News
06, Mar 2024
AUK Commemorates Kuwait’s National and Liberation Days with Activities
AUK hosted a week-long series of events to honor Kuwait's National and Liberation Days, reinforcing Kuwait’s national identity and promoting an appreciation of the country’s cultural and historical heritage.
The festivities commenced with the grand opening of "The Pearl Museum," a collaborative effort between AUK and The Kuwaiti Old Crafts Society. This captivating exhibition transported attendees on a journey through Kuwait's rich history, showcasing an impressive array of antiques and artifacts. Concurrently, the International Relations Club collaborated with renowned singer Abdulaziz Al Dhuwaihi to present an enthralling musical event.
Throughout the week, the campus community enjoyed various activities, including performances by the Al-Qurain band, displays of vintage cars, and a traditional café experience. Sports enthusiasts also participated in a football tournament organized by the Football Club, with different groups named after iconic Kuwaiti football teams. Students had the opportunity to partake in old traditional games, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Kuwait's rich cultural heritage.
Reflecting on the success of the events, Omar Mehdi, director of Student Life, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The National and Liberation Day events were a resounding success and truly showcased the vibrant spirit of Kuwait. It was heartwarming to witness our community come together to celebrate the nation's heritage."
AUK ensures students deepen their understanding of Kuwait’s culture and traditions whilst also celebrating the achievements of Kuwait and its people. With the campus-wide celebrations and decorations in place, AUK continues to foster a sense of national pride and identity among students, faculty and staff.
The festivities commenced with the grand opening of "The Pearl Museum," a collaborative effort between AUK and The Kuwaiti Old Crafts Society. This captivating exhibition transported attendees on a journey through Kuwait's rich history, showcasing an impressive array of antiques and artifacts. Concurrently, the International Relations Club collaborated with renowned singer Abdulaziz Al Dhuwaihi to present an enthralling musical event.
Throughout the week, the campus community enjoyed various activities, including performances by the Al-Qurain band, displays of vintage cars, and a traditional café experience. Sports enthusiasts also participated in a football tournament organized by the Football Club, with different groups named after iconic Kuwaiti football teams. Students had the opportunity to partake in old traditional games, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Kuwait's rich cultural heritage.
Reflecting on the success of the events, Omar Mehdi, director of Student Life, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The National and Liberation Day events were a resounding success and truly showcased the vibrant spirit of Kuwait. It was heartwarming to witness our community come together to celebrate the nation's heritage."
AUK ensures students deepen their understanding of Kuwait’s culture and traditions whilst also celebrating the achievements of Kuwait and its people. With the campus-wide celebrations and decorations in place, AUK continues to foster a sense of national pride and identity among students, faculty and staff.
General photos of the activities
22, Feb 2024
AUK Welcomes Exchange Students from Sciences Po
AUK hosts an enriching academic exchange during the Spring 2024 semester, welcoming Imen Lassel and Lucas Desgardin, two students from Sciences Po, Paris. The Office of International Student Programs played a pivotal role in facilitating this cross-cultural collaboration, forging partnerships with universities worldwide to offer students exceptional global experiences.
Imen is a third-year student majoring in politics and government. She previously travelled to Cairo where she learned literary Arabic, and by choosing AUK for her exchange semester, she hopes to explore other horizons of the Arab world.
Lucas, a third-year student majoring in political humanities, aims to gain a deeper understanding of Kuwait's cultural traditions, rich history, and societal dynamics through this exchange. He is eager to engage in cross-cultural interactions, connect with local students, and immerse himself in the Kuwaiti way of life.
Student exchanges, study abroad programs, and international internships foster cultural awareness, enhance academic and professional mobility, and nurture essential qualities needed in today’s global landscape.
Imen is a third-year student majoring in politics and government. She previously travelled to Cairo where she learned literary Arabic, and by choosing AUK for her exchange semester, she hopes to explore other horizons of the Arab world.
Lucas, a third-year student majoring in political humanities, aims to gain a deeper understanding of Kuwait's cultural traditions, rich history, and societal dynamics through this exchange. He is eager to engage in cross-cultural interactions, connect with local students, and immerse himself in the Kuwaiti way of life.
Student exchanges, study abroad programs, and international internships foster cultural awareness, enhance academic and professional mobility, and nurture essential qualities needed in today’s global landscape.
Lucas Desgardin
Imen Lassel
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22, Feb 2024
Exploring Kuwait’s Press History: AUK Library Hosts Lecture and Exhibition
AUK library hosted a captivating lecture and exhibition, shedding light on the rich history and evolution of press in Kuwait. Titled “Kuwaiti Press: From Inception to Liberation,” the talk featured Mr. Fahad Ghazi Al-Abduljaleel, Chairman of the Kuwait Heritage Society and author of the Encyclopedia of Kuwaiti Press, alongside Mr. Saleh Al Mesbah and Ms. Nada Al-Rifae.
Mr. Al-Abduljaleel highlighted pioneers who contributed to the development of press in Kuwait such as Abdulaziz Al-Rasheed who established the first Kuwaiti magazine, Majalat Al-Kuwait in 1928. The Kuwaiti students union in Cairo also established Al-Bitha magazine (the mission), which played a prominent role in covering news from Kuwait and allowing students to express their viewpoints on political and social affairs. Additionally, Kuwait published Al-Arabi magazine in 1958 which became a leading cultural magazine in the Arab world and a hub for prominent Arab writes, poets, and intellectuals.
Kuwaiti press did not stop during the invasion but re-emerged as a voice of resistance. Most of the newspapers continued to publish domestic and international editions from various locations abroad such as London, Saudi Arabia, and Cairo. The first edition of "Sawt Al Kuwait" newspaper was launched during the occupation to support the legitimacy of the government.
The event concluded with a Q&A session and an exhibition showcasing the first issues of various publications dating back to 1928.
Mr. Al-Abduljaleel highlighted pioneers who contributed to the development of press in Kuwait such as Abdulaziz Al-Rasheed who established the first Kuwaiti magazine, Majalat Al-Kuwait in 1928. The Kuwaiti students union in Cairo also established Al-Bitha magazine (the mission), which played a prominent role in covering news from Kuwait and allowing students to express their viewpoints on political and social affairs. Additionally, Kuwait published Al-Arabi magazine in 1958 which became a leading cultural magazine in the Arab world and a hub for prominent Arab writes, poets, and intellectuals.
Kuwaiti press did not stop during the invasion but re-emerged as a voice of resistance. Most of the newspapers continued to publish domestic and international editions from various locations abroad such as London, Saudi Arabia, and Cairo. The first edition of "Sawt Al Kuwait" newspaper was launched during the occupation to support the legitimacy of the government.
The event concluded with a Q&A session and an exhibition showcasing the first issues of various publications dating back to 1928.
Mr. Fahad Ghazi Al-Abduljaleel
Mr. Fahad Ghazi Al-Abduljaleel
Group photo of Mr. Fahad Ghazi Al-Abduljaleel and AUK members
General photo from the exhibition
20, Feb 2024
AUK Exhibition: First of its Kind Arab Design Course
Graphic design students at AUK showcased their work in an exhibition organized by assistant professor of graphic design, Dr. Fahad Dhawi, for his Special Topics course, “History of Arab Design: Student Exhibition Two.” This is the first course in Kuwait that explores the works of over 200 Arab designers, including detailed timelines on the establishment and evolution of Arab art and design colleges, editorial design, poster design, cinema, typewriter, language learning, and printing press.
The students’ work reflected the style of existing Arabic graphic designers or artists whose work was featured in the course’s textbook. The exhibition included a selection of art & design student projects that feature Arabic calligraphy, typography and lettering, sculpture, mix media, painting, illustration, manuscript, mashrabiya/rug design, poster design, product design, and furniture design.
Commenting on the significance of this exhibition and its distinctiveness, Dr. Dhawi stated, “This exhibition has given our students the opportunity to celebrate creativity, strength of communication design, power of voice and artistic expression as well as the power of art, culture and most importantly the power of collaboration. It is important to know that our students are now learning the History of Arab design for the first time as well as how earlier Arab designers and artists struggled; either from the lack of art materials, or political resistances that were met during the execution of their projects back in time.”
AUK prioritizes exposing its students to various Arab cultures and heritages. Through these courses, students gain invaluable insights and foster a deeper understanding of cultural diversity.
The students’ work reflected the style of existing Arabic graphic designers or artists whose work was featured in the course’s textbook. The exhibition included a selection of art & design student projects that feature Arabic calligraphy, typography and lettering, sculpture, mix media, painting, illustration, manuscript, mashrabiya/rug design, poster design, product design, and furniture design.
Commenting on the significance of this exhibition and its distinctiveness, Dr. Dhawi stated, “This exhibition has given our students the opportunity to celebrate creativity, strength of communication design, power of voice and artistic expression as well as the power of art, culture and most importantly the power of collaboration. It is important to know that our students are now learning the History of Arab design for the first time as well as how earlier Arab designers and artists struggled; either from the lack of art materials, or political resistances that were met during the execution of their projects back in time.”
AUK prioritizes exposing its students to various Arab cultures and heritages. Through these courses, students gain invaluable insights and foster a deeper understanding of cultural diversity.
Students projects
Click on the Image to view the Photo Gallery
18, Feb 2024
AUK Begins Spring Semester with Orientation and Welcome Week Activities
AUK began the spring semester by welcoming new students with a comprehensive orientation to introduce them to facilities and services available on campus and activities that acclimate them to university life.
University president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, greeted new students, providing insight into what distinguishes AUK as an institution, “So, what makes AUK the place to be? It's all about our belief that learning can totally change your personal trajectory. We are dedicated to providing you with a well-nurtured education that keeps up with the fast changes happening out there. We're all about thinking green and making choices good for the future, for yourself, your families, your country, and the world. We’re setting you up to be the leaders, thinkers, and game changers, because the world needs it.”
The Office of Student Life at AUK introduced students to the campus, various academic programs, and different support services designed to enrich their university experience. They also organized a range of activities, including a movie night and a sports game between students and staff/faculty. Students also familiarized themselves with all the clubs and organizations that they could join on campus through the involvement fair.
Commenting on the orientation and activities taking place on campus, the vice president for student affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan, stated, “As we begin a new semester, I extend a warm welcome to all students. Our campus is a crucible of transformation where each experience shapes us. Embrace challenges, cherish discovery, and dare to dream beyond convention. Together, let’s weave a tapestry of knowledge, compassion, and resilience. Welcome, and may this semester be a testament to your boundless potential.”
Through initiating these orientations and activities, AUK continues to foster a community of students who are tight-knit and united in their scholastic and professional goals.
University president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, greeted new students, providing insight into what distinguishes AUK as an institution, “So, what makes AUK the place to be? It's all about our belief that learning can totally change your personal trajectory. We are dedicated to providing you with a well-nurtured education that keeps up with the fast changes happening out there. We're all about thinking green and making choices good for the future, for yourself, your families, your country, and the world. We’re setting you up to be the leaders, thinkers, and game changers, because the world needs it.”
The Office of Student Life at AUK introduced students to the campus, various academic programs, and different support services designed to enrich their university experience. They also organized a range of activities, including a movie night and a sports game between students and staff/faculty. Students also familiarized themselves with all the clubs and organizations that they could join on campus through the involvement fair.
Commenting on the orientation and activities taking place on campus, the vice president for student affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan, stated, “As we begin a new semester, I extend a warm welcome to all students. Our campus is a crucible of transformation where each experience shapes us. Embrace challenges, cherish discovery, and dare to dream beyond convention. Together, let’s weave a tapestry of knowledge, compassion, and resilience. Welcome, and may this semester be a testament to your boundless potential.”
Through initiating these orientations and activities, AUK continues to foster a community of students who are tight-knit and united in their scholastic and professional goals.
AUK president Dr. Rawda Awwad
General photos from the orientation
General photos from the orientation
12, Feb 2024
Art & Design Students and Faculty Excel in Creative Printmaking Conference
AUK students and faculty from the Art & Graphic Design Department participated in the Creative Printing Conference 2024, which took place in Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre.
Fahad Dhawi, assistant professor of graphic design, designed the logo, kinetic typography, and set the color scheme for the conference. He also designed a reveal poster for next year’s conference theme and identity, enhancing the color palette and incorporating geometric shapes. Clark Stoeckley, associate professor of art & graphic design, designed and submitted a winning poster according to the conference’s theme, “Harmony Beyond Borders: Experienced Layers.”
The conference included a section under the category “External Artworks Beyond Borders” where the chair of the Graphic Design Department, William Andersen and most of Professor Dhawi’s Arab Design History students (ARTH303) participated.
AUK's exceptional students and faculty actively engage in conferences, effectively highlighting the University's commitment to delivering high-quality education and maintaining rigorous standards.
Fahad Dhawi, assistant professor of graphic design, designed the logo, kinetic typography, and set the color scheme for the conference. He also designed a reveal poster for next year’s conference theme and identity, enhancing the color palette and incorporating geometric shapes. Clark Stoeckley, associate professor of art & graphic design, designed and submitted a winning poster according to the conference’s theme, “Harmony Beyond Borders: Experienced Layers.”
The conference included a section under the category “External Artworks Beyond Borders” where the chair of the Graphic Design Department, William Andersen and most of Professor Dhawi’s Arab Design History students (ARTH303) participated.
AUK's exceptional students and faculty actively engage in conferences, effectively highlighting the University's commitment to delivering high-quality education and maintaining rigorous standards.
Dr. Fahad Dhawi with conference members
General photos from the exhibition
General photos from the exhibition
30, Jan 2024
Italian Ambassador Visits AUK
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, welcomed the Italian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Lorenzo Morini, to the University’s campus. They discussed potential outreach initiatives and addressed the varied educational requirements of students on a local and international level.
AUK has a longstanding commitment to collaborating with various embassies, maintaining a dedicated effort to uphold regular meetings that strengthen relationships and foster mutual support for scholastic opportunities.
AUK has a longstanding commitment to collaborating with various embassies, maintaining a dedicated effort to uphold regular meetings that strengthen relationships and foster mutual support for scholastic opportunities.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad and the Italian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Lorenzo Morini
29, Jan 2024
AUK Art & Graphic Design Department Launches 17th Biannual Capstone Exhibition
The Art & Graphic Design Department at AUK launched its Fall 2023 Capstone Design Exhibition which took place at the AUK Exhibition Center. The exhibition offered senior students an opportunity to display their creative work, which covered a range of themes, including social and cultural awareness, corporate identity, and entrepreneurship.
The exhibition ran for one week and participating students were evaluated by industry experts based on their creativity and presentation, their ability to conduct and use graphic design research strategy effectively, and their ability to plan and implement a compelling graphic design display.
The Chair of the Art & Graphic Design Department, Professor William Andersen, talked about the exhibition and what it represents, “We are proud to showcase the final projects of our graduating graphic design majors. Their capstone projects bring together all the knowledge and skills they have acquired at AUK and highlights their talent and creativity.”
Held on a biannual basis, the Capstone Design Exhibition brings together visitors from the field of graphic design, including experts from graphic design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Associate professor of graphic design and professor of the capstone course, Maryam Hosseinnia, stated, "The diversity of projects influenced from personal stories and life circumstances is what makes this exhibition unique and special. Each student’s journey, their values, passion, and motivation are expressed in their work, a unique combination of what it takes to be a graphic designer.”
AUK’s Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition presents an opportunity for senior students to fully incorporate their design strengths and learning into a focused and extended process of research and visual expression.
The exhibition ran for one week and participating students were evaluated by industry experts based on their creativity and presentation, their ability to conduct and use graphic design research strategy effectively, and their ability to plan and implement a compelling graphic design display.
The Chair of the Art & Graphic Design Department, Professor William Andersen, talked about the exhibition and what it represents, “We are proud to showcase the final projects of our graduating graphic design majors. Their capstone projects bring together all the knowledge and skills they have acquired at AUK and highlights their talent and creativity.”
Held on a biannual basis, the Capstone Design Exhibition brings together visitors from the field of graphic design, including experts from graphic design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Associate professor of graphic design and professor of the capstone course, Maryam Hosseinnia, stated, "The diversity of projects influenced from personal stories and life circumstances is what makes this exhibition unique and special. Each student’s journey, their values, passion, and motivation are expressed in their work, a unique combination of what it takes to be a graphic designer.”
AUK’s Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition presents an opportunity for senior students to fully incorporate their design strengths and learning into a focused and extended process of research and visual expression.
Click on the Image to view the Photo Gallery
29, Jan 2024
AUK Basketball Teams Secure First Place in UAAK Tournament
AUK men’s and women’s basketball teams claimed the championship in the 2023-2024 UAAK Tournament. The teams' remarkable achievement was marked by an impressive streak of consecutive victories, underscoring their dominance and proficiency on the basketball court throughout the tournament.
Eight universities participated in the league. The men's basketball team maintained an impeccable record, remaining undefeated throughout the league. Meanwhile, the women's basketball team secured victories in all but one game during this competitive season.
Commenting on this impressive achievement, Mohammed Al-Saleh, senior sports coordinator, stated, “AUK athletics have become an attraction for prospective students, and I am very happy about this. When team players win, they feel that they are recognized as athletes, however at AUK just being part of an AUK sports team makes our players immediately feel like athletes. I am very proud of both the men’s and women's basketball teams and congratulate them for all their efforts and for winning in the UAAK Basketball League.”
Omar Mehdi, director of the Office of Student Life, also shared the same sentiment, “The Office of Student Life is very proud of our champions who dominated both the men's and women's UAAK basketball league. Our student-athletes' character and passion led them to this well-deserved victory.”
This victory not only underscores AUK's athletic excellence but also reflects their unwavering dedication. The values of discipline, hard work, and teamwork exemplified by the athletes are ingrained in the ethos of the University, fostering a culture of excellence that extends beyond the sports field.
Eight universities participated in the league. The men's basketball team maintained an impeccable record, remaining undefeated throughout the league. Meanwhile, the women's basketball team secured victories in all but one game during this competitive season.
Commenting on this impressive achievement, Mohammed Al-Saleh, senior sports coordinator, stated, “AUK athletics have become an attraction for prospective students, and I am very happy about this. When team players win, they feel that they are recognized as athletes, however at AUK just being part of an AUK sports team makes our players immediately feel like athletes. I am very proud of both the men’s and women's basketball teams and congratulate them for all their efforts and for winning in the UAAK Basketball League.”
Omar Mehdi, director of the Office of Student Life, also shared the same sentiment, “The Office of Student Life is very proud of our champions who dominated both the men's and women's UAAK basketball league. Our student-athletes' character and passion led them to this well-deserved victory.”
This victory not only underscores AUK's athletic excellence but also reflects their unwavering dedication. The values of discipline, hard work, and teamwork exemplified by the athletes are ingrained in the ethos of the University, fostering a culture of excellence that extends beyond the sports field.
AUK’s winning Men’s Basketball Team
AUK’s winning Men’s Basketball Team
AUK’s winning Women’s Basketball team
General photos from the UAAK tournament
General photos from the UAAK tournament
28, Jan 2024
AUK CCE and GATES Forge Partnership for Development in Kuwait
The Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at AUK and GATES Group collaborated on a joint initiative, aimed at providing comprehensive consulting, training, executive coaching, and fostering business transformation in Kuwait.
The newly unveiled initiative, SuCCEed, is positioned to cater to the Kuwaiti market, offering specialized consulting services in human resources, training management, strategy, finance, accounting, and healthcare accreditation readiness. SuCCEed will actively facilitate leaders and professionals in accessing continuous development solutions through collaborations with both local and international partners.
Functioning as an integral part of CCE, SuCCEed assumes a pivotal role in bolstering leaders' development. It provides executive coaching and consulting services tailored to meet diverse market demands in Kuwait, including the accreditation mandate by GIG, Kuwaitization of the workforce, and the objectives outlined in Kuwait Vision 2035.
This strategic partnership combines AUK's educational excellence and GATES Group's healthcare industry expertise to enhance healthcare management practices, cultivate leaders, and drive impactful business transformation.
The newly unveiled initiative, SuCCEed, is positioned to cater to the Kuwaiti market, offering specialized consulting services in human resources, training management, strategy, finance, accounting, and healthcare accreditation readiness. SuCCEed will actively facilitate leaders and professionals in accessing continuous development solutions through collaborations with both local and international partners.
Functioning as an integral part of CCE, SuCCEed assumes a pivotal role in bolstering leaders' development. It provides executive coaching and consulting services tailored to meet diverse market demands in Kuwait, including the accreditation mandate by GIG, Kuwaitization of the workforce, and the objectives outlined in Kuwait Vision 2035.
This strategic partnership combines AUK's educational excellence and GATES Group's healthcare industry expertise to enhance healthcare management practices, cultivate leaders, and drive impactful business transformation.
CCE, AUK, and GATES logos
