations at Dartmouth, has been named a Carnegie Scholar by the Carnegie Corporation of New York. Eickelman was selected for what the corporation calls his "compelling ideas and commitment to enriching the quality of the public dialogue on Islam." The project Eickelman will pursue with the support of the scholarship is entitled, "Mainstreaming Islam: Taking Charge of the Faith."
Eickelman was selected as one of 24 scholars who will receive two-year grants of up to $100,000 from the foundation. He is the second member of the Dartmouth faculty to receive this honor in as many years. In 2008 Susannah Heschel, the Eli Black Professor in Jewish Studies and professor of religion, was named a Carnegie Scholar.
"I am honored that the Carnegie Foundation has chosen to support my work," said Eickelman. "This fellowship will enable me to continue my existing research on the evolving conversations about Islamic practice and tradition, and to pursue exciting new opportunities in related fields. The goal is to enlarge our understanding of how Muslim thought is changing and being changed by some of the same forces that are affecting other traditions and belief systems in the 21st century."
Building upon his fieldwork and past research in Indonesia, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, Eickelman's Carnegie project will explore the impact educated Muslims are having on rethinking Islamic thought and practice. Eickelman's work will present a more complex analysis of those reformers who are rethinking religion outside of traditional boundaries, or are shaping new social movements. Eickelman will share his research through publication of a book and will participate in related activities, reaching a wide audience of key stakeholders interested in shaping Muslim world developments.
The 2009 Carnegie Scholar awardees are the fifth class to focus on Islam since the program began in 2000, bringing the number of Carnegie Scholars focused on this topic to 117. Commenting on the 2009 Carnegie Scholars and this aspect of the program's work, Carnegie Corporation President Vartan Gregorian said, "We are cultivating a diverse scholarly community spanning a range of disciplines with the expectation that their voices will help Americans develop a more complex understanding of Muslim societies here and throughout the world--revealing Islam's rich diversity. Only through vibrant dialogue, guided by bold and nuanced scholarship, can we move public thinking into new territory."
Eickelman's previous scholarship has focused on the role of intellectuals in Islamic society, education, media and communications. Over the course of his academic career, Eickelman has authored or edited over a dozen books and has published nearly one hundred and fifty journal articles or book chapters. He received his Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Chicago, an M.A. in Islamic Studies from McGill University and is a 1964 graduate of Dartmouth.
Courtesy of Dartmouth College, Office of Public Affairs
Dr. Eickelman also serves as the Relationship Coordinator of the AUK-Dartmouth College Project.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA), have worked closely together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding that facilitated a series of advisory, consultative, and cooperative projects. That initial agreement was renewed in June 2008 to extend through 2013. The two institutions share a commitment to excellence in higher learning, and the agreement between them reflects AUK's growing stature as a premier academic institution in the Gulf region and beyond. With its deep and historic commitment to the liberal arts, Dartmouth recognizes the importance of AUK's mission and works to support the university as it develops a superlative education, based on the principles of critical inquiry, mastery of subject material, depth of curriculum, and a vibrant out of the classroom experience.
Eickelman was selected as one of 24 scholars who will receive two-year grants of up to $100,000 from the foundation. He is the second member of the Dartmouth faculty to receive this honor in as many years. In 2008 Susannah Heschel, the Eli Black Professor in Jewish Studies and professor of religion, was named a Carnegie Scholar.
"I am honored that the Carnegie Foundation has chosen to support my work," said Eickelman. "This fellowship will enable me to continue my existing research on the evolving conversations about Islamic practice and tradition, and to pursue exciting new opportunities in related fields. The goal is to enlarge our understanding of how Muslim thought is changing and being changed by some of the same forces that are affecting other traditions and belief systems in the 21st century."
Building upon his fieldwork and past research in Indonesia, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, Eickelman's Carnegie project will explore the impact educated Muslims are having on rethinking Islamic thought and practice. Eickelman's work will present a more complex analysis of those reformers who are rethinking religion outside of traditional boundaries, or are shaping new social movements. Eickelman will share his research through publication of a book and will participate in related activities, reaching a wide audience of key stakeholders interested in shaping Muslim world developments.
The 2009 Carnegie Scholar awardees are the fifth class to focus on Islam since the program began in 2000, bringing the number of Carnegie Scholars focused on this topic to 117. Commenting on the 2009 Carnegie Scholars and this aspect of the program's work, Carnegie Corporation President Vartan Gregorian said, "We are cultivating a diverse scholarly community spanning a range of disciplines with the expectation that their voices will help Americans develop a more complex understanding of Muslim societies here and throughout the world--revealing Islam's rich diversity. Only through vibrant dialogue, guided by bold and nuanced scholarship, can we move public thinking into new territory."
Eickelman's previous scholarship has focused on the role of intellectuals in Islamic society, education, media and communications. Over the course of his academic career, Eickelman has authored or edited over a dozen books and has published nearly one hundred and fifty journal articles or book chapters. He received his Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Chicago, an M.A. in Islamic Studies from McGill University and is a 1964 graduate of Dartmouth.
Courtesy of Dartmouth College, Office of Public Affairs
Dr. Eickelman also serves as the Relationship Coordinator of the AUK-Dartmouth College Project.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA), have worked closely together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding that facilitated a series of advisory, consultative, and cooperative projects. That initial agreement was renewed in June 2008 to extend through 2013. The two institutions share a commitment to excellence in higher learning, and the agreement between them reflects AUK's growing stature as a premier academic institution in the Gulf region and beyond. With its deep and historic commitment to the liberal arts, Dartmouth recognizes the importance of AUK's mission and works to support the university as it develops a superlative education, based on the principles of critical inquiry, mastery of subject material, depth of curriculum, and a vibrant out of the classroom experience.
Dale Eickelman, the Ralph and Richard Lazarus
Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations
at Dartmouth, (photo by Joseph Mehling '69)
Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations
at Dartmouth, (photo by Joseph Mehling '69)
21, Apr 2009
AUK's Fourth Annual Liberal Arts Conference - Higher Education in the GCC: Emerging Trends and Models
The American University of Kuwait is holding its Fourth Annual Liberal Arts Conference on 26 and 27 April, 2009. The topic of the conference is 'Higher Education in the GCC: Emerging Trends and Models'.
The development of private higher education is a paradigm shift endorsed by the six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in recent years. This has occurred, in part, to meet the demand for higher education that the public system could not meet. The dynamics of private higher education in the GCC countries is that institutions multiply to meet social needs and to satisfy social expectations.
Conferences such as this may be looked at as a process of 'articulation happening' and 'experience sharing'. Can they be made into intentional articulations to arrive at a synergistic place instead of "pundits" - often from the West - just speaking? Do all these different experiences make for a real emerging articulation of a new paradigm of education rather than just models that may end up competing, even if that was not the original intention?
The conference is spread over two days and divided into three panels. The first panel on 'Case Studies of Accreditation and Curriculum' will have practitioners from universities in the region who will share their experiences. The second panel on 'Technology, Curricula and Research' will highlight how learning outcomes are delivered in class room settings. The third panel on 'Emerging Trends' will discuss the directions that private higher education in the GCC is now being configured around.
The conference will be attended by Shaikha Dana Nasser Al-Sabah, Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees of AUK along with several other Members of the AUK Board.
Introductory remarks will be made by AUK and Dartmouth College Presidents, Dr. Marina Tolmacheva and Prof. James Wright respectively. The keynote speaker at the conference is Prof. Dale Eickelman, Ralph and Richard Lazarus Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations, Dartmouth College. The conference coordinator is Dr. Shoma Munshi, Division Head of Social Sciences.
In addition to AUK faculty participation, the conference also has participation from other institutions including Kuwait University; Gulf University of Science and Technology; Arab Open University; Zayed University, Qatar University; American University of Cairo; Carnegie Mellon, Qatar Foundation; and California State University.
The development of private higher education is a paradigm shift endorsed by the six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in recent years. This has occurred, in part, to meet the demand for higher education that the public system could not meet. The dynamics of private higher education in the GCC countries is that institutions multiply to meet social needs and to satisfy social expectations.
Conferences such as this may be looked at as a process of 'articulation happening' and 'experience sharing'. Can they be made into intentional articulations to arrive at a synergistic place instead of "pundits" - often from the West - just speaking? Do all these different experiences make for a real emerging articulation of a new paradigm of education rather than just models that may end up competing, even if that was not the original intention?
The conference is spread over two days and divided into three panels. The first panel on 'Case Studies of Accreditation and Curriculum' will have practitioners from universities in the region who will share their experiences. The second panel on 'Technology, Curricula and Research' will highlight how learning outcomes are delivered in class room settings. The third panel on 'Emerging Trends' will discuss the directions that private higher education in the GCC is now being configured around.
The conference will be attended by Shaikha Dana Nasser Al-Sabah, Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees of AUK along with several other Members of the AUK Board.
Introductory remarks will be made by AUK and Dartmouth College Presidents, Dr. Marina Tolmacheva and Prof. James Wright respectively. The keynote speaker at the conference is Prof. Dale Eickelman, Ralph and Richard Lazarus Professor of Anthropology and Human Relations, Dartmouth College. The conference coordinator is Dr. Shoma Munshi, Division Head of Social Sciences.
In addition to AUK faculty participation, the conference also has participation from other institutions including Kuwait University; Gulf University of Science and Technology; Arab Open University; Zayed University, Qatar University; American University of Cairo; Carnegie Mellon, Qatar Foundation; and California State University.
21, Apr 2009
AUK Students Win Mobile Development category at Microsoft Gulf Imagine Cup
The AUK CSIS team.
American University of Kuwait (AUK) students won the Mobile Development category of Microsoft Gulf 2009 Imagine Cup held in Dubai. The Imagine Cup is endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) which is the UN agency responsible for the promotion of international cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture and communication. Each year the Imagine Cup chooses its theme from the UN Millennium goals.
The competition challenged the regions' most talented students to 'Imagine a world where technology helps solve the toughest problems facing us today.' The United Nations has identified some of the hardest challenges in the world today in its Millennium Goals. This year the Imagine Cup Gulf region used these ambitious challenges as a guiding light to inspire change all over the Gulf region.
The AUK CSIS team project was titled ElectReduce which is a real time energy consumption monitor that helps reduce electricity consumption using mobile phones. The AUK team spent numerous weeks researching, designing and implementing a working prototype solution to their chosen problem and building a presentation that put them in first place and won the admiration of the judges, the audience as well as the other teams. The team was sponsored by Burgan Bank and Microsoft.
The AUK CSIS team was composed of Dr. Amir Zeid, Program Lead of Computer Science who served as mentor and coach, and the following students:
Abdullah Al-Shaikh, Computer Science and Information Systems (double major)
Salman Al-Saffar, Information Systems major
Ahmad Ashour, Computer Science major
Abdelwahab Al-Atiqi, Information Systems major
Ali Dashti, Information Systems major
Released by the PR & Marketing Department
Photography by the AUK Public Relations & Marketing Department (C)2009
15, Apr 2009
AUK Design Students Share Experience on Regional Conference
Graphic Design students gave a presentation to the AUK community on April 7, sharing their experiences from the Mousharaka|Icograda Design Week in Doha, Qatar held this past February.
With the theme Mousharaka, a term which in Arabic means "collaboration", the event aimed to bring together practitioners, scholars, and students across design disciplines, cultures and regions to build bridges and raise awareness of the importance and promise of collaboration, and create bonds necessary to achieve the full potential of design in the Gulf region.
The week-long event was composed of two parts, an education symposium and a professional conference, both of which provided ample opportunity for attendees to engage in discussions and activities that related to collaboration in the academic discipline of design. The Professional Conference featured four keynote speakers and eight prominent presenters who shared their perspectives on design and design collaborations. Additionally, the event launched Design Debate Doha, in which the design community addressed global design issues.
For Ranya Al-Mastaki, one of the five AUK students who attended the conference, the best part was having the opportunity to network with big names in design, like David Gibson, published pioneer in the field of public information design and Co-founder and Managing Principal of Two Twelve Associates, Inc in New York City.
Al-Mastaki left the conference not only with a deeper understanding of the importance of collaboration in design but also aware of the years of experience necessary to maintain a personal touch in a collaborative design, which often proves to be a challenge for beginning design students.
For more information on Graphic Design at AUK, please visit: http://www.auk.edu.kw/academics/deg_programs/graphic_design.jsp
For more information on the conference, including a schedule of the events, visit the website at: www.mousharaka.com
With the theme Mousharaka, a term which in Arabic means "collaboration", the event aimed to bring together practitioners, scholars, and students across design disciplines, cultures and regions to build bridges and raise awareness of the importance and promise of collaboration, and create bonds necessary to achieve the full potential of design in the Gulf region.
The week-long event was composed of two parts, an education symposium and a professional conference, both of which provided ample opportunity for attendees to engage in discussions and activities that related to collaboration in the academic discipline of design. The Professional Conference featured four keynote speakers and eight prominent presenters who shared their perspectives on design and design collaborations. Additionally, the event launched Design Debate Doha, in which the design community addressed global design issues.
For Ranya Al-Mastaki, one of the five AUK students who attended the conference, the best part was having the opportunity to network with big names in design, like David Gibson, published pioneer in the field of public information design and Co-founder and Managing Principal of Two Twelve Associates, Inc in New York City.
Al-Mastaki left the conference not only with a deeper understanding of the importance of collaboration in design but also aware of the years of experience necessary to maintain a personal touch in a collaborative design, which often proves to be a challenge for beginning design students.
For more information on Graphic Design at AUK, please visit: http://www.auk.edu.kw/academics/deg_programs/graphic_design.jsp
For more information on the conference, including a schedule of the events, visit the website at: www.mousharaka.com
Graphic Design students gave a presentation to the AUK community
15, Apr 2009
AUK Finance Students Visit Europe
Twenty senior finance students from the American University of Kuwait spent 10 days in France and Germany to examine modern manufacturing processes and the impact of the financial crisis on manufacturing in Europe.
The students' study abroad program was sponsored by Burgan Bank and a private sponsor eager to help senior students have a chance to see theories they learn at AUK in practice employed by the most modern manufacturers in Europe.
The students began their tour in Frankfurt visiting Deutsche Bank where they found operations on the trading floor most interesting. The students also visited the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.
A visit to the SMART car plant at Smartville provided an opportunity to see the complete assembly line at Europe's most modern car assembly plant. visit to John Deere provided an opportunity to see the different elements which are needed in the production of significantly larger machines particularly agricultural machines like the combine harvester.
The impressive precision links supported by advanced computer programs and high-tech manufacturing equipment provide practical experience in the extremely complex world of the modern factory.
The students visited DOW Chemical plant where they were taken through the polystyrene extrusion process and saw the production of various sizes of Styrofoam. Visits to Daimler Benz and General Motors provided excellent examples of the shared relationships between these companies when manufacturing and supplying parts for the powertrains of Mercedes, General Motors, and BMW automobiles.
The students also had opportunities to learn about the interrelationship between business and culture in Europe where finance and manufacturing still "fit in" with everyday life and the "greening" of industry. Significant efforts to become energy efficient were in evidence at every plant visited.
Study Abroad is very much in keeping with the Mission of the American University of Kuwait to provide students "with knowledge, self-awareness, and personal growth that can enhance critical thinking." These students will bring back their experiences and share them in class with other students and promote a better understanding of the complex world of the global economy.
The students' study abroad program was sponsored by Burgan Bank and a private sponsor eager to help senior students have a chance to see theories they learn at AUK in practice employed by the most modern manufacturers in Europe.
The students began their tour in Frankfurt visiting Deutsche Bank where they found operations on the trading floor most interesting. The students also visited the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.
A visit to the SMART car plant at Smartville provided an opportunity to see the complete assembly line at Europe's most modern car assembly plant. visit to John Deere provided an opportunity to see the different elements which are needed in the production of significantly larger machines particularly agricultural machines like the combine harvester.
The impressive precision links supported by advanced computer programs and high-tech manufacturing equipment provide practical experience in the extremely complex world of the modern factory.
The students visited DOW Chemical plant where they were taken through the polystyrene extrusion process and saw the production of various sizes of Styrofoam. Visits to Daimler Benz and General Motors provided excellent examples of the shared relationships between these companies when manufacturing and supplying parts for the powertrains of Mercedes, General Motors, and BMW automobiles.
The students also had opportunities to learn about the interrelationship between business and culture in Europe where finance and manufacturing still "fit in" with everyday life and the "greening" of industry. Significant efforts to become energy efficient were in evidence at every plant visited.
Study Abroad is very much in keeping with the Mission of the American University of Kuwait to provide students "with knowledge, self-awareness, and personal growth that can enhance critical thinking." These students will bring back their experiences and share them in class with other students and promote a better understanding of the complex world of the global economy.
AUK Finance students Visit the Mercedes Museum
Entering Heidelberg University for a lecture on Global Prospects until 2020
Listening to a lecture on production at John Deere
At Heidelberg Castle
In the John Deere Factory Museum
