News
08, May 2024
From Dartmouth to Kuwait: Khadijah's Internship at AUK
In continuation of its collaborative efforts with Dartmouth College to foster professional student internship exchanges, AUK welcomed Khadijah Bell for the spring 2024 semester.
Explaining her choice to intern at AUK and travel to Kuwait, Khadijah expresses her desire to gain experience in academia and immerse herself in Arab culture. When asked about her goals for the experience, she emphasizes her aspiration to return home with a deeper understanding than when she arrived.
Khadijah's interests extend beyond her academic focus, as she eagerly anticipates learning about Kuwaiti history from locals and exploring sites like the Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre. She also looks forward to venturing to neighboring countries like Qatar and Oman during her stay.
Through student exchanges, study abroad programs, and international internships, institutions like AUK and Dartmouth College aim to promote cultural understanding, facilitate academic and professional growth, and cultivate the skills necessary for success in today's globalized world.
Explaining her choice to intern at AUK and travel to Kuwait, Khadijah expresses her desire to gain experience in academia and immerse herself in Arab culture. When asked about her goals for the experience, she emphasizes her aspiration to return home with a deeper understanding than when she arrived.
Khadijah's interests extend beyond her academic focus, as she eagerly anticipates learning about Kuwaiti history from locals and exploring sites like the Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre. She also looks forward to venturing to neighboring countries like Qatar and Oman during her stay.
Through student exchanges, study abroad programs, and international internships, institutions like AUK and Dartmouth College aim to promote cultural understanding, facilitate academic and professional growth, and cultivate the skills necessary for success in today's globalized world.
Khadijah Bell
07, May 2024
Unveiling Kuwait's Digital Divide: Perspectives from Dr. Fahed Al-Sumait
AUK Faculty Speaker Series (FSS) recently featured Dr. Fahed Al-Sumait, associate professor of communication, as the keynote speaker. Dr. Al-Sumait's expertise in strategic communication, intercultural studies, and digital inequalities, particularly in Kuwait and the Arabian Peninsula, set the stage for an enlightening discussion.
Dr. Al-Sumait's presentation, titled "Kuwait’s Digital Inequalities: The Persistent Challenge to Transitioning from Tankers to Tablets," delved into the critical issues shaping Kuwait's digital transformation journey.
Throughout the presentation, Dr. Al-Sumait provided valuable insights into the role of digital media technologies in Kuwait's efforts to transition away from its reliance on hydrocarbon exports towards a knowledge-based economy. He highlighted persistent digital disparities that continue to affect marginalized communities within the nation.
Dr. Al-Sumait didn't merely diagnose the problem; he also proposed pragmatic solutions to address Kuwait's digital inequalities. Recommendations included improving public access opportunities, enhancing digital skills through education and training programs, fostering a regulatory environment supportive of equitable digital participation, and engaging women in ICT planning and design processes.
The session concluded with a lively Q&A session, where attendees posed insightful questions. Dr. Al-Sumait addressed each query with detailed explanations, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange.
As ambassadors of knowledge and catalysts for change, AUK professors like Dr. Al-Sumait exemplify the University's dedication to academic excellence and social responsibility, making significant contributions to both scholarship and community development.
Dr. Al-Sumait's presentation, titled "Kuwait’s Digital Inequalities: The Persistent Challenge to Transitioning from Tankers to Tablets," delved into the critical issues shaping Kuwait's digital transformation journey.
Throughout the presentation, Dr. Al-Sumait provided valuable insights into the role of digital media technologies in Kuwait's efforts to transition away from its reliance on hydrocarbon exports towards a knowledge-based economy. He highlighted persistent digital disparities that continue to affect marginalized communities within the nation.
Dr. Al-Sumait didn't merely diagnose the problem; he also proposed pragmatic solutions to address Kuwait's digital inequalities. Recommendations included improving public access opportunities, enhancing digital skills through education and training programs, fostering a regulatory environment supportive of equitable digital participation, and engaging women in ICT planning and design processes.
The session concluded with a lively Q&A session, where attendees posed insightful questions. Dr. Al-Sumait addressed each query with detailed explanations, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange.
As ambassadors of knowledge and catalysts for change, AUK professors like Dr. Al-Sumait exemplify the University's dedication to academic excellence and social responsibility, making significant contributions to both scholarship and community development.
Dr. Fahed Al-Sumait
Group photo of the attendees
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06, May 2024
AUK Partners with HSBC Kuwait for Student Career Advancement
The Office of Alumni Affairs and Career Development (AACD) at AUK collaborated with Amideast to host the CEO and senior members of HSBC Bank Middle East Limited – Kuwait in an event aimed at empowering and guiding students toward careers in the private sector. The event, titled "Future Pathways – Careers & Opportunities in the Private Sector," is a panel discussion series that aims to introduce students to the nature and scope of employment available in the private sector and raises awareness of the various opportunities available.
AACD director, Ms. Abir El Tannir, commented on the importance of such panel discussions, “This event represents the power of collaboration between AUK (AACD) and Amideast, showcasing our dedication to empowering students and alumni on their career paths. We invite employers to share their insights through talks, seminars, and panel discussions, to provide invaluable opportunities for professional growth.”
The event featured a panel discussion moderated by Mr. Samer Alabed, chief executive officer of HSBC Bank Middle East Limited - Kuwait, along with senior speakers from HSBC, including Mr. Ahmed Al-Murad, head of wholesale banking; and Mr. Leith Ashkanani, head of regulatory conduct. The panelists shared their career paths and achievements, shedding light on the benefits and diverse employment possibilities in HSBC and the private sector.
Also in attendance were two distinguished alumni from AUK: Mr. Khaled Alrushaid AlBader, serving as a representative in his role as assistant manager – financial control, and Ms. Fatemah Alali, contributing as a panelist in her capacity as associate director of markets treasury.
"One of the four pillars of HSBC’s strategy is to 'Energize for Growth’, which means creating a dynamic culture where the best people want to work. The close collaboration with Amideast offers a perfect platform to share insight and valuable information about the career development and personal growth opportunities in the private sector for young professionals," remarked Samer Alabed, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC, Kuwait.
Mr. Samar Khleif, Country Director for Amideast, Kuwait, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, "Thanks to the support provided by HSBC and in collaboration with AUK, we hope that the students will continue to benefit from the information and guidance to enhance and develop their career opportunities and future growth prospects."
The collaborative effort between AUK, HSBC, and Amideast supports Kuwait's Vision 2035 by working together to shape the future of Kuwait’s workforce and encouraging more Kuwaitis to explore and pursue careers in the private sector.
AACD director, Ms. Abir El Tannir, commented on the importance of such panel discussions, “This event represents the power of collaboration between AUK (AACD) and Amideast, showcasing our dedication to empowering students and alumni on their career paths. We invite employers to share their insights through talks, seminars, and panel discussions, to provide invaluable opportunities for professional growth.”
The event featured a panel discussion moderated by Mr. Samer Alabed, chief executive officer of HSBC Bank Middle East Limited - Kuwait, along with senior speakers from HSBC, including Mr. Ahmed Al-Murad, head of wholesale banking; and Mr. Leith Ashkanani, head of regulatory conduct. The panelists shared their career paths and achievements, shedding light on the benefits and diverse employment possibilities in HSBC and the private sector.
Also in attendance were two distinguished alumni from AUK: Mr. Khaled Alrushaid AlBader, serving as a representative in his role as assistant manager – financial control, and Ms. Fatemah Alali, contributing as a panelist in her capacity as associate director of markets treasury.
"One of the four pillars of HSBC’s strategy is to 'Energize for Growth’, which means creating a dynamic culture where the best people want to work. The close collaboration with Amideast offers a perfect platform to share insight and valuable information about the career development and personal growth opportunities in the private sector for young professionals," remarked Samer Alabed, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC, Kuwait.
Mr. Samar Khleif, Country Director for Amideast, Kuwait, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, "Thanks to the support provided by HSBC and in collaboration with AUK, we hope that the students will continue to benefit from the information and guidance to enhance and develop their career opportunities and future growth prospects."
The collaborative effort between AUK, HSBC, and Amideast supports Kuwait's Vision 2035 by working together to shape the future of Kuwait’s workforce and encouraging more Kuwaitis to explore and pursue careers in the private sector.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, giving her welcome speech
The panelists
Mr. Samer Alabed during the panel discussion
AUK and HSBC representatives
General photo of the audience
06, May 2024
Shaping Futures: AUK Hosts 19th Annual Career Growth Fair
AUK held its 19th Annual Career Growth Fair where employers from leading companies across Kuwait visit campus to discuss future employment opportunities with AUK students and alumni. This initiative is part of AUK's commitment to providing its community with opportunities to meet face-to-face with future employers to explore possible career options. The Career Growth Fair was organized by AUK's Office of Alumni Affairs and Career Development (AACD) and took place at the AUK gymnasium.
This year’s event had four platinum sponsors represented by Burgan Bank, United Real Estate Company, IKEA, and Bukhamseen Holding; and five gold sponsors including SPARK Athletic Center, Kamco Invest, Al-Tijari Bank, Habchi & Chalhoub Trading W.L.L, and Talabat; and four silver sponsors Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co. K.S.C.C, City Group Co, Nestle, and Philip Morris Management Services (Middle East) Limited, in addition to more than 10 general participants who contributed to the success of the event.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, inaugurated the fair with a speech and a tour during which she discussed with the participating organizations their job offerings and required student qualifications. In her opening statement, Dr. Rawda highlighted the distinctiveness of AUK students, “Today, you will meet the brightest minds from our diverse student body. Our students are more than just well-educated; they're dynamic thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators. Regardless of their major, they bring a unique perspective and adaptability that make them ideal candidates for entry-level positions and beyond.”
Abir El Tannir, AACD director, commented on the significance of AUK’s Career Growth Fair and what it entails, “At AUK's Career Growth Fair, sustainability isn't just a theme; it's about shaping a future where success means caring for our planet and communities. Here, students and alumni come together, paving the way for meaningful careers and making a difference. With companies led by AUK alumni on board, we're showing that sustainability isn't just talk, but a path we're walking together.”
The resonance of AUK's 19th Annual Career Growth Fair extends far beyond the exchange of CVs and brochures. It stands as a testament to the institution's unwavering commitment to shaping not just careers, but futures filled with purpose and sustainability.
This year’s event had four platinum sponsors represented by Burgan Bank, United Real Estate Company, IKEA, and Bukhamseen Holding; and five gold sponsors including SPARK Athletic Center, Kamco Invest, Al-Tijari Bank, Habchi & Chalhoub Trading W.L.L, and Talabat; and four silver sponsors Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co. K.S.C.C, City Group Co, Nestle, and Philip Morris Management Services (Middle East) Limited, in addition to more than 10 general participants who contributed to the success of the event.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, inaugurated the fair with a speech and a tour during which she discussed with the participating organizations their job offerings and required student qualifications. In her opening statement, Dr. Rawda highlighted the distinctiveness of AUK students, “Today, you will meet the brightest minds from our diverse student body. Our students are more than just well-educated; they're dynamic thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators. Regardless of their major, they bring a unique perspective and adaptability that make them ideal candidates for entry-level positions and beyond.”
Abir El Tannir, AACD director, commented on the significance of AUK’s Career Growth Fair and what it entails, “At AUK's Career Growth Fair, sustainability isn't just a theme; it's about shaping a future where success means caring for our planet and communities. Here, students and alumni come together, paving the way for meaningful careers and making a difference. With companies led by AUK alumni on board, we're showing that sustainability isn't just talk, but a path we're walking together.”
The resonance of AUK's 19th Annual Career Growth Fair extends far beyond the exchange of CVs and brochures. It stands as a testament to the institution's unwavering commitment to shaping not just careers, but futures filled with purpose and sustainability.
Dr. Rawda Awwad with sponsor representatives
Group photo of AACD members
General photos from the Career Growth Fair
General photos from the Career Growth Fair
05, May 2024
Leading the Charge: AUK's Panel Discussion on Kuwait's Sustainable Future
The Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK hosted a panel discussion entitled "Energy and Environmental Sustainability in Kuwait" at the campus theater. The panel discussion brought together experts in energy conservation, government policy, and artificial intelligence to review current efforts and plan for a more sustainable future in Kuwait.
Participating in the panel discussion were AUK assistant professor of management, Dr. Ahmad Al-Saber; Dr. Yehya Al-Hadban from the Kuwait Institute of Scientific Research (KISR); Dr. Dhary Al Kandary, assistant professor in the Environmental Sciences Department at Kuwait University (KU); and Dr. Marwan Al-Dimashki from the Kuwait Environment Protection Agency.
ORG director, Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, commenced the event by extending a warm welcome and emphasizing the importance of delving into sustainable energy and environmental concerns, particularly given their profound implications for future generations.
Dr. Al-Hadban elaborated on effective operational tactics for air conditioning systems, the significance of thermal energy storage, and forthcoming trends in energy conservation, whilst Dr. Al-Kandary shared an overview of the effectiveness of recent efforts in monitoring and improving the seawater quality around Kuwait.
The status of Kuwait's government initiatives in controlling air quality and supporting environmental research was also discussed, whereby Dr. Al-Dimashki reflected on how these efforts align with international standards. Dr. Al-Saber provided his expertise on the application of artificial intelligence in environmental monitoring, discussing the potential for AI-driven solutions to further environmental research and policymaking in Kuwait.
AUK's endeavors are not merely academic pursuits but tangible expressions of its commitment to shaping a more sustainable future for Kuwait and beyond. As AUK continues to lead the charge in driving meaningful change, it reaffirms its position as a pioneer in its dedication to fostering a more environmentally conscious world.
Participating in the panel discussion were AUK assistant professor of management, Dr. Ahmad Al-Saber; Dr. Yehya Al-Hadban from the Kuwait Institute of Scientific Research (KISR); Dr. Dhary Al Kandary, assistant professor in the Environmental Sciences Department at Kuwait University (KU); and Dr. Marwan Al-Dimashki from the Kuwait Environment Protection Agency.
ORG director, Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, commenced the event by extending a warm welcome and emphasizing the importance of delving into sustainable energy and environmental concerns, particularly given their profound implications for future generations.
Dr. Al-Hadban elaborated on effective operational tactics for air conditioning systems, the significance of thermal energy storage, and forthcoming trends in energy conservation, whilst Dr. Al-Kandary shared an overview of the effectiveness of recent efforts in monitoring and improving the seawater quality around Kuwait.
The status of Kuwait's government initiatives in controlling air quality and supporting environmental research was also discussed, whereby Dr. Al-Dimashki reflected on how these efforts align with international standards. Dr. Al-Saber provided his expertise on the application of artificial intelligence in environmental monitoring, discussing the potential for AI-driven solutions to further environmental research and policymaking in Kuwait.
AUK's endeavors are not merely academic pursuits but tangible expressions of its commitment to shaping a more sustainable future for Kuwait and beyond. As AUK continues to lead the charge in driving meaningful change, it reaffirms its position as a pioneer in its dedication to fostering a more environmentally conscious world.
General photo of panel discussion
AUK members with panelists
04, May 2024
Crafting Cultural Narratives: AUK Hosts Jassim Al Nashmi
The Art and Graphic Design Department at AUK hosted Jassim Al-Nashmi, who is renowned for his innovative approach to architecture, interior design, and industrial design. Al-Nashmi presented his talk titled, "Renegotiating Identity" at the campus theater, where he delved into insights garnered from his extensive research and professional journey.
Al-Nashmi discussed his endeavors to counteract kitsch—cheaply made, disposable versions of fine art pieces—in Kuwait through meticulously-crafted design solutions. His creative solutions challenge and transform spaces often plagued by kitsch, creating aesthetically pleasing and culturally resonant environments.
By reexploring Arab and Islamic design, Al-Nashmi seeks to redefine and elevate Kuwaiti architectural and design standards, providing a promising future for design in Kuwait. Throughout the talk, Al-Nashmi showcased impressive projects, each a testament to his innovative design solutions. He carefully considers cultural context and successfully implements innovative design strategies to mitigate the prevalence of kitsch, which demonstrates the power of design in shaping and reshaping cultural identity.
Al-Nashmi’s insights resonated profoundly within the AUK community, where hosting individuals who engage in such discussions is essential to nurturing a dynamic and cultured community.
Al-Nashmi discussed his endeavors to counteract kitsch—cheaply made, disposable versions of fine art pieces—in Kuwait through meticulously-crafted design solutions. His creative solutions challenge and transform spaces often plagued by kitsch, creating aesthetically pleasing and culturally resonant environments.
By reexploring Arab and Islamic design, Al-Nashmi seeks to redefine and elevate Kuwaiti architectural and design standards, providing a promising future for design in Kuwait. Throughout the talk, Al-Nashmi showcased impressive projects, each a testament to his innovative design solutions. He carefully considers cultural context and successfully implements innovative design strategies to mitigate the prevalence of kitsch, which demonstrates the power of design in shaping and reshaping cultural identity.
Al-Nashmi’s insights resonated profoundly within the AUK community, where hosting individuals who engage in such discussions is essential to nurturing a dynamic and cultured community.
Jassim AlNamshi during his presentation
22, Apr 2024
AUK and European Partners Come Together to Create Interactive Learning Experiences on Climate Change for Kuwaiti Youth
AUK in collaboration with the European Union Delegation to Kuwait and the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Foundation (KAS) hosted a two-day simulation game on sustainability and climate change. The games were aimed at AUK students from various colleges and took place on-campus.
The simulation game engaged AUK students in exploring and formulating comprehensive climate resilience policies through interactive simulations and collaborative discussions. The activity aimed at facilitating skill-building as well as providing a better understanding of the importance of climate action and the art of negotiations when making inclusive policy decisions. It also aimed to encourage youth participation in sustainability discussions and solution-building through creative thinking.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, AUK President, Dr. Rawda Awwad, said, “Tonight we are embarking on an incredible journey, which transcends boundaries and redefines the very essence of traditional education. Imagine for a moment the world as our students see it, a world not confined to the pages of textbooks or the walls of classrooms, but a world where the backyard becomes our front yard, and every corner holds the promise of discovery. This paradigm shift is at the heart of AUK’s liberal arts mission, an education that knows no bounds, that empowers our students to think globally, and act globally. To make the world better. And what better environment of this philosophy than the simulation game on sustainability policy.”
Addressing the students, H.E. Anne Koistinen, European Union Ambassador to Kuwait highlighted the importance of youth participation in addressing climate change and sustainability challenges. She said: “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time and the EU remains committed to fostering collaborations with all the stakeholders in Kuwait to address it. This simulation game is part of long series of engagements the EU Delegation has organised with educational institutions in Kuwait to enable skills-building and closer bilateral cooperation in the academic field. I am pleased to see that our first activity in the context of Europe Month this year has a focus on Youth and Climate Action, both being top priorities for the European Union.”
Philipp Dienstbier, Director of the Regional Programme Gulf at the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Foundation added: “As the impacts of climate change will have an imminent effect on the young generation in the Gulf region, we aim to actively engage and strengthen their engagement in climate affairs. Projects like this simulation game, which engaged exemplary students from the American University in Kuwait, or prior endeavors of KAS, such as a side event at COP28 that allowed young delegates from the GCC to showcase their climate change initiatives in their respective countries, allow us to empower the next generation on this urgent issue as part of our ongoing efforts across the region."
The students developed a comprehensive climate resilience plan and learnt how to identify common goals, reach a consensus and outline the outcomes in a common resolution, also harnessing their negotiation and presentation skills. They also benefited from learnings around a myriad of topics such as water, energy, food security, health, and the economy, providing creative solutions to address climate change.
The simulation game was facilitated by CRISP, a non-profit Berlin-based organisation committed to empowering individuals and communities to address complex societal challenges.
The simulation game engaged AUK students in exploring and formulating comprehensive climate resilience policies through interactive simulations and collaborative discussions. The activity aimed at facilitating skill-building as well as providing a better understanding of the importance of climate action and the art of negotiations when making inclusive policy decisions. It also aimed to encourage youth participation in sustainability discussions and solution-building through creative thinking.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, AUK President, Dr. Rawda Awwad, said, “Tonight we are embarking on an incredible journey, which transcends boundaries and redefines the very essence of traditional education. Imagine for a moment the world as our students see it, a world not confined to the pages of textbooks or the walls of classrooms, but a world where the backyard becomes our front yard, and every corner holds the promise of discovery. This paradigm shift is at the heart of AUK’s liberal arts mission, an education that knows no bounds, that empowers our students to think globally, and act globally. To make the world better. And what better environment of this philosophy than the simulation game on sustainability policy.”
Addressing the students, H.E. Anne Koistinen, European Union Ambassador to Kuwait highlighted the importance of youth participation in addressing climate change and sustainability challenges. She said: “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time and the EU remains committed to fostering collaborations with all the stakeholders in Kuwait to address it. This simulation game is part of long series of engagements the EU Delegation has organised with educational institutions in Kuwait to enable skills-building and closer bilateral cooperation in the academic field. I am pleased to see that our first activity in the context of Europe Month this year has a focus on Youth and Climate Action, both being top priorities for the European Union.”
Philipp Dienstbier, Director of the Regional Programme Gulf at the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Foundation added: “As the impacts of climate change will have an imminent effect on the young generation in the Gulf region, we aim to actively engage and strengthen their engagement in climate affairs. Projects like this simulation game, which engaged exemplary students from the American University in Kuwait, or prior endeavors of KAS, such as a side event at COP28 that allowed young delegates from the GCC to showcase their climate change initiatives in their respective countries, allow us to empower the next generation on this urgent issue as part of our ongoing efforts across the region."
The students developed a comprehensive climate resilience plan and learnt how to identify common goals, reach a consensus and outline the outcomes in a common resolution, also harnessing their negotiation and presentation skills. They also benefited from learnings around a myriad of topics such as water, energy, food security, health, and the economy, providing creative solutions to address climate change.
The simulation game was facilitated by CRISP, a non-profit Berlin-based organisation committed to empowering individuals and communities to address complex societal challenges.
Dr. Rawda Awwad, AUK president, giving her speech
H.E. Anne Koistinen, European Union Ambassador to Kuwait, giving her speech
Philipp Dienstbier, Director of the Regional Programme Gulf at the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Foundation, giving his speech
Group photo of particpants and organizers
17, Apr 2024
Dartmouth Fellowship Granted to AUK Faculty Belal Gharaibeh
Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Research and Grants (CRG) at Dartmouth College, the Dartmouth Fellowship has been granted to Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, associate professor of systems engineering, at the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS) at AUK.
Dr. Gharaibeh will be working with Dr. Douglas W. Van Citters on a project entitled “A Comprehensive Study of Radiation Effects on 3D Printed Polymers,” which explores the mechanical and chemical alterations of materials following radiation exposure. Such research is critical for understanding how these materials, widely used in high-stakes environments such as nuclear energy, medical technology, and aerospace, behave under extreme conditions.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, reflected on the Dartmouth Fellowship and what it entails, “In the pursuit of knowledge and innovation, the Dartmouth Fellowship serves as a beacon of collaboration and excellence. Through Dr. Belal Gharaibeh's groundbreaking research on radiation effects in 3D printed polymers, we witness the transformative power of interdisciplinary partnerships. This endeavor not only enriches the academic landscape of AUK but also propels us towards a future where scientific advancements redefine the boundaries of possibility."
The fellowship program will run for 8 weeks in the summer of 2024, from June to August. Commenting on the significance of this collaboration, Dr. Gharaibeh stated, “Our collaboration with Dr. Douglas W. Van Citters at Dartmouth College is pivotal to this project. Leveraging his lab's state-of-the-art facilities and expertise ensures a comprehensive analysis of the radiation effects on polymers. This partnership not only augments the scope of our research but also enhances the educational experience for AUK interns, exposing them to cutting-edge research and diverse disciplines.”
This research is anticipated to significantly advance the understanding of 3D printed materials in high-radiation environments. By filling existing knowledge gaps, the findings could lead to innovative applications across various sectors, potentially revolutionizing manufacturing methods in the nuclear industry, enhancing component design in synchrotrons, and improving the safety and efficacy of medical implants.
The Dartmouth Fellowship empowers AUK recipients to produce impactful research, offering a distinctive avenue for professional growth within the University's scholarly network. Dartmouth and AUK have leveraged their partnership over twenty years, engaging in collaborative research, joint initiatives, and resource sharing, fostering strong connections among students and faculty from diverse backgrounds.
Dr. Gharaibeh will be working with Dr. Douglas W. Van Citters on a project entitled “A Comprehensive Study of Radiation Effects on 3D Printed Polymers,” which explores the mechanical and chemical alterations of materials following radiation exposure. Such research is critical for understanding how these materials, widely used in high-stakes environments such as nuclear energy, medical technology, and aerospace, behave under extreme conditions.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, reflected on the Dartmouth Fellowship and what it entails, “In the pursuit of knowledge and innovation, the Dartmouth Fellowship serves as a beacon of collaboration and excellence. Through Dr. Belal Gharaibeh's groundbreaking research on radiation effects in 3D printed polymers, we witness the transformative power of interdisciplinary partnerships. This endeavor not only enriches the academic landscape of AUK but also propels us towards a future where scientific advancements redefine the boundaries of possibility."
The fellowship program will run for 8 weeks in the summer of 2024, from June to August. Commenting on the significance of this collaboration, Dr. Gharaibeh stated, “Our collaboration with Dr. Douglas W. Van Citters at Dartmouth College is pivotal to this project. Leveraging his lab's state-of-the-art facilities and expertise ensures a comprehensive analysis of the radiation effects on polymers. This partnership not only augments the scope of our research but also enhances the educational experience for AUK interns, exposing them to cutting-edge research and diverse disciplines.”
This research is anticipated to significantly advance the understanding of 3D printed materials in high-radiation environments. By filling existing knowledge gaps, the findings could lead to innovative applications across various sectors, potentially revolutionizing manufacturing methods in the nuclear industry, enhancing component design in synchrotrons, and improving the safety and efficacy of medical implants.
The Dartmouth Fellowship empowers AUK recipients to produce impactful research, offering a distinctive avenue for professional growth within the University's scholarly network. Dartmouth and AUK have leveraged their partnership over twenty years, engaging in collaborative research, joint initiatives, and resource sharing, fostering strong connections among students and faculty from diverse backgrounds.
Dr. Belal Gharaibeh
14, Apr 2024
AUK Faculty's KFAS Grant Promises Change in Policymaking Landscape
Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, assistant professor of management at the American University of Kuwait (AUK), and his team successfully secured a grant from KFAS for their research project titled “Assessing the relationship between air pollutants on rheumatoid arthritis activity score.” This project aims to delve into the connections between air pollution exposure and the disease activity score (DAS28) among rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in Kuwait.
Dr. Alsaber's expertise in machine learning, particularly the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) approach, will be instrumental in analyzing the data spanning from 2013 to 2023. The project also utilizes advanced statistical methods such as the vector error correction model (VECM) and multiple imputation (MI) techniques to ensure robustness in the analysis.
The research project focuses on key air pollutants including SO2, NO2, PM10, CO, and O3, studying their impact on RA patients' disease activity scores. By employing Granger causality tests, Impulse Response Functions (IRFs) analysis, cointegration tests, unit root tests, and panel VECM, Dr. Alsaber aims to establish both static and dynamic causality between air pollutant emissions and RA disease activity scores.
This research not only contributes to advancing scientific knowledge but also holds practical implications for policymakers. The results obtained from this study will be pivotal in informing health and environmental policies in Kuwait, aiding policymakers from the Ministry of Health and the Environmental Public Authority in formulating strategies to manage RA disease activity scores effectively through interventions based on air quality indices (AQI).
Dr. Alsaber’s project represents a significant step towards bridging the gap between environmental factors and public health outcomes in Kuwait. His research epitomizes the ethos of AUK's faculty, who not only excel in their academic pursuits but also actively contribute to the betterment of society.
Dr. Alsaber's expertise in machine learning, particularly the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) approach, will be instrumental in analyzing the data spanning from 2013 to 2023. The project also utilizes advanced statistical methods such as the vector error correction model (VECM) and multiple imputation (MI) techniques to ensure robustness in the analysis.
The research project focuses on key air pollutants including SO2, NO2, PM10, CO, and O3, studying their impact on RA patients' disease activity scores. By employing Granger causality tests, Impulse Response Functions (IRFs) analysis, cointegration tests, unit root tests, and panel VECM, Dr. Alsaber aims to establish both static and dynamic causality between air pollutant emissions and RA disease activity scores.
This research not only contributes to advancing scientific knowledge but also holds practical implications for policymakers. The results obtained from this study will be pivotal in informing health and environmental policies in Kuwait, aiding policymakers from the Ministry of Health and the Environmental Public Authority in formulating strategies to manage RA disease activity scores effectively through interventions based on air quality indices (AQI).
Dr. Alsaber’s project represents a significant step towards bridging the gap between environmental factors and public health outcomes in Kuwait. His research epitomizes the ethos of AUK's faculty, who not only excel in their academic pursuits but also actively contribute to the betterment of society.
Dr. Ahmad Alsaber
14, Apr 2024
Dr. Malek Mohammad Explores Ethics and Literature Intersection in New Book
Dr. Malek Mohammad, assistant professor of English at AUK, recently published a groundbreaking book that delves into the intersection of literature and ethics.
The book interrogates the concepts of dignity, power and biopolitics as articulated by European philosophers Michel Foucault and Georgio Agamben and as explored in the works of non-native novelists of the English canon such as J. M. Coetzee and Kazuo Ishiguro.
Published by Ethics Press, a respected UK-based publisher dedicated to promoting books that explore ethical concerns, this work aligns perfectly with the press's mission. Ethics Press aims to be a leading publisher in this field, with most of its publications authored by esteemed faculty and leaders from universities and organizations worldwide.
Over the past four decades, the "ethical turn" in literary studies has profoundly influenced the methods used in teaching and studying literature. Dr. Malek’s classes reflect this shift. Whether it's an introductory critical reading and writing course or an advanced English seminar, he prioritizes the integration of ethical considerations, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the learning experience.
Dr. Malek Mohammad earned his Ph.D. in English from Texas A&M University in 2010. His doctoral dissertation is titled “The Discourse of Human Dignity and Techniques of Disempowerment: Giorgio Agamben, J. M. Coetzee, and Kazuo Ishiguro.” He taught writing and literature courses in Texas (USA), and since 2012 he has been an assistant professor of English at the American University of Kuwait, where he taught Approaches to Critical Reading and Writing; Writing and Information Literacy; Public Speaking; World Literatures in Translation; World Literatures in English; and Literary Theory and Criticism. His research interests include modern Anglophone literature, ethics, human rights discourse, and the symbiosis of culture and economy.
The book can be purchased here.
The book interrogates the concepts of dignity, power and biopolitics as articulated by European philosophers Michel Foucault and Georgio Agamben and as explored in the works of non-native novelists of the English canon such as J. M. Coetzee and Kazuo Ishiguro.
Published by Ethics Press, a respected UK-based publisher dedicated to promoting books that explore ethical concerns, this work aligns perfectly with the press's mission. Ethics Press aims to be a leading publisher in this field, with most of its publications authored by esteemed faculty and leaders from universities and organizations worldwide.
Over the past four decades, the "ethical turn" in literary studies has profoundly influenced the methods used in teaching and studying literature. Dr. Malek’s classes reflect this shift. Whether it's an introductory critical reading and writing course or an advanced English seminar, he prioritizes the integration of ethical considerations, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the learning experience.
Dr. Malek Mohammad earned his Ph.D. in English from Texas A&M University in 2010. His doctoral dissertation is titled “The Discourse of Human Dignity and Techniques of Disempowerment: Giorgio Agamben, J. M. Coetzee, and Kazuo Ishiguro.” He taught writing and literature courses in Texas (USA), and since 2012 he has been an assistant professor of English at the American University of Kuwait, where he taught Approaches to Critical Reading and Writing; Writing and Information Literacy; Public Speaking; World Literatures in Translation; World Literatures in English; and Literary Theory and Criticism. His research interests include modern Anglophone literature, ethics, human rights discourse, and the symbiosis of culture and economy.
The book can be purchased here.
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