News
13, Jun 2023
AUK University Librarian Awarded Outstanding Volunteer Service Award by Amical Consortium
AUK Librarian, Ms. Asmaa Al Kanan, received the Outstanding Volunteer Service award by the American International Consortium of Academic Libraries (AMICAL). The AMICAL director presented the award at the AMICAL 2023 annual conference at Al-Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco. Ms. Al-Kanan attended online where she was acknowledged as the award recipient.
The award recognizes an AMICAL member who has made exceptional and sustained efforts in support of consortial goals. The AMICAL’s coordinating committee presented the award to Ms. Al-Kanan for the contributions she has made for the benefit of the AMICAL Consortium and its members. This award recognizes in particular her stewardship of AMICAL’s leadership and assessment committee, her work on developing and implementing AMICAL’s library benchmarking tool, and her exceptional collaboration and leadership in hosting and co-organizing the AMICAL 2020 conference at AUK.
Commenting on this achievement, Ms. Al-Kanan stated, “AMICAL has offered opportunities and support to libraries and educational projects throughout the years such as professional development, annual conferences, access to resources, collaborative projects and a network of professional community. I’m grateful for all that and it keeps me encouraged to give back to this wonderful community. Being part of AMICAL has been so rewarding, as well as voluntary work and service.”
AMICAL is an international consortium of 30 American‐modeled liberal arts institutions in 20 different countries, working together on common goals for libraries, technology and learning. It is a cooperative organization for advancing learning, teaching and research through the collaborative development of library, technology, and curricular resources at member institutions.
The award recognizes an AMICAL member who has made exceptional and sustained efforts in support of consortial goals. The AMICAL’s coordinating committee presented the award to Ms. Al-Kanan for the contributions she has made for the benefit of the AMICAL Consortium and its members. This award recognizes in particular her stewardship of AMICAL’s leadership and assessment committee, her work on developing and implementing AMICAL’s library benchmarking tool, and her exceptional collaboration and leadership in hosting and co-organizing the AMICAL 2020 conference at AUK.
Commenting on this achievement, Ms. Al-Kanan stated, “AMICAL has offered opportunities and support to libraries and educational projects throughout the years such as professional development, annual conferences, access to resources, collaborative projects and a network of professional community. I’m grateful for all that and it keeps me encouraged to give back to this wonderful community. Being part of AMICAL has been so rewarding, as well as voluntary work and service.”
AMICAL is an international consortium of 30 American‐modeled liberal arts institutions in 20 different countries, working together on common goals for libraries, technology and learning. It is a cooperative organization for advancing learning, teaching and research through the collaborative development of library, technology, and curricular resources at member institutions.
Ms. Asma Al Kanan, University Librarian
12, Jun 2023
AUK CEAS Holds Annual Capstone Exhibition
AUK College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS) held its second capstone exhibition that included over a hundred students presenting their graduation projects, incorporating novel prototypes that combined their hardware and software skills. The event was open to students, alumni, parents, and industry representatives.
A total of 24 groups showcased their projects through informative posters, research papers, leaflets, and video displays. Supervised by faculty members of the College, students presented a wide range of prototypes such as Solar Cars, Hybrid Bicycles, IoT-Based PV Monitoring Systems, Smart Glasses, Portable Radiation Indicators, Surveillance Robots, and Handicapped Alerting Systems.
The event concluded with an award ceremony at the campus theater where AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, congratulated the students, “I applaud you for your remarkable achievement in completing your capstone event. You have taken your capstone experience to an extraordinary level and have shown a relentless thirst for innovation and exploration. As mentors, we have been part of your growth. However, today, I humbly acknowledge that the tables have turned. You are becoming our teachers, and our guides to the future. When that happens, we can say that we’ve done our job well. You will pave the way for future generations with what you know to ensure progress and constructive change.”
The award ceremony also featured a keynote speech delivered by Mr. Hadi Nazari Mehrabi, Group CEO at NorthTelecom in which he motivated students to work hard, “Regardless of how talented you may be, your hard work will determine the results you get in your career and life. So, whether you choose to get a job or start your own business, make sure that you give it your all.”
Dr. Mohamed El-Abd, CEAS associate and interim dean, commented on the success of the event, “The exhibition marks a significant milestone in the academic journey of our graduating students. It represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and commitment. The participation of our graduating students in this exhibition is a testament to their growth, resilience, and the depth of knowledge they have acquired over the past 4 years. All works presented in the exhibition reflect our students’ passion for learning, ability to solve complex problems, and readiness to contribute meaningfully to society.”
A total of three winners were announced for the engineering category—the first-place winner was for project Solar Car, by Laila Dallol, Othman Al-Salili, Majed Al-Dhafeeri, Ahmad Aldandan, and supervised by Dr.Seyed Esmaeili, and Dr.Ghulam Amjad Hussain with Eng. Fatima Baderddine acting as co-supervisor.
The second-place winner for the engineering project award was Pipeline Leak Identification Emergency Robot Swarm (PLIERS), by Reem Qasem, Fatima Matook, Ali Darwiche, Ahmad Younis, and supervised by Dr. Mounib Khanafer with Eng. Ali Rady acting as co-supervisor.
The third-place winner was FORG3D- Dual 3D Printer, by Mohammad AlHamad, Ahmad Abutaleb, Khaled Alrashed, Meshari Alrof, and supervised by Dr. Seyed Esmaeili.
Mobile Brain Computer Interface Motor Imagery was the winning project award for the computer science and information systems (CSIS) category. The project was implemented by Abdulaziz Althekair, Mohanned Odeh, Mohammad Albayya, and supervised by Dr. Marwa Mostafa.
Smart Farm was the winning project award for the student choice award. The project was implemented by Feraas El-Sabaa, Ahmed Singer, Yousef AlRefaei, Fatemah Abbas, and supervised by Dr. Mounib Khanafer.
A total of 24 groups showcased their projects through informative posters, research papers, leaflets, and video displays. Supervised by faculty members of the College, students presented a wide range of prototypes such as Solar Cars, Hybrid Bicycles, IoT-Based PV Monitoring Systems, Smart Glasses, Portable Radiation Indicators, Surveillance Robots, and Handicapped Alerting Systems.
The event concluded with an award ceremony at the campus theater where AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, congratulated the students, “I applaud you for your remarkable achievement in completing your capstone event. You have taken your capstone experience to an extraordinary level and have shown a relentless thirst for innovation and exploration. As mentors, we have been part of your growth. However, today, I humbly acknowledge that the tables have turned. You are becoming our teachers, and our guides to the future. When that happens, we can say that we’ve done our job well. You will pave the way for future generations with what you know to ensure progress and constructive change.”
The award ceremony also featured a keynote speech delivered by Mr. Hadi Nazari Mehrabi, Group CEO at NorthTelecom in which he motivated students to work hard, “Regardless of how talented you may be, your hard work will determine the results you get in your career and life. So, whether you choose to get a job or start your own business, make sure that you give it your all.”
Dr. Mohamed El-Abd, CEAS associate and interim dean, commented on the success of the event, “The exhibition marks a significant milestone in the academic journey of our graduating students. It represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and commitment. The participation of our graduating students in this exhibition is a testament to their growth, resilience, and the depth of knowledge they have acquired over the past 4 years. All works presented in the exhibition reflect our students’ passion for learning, ability to solve complex problems, and readiness to contribute meaningfully to society.”
A total of three winners were announced for the engineering category—the first-place winner was for project Solar Car, by Laila Dallol, Othman Al-Salili, Majed Al-Dhafeeri, Ahmad Aldandan, and supervised by Dr.Seyed Esmaeili, and Dr.Ghulam Amjad Hussain with Eng. Fatima Baderddine acting as co-supervisor.
The second-place winner for the engineering project award was Pipeline Leak Identification Emergency Robot Swarm (PLIERS), by Reem Qasem, Fatima Matook, Ali Darwiche, Ahmad Younis, and supervised by Dr. Mounib Khanafer with Eng. Ali Rady acting as co-supervisor.
The third-place winner was FORG3D- Dual 3D Printer, by Mohammad AlHamad, Ahmad Abutaleb, Khaled Alrashed, Meshari Alrof, and supervised by Dr. Seyed Esmaeili.
Mobile Brain Computer Interface Motor Imagery was the winning project award for the computer science and information systems (CSIS) category. The project was implemented by Abdulaziz Althekair, Mohanned Odeh, Mohammad Albayya, and supervised by Dr. Marwa Mostafa.
Smart Farm was the winning project award for the student choice award. The project was implemented by Feraas El-Sabaa, Ahmed Singer, Yousef AlRefaei, Fatemah Abbas, and supervised by Dr. Mounib Khanafer.
First-place winners for project Solar Car
Second-place winners for project Pipeline Leak Identification Emergency Robot Swarm (PLIERS)
Third-place winners for project FORG3D- Dual 3D Printer
CSIS winners for project Mobile Brain Computer Interface Motor Imagery
Student choice award winners for project Smart Farm
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, talking to a participant in the CEAS exhibition
Showing
10 Articles
of 1461
08, Jun 2023
AUK CTE Hosts Artificial Intelligence in Education Workshop for IEP Instructors
The Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) at AUK collaborated with the Intensive English Program (IEP) to host a workshop titled, “IEP Professional Development Workshop.” The workshop was presented by Dr. Shereen Hamadeh, the founder of Via Education Strategists, a US-based company which aims to help education systems innovate and evolve.
The workshop aimed to strengthen IEP instructors’ expertise in utilizing a wide range of AI technologies, going beyond the scope of ChatGPT. Instructors gained valuable insights into detecting AI-generated work—a prominent and emerging challenge in the modern educational landscape.
The IEP instructors’ newfound understanding of AI processes and limitations facilitated the drafting of a cohesive, shared AI policy. The workshop also fostered a collective approach to tackling AI-related issues, promoting a consistent and informed stance on AI use within the institution. Consequently, this supports a fair, transparent, and accountable learning environment, while also preparing students for a future where AI plays an increasingly vital and unavoidable role.
AUK is at the forefront of technological advancements, continuously staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of education through updating its teaching methodologies.
The workshop aimed to strengthen IEP instructors’ expertise in utilizing a wide range of AI technologies, going beyond the scope of ChatGPT. Instructors gained valuable insights into detecting AI-generated work—a prominent and emerging challenge in the modern educational landscape.
The IEP instructors’ newfound understanding of AI processes and limitations facilitated the drafting of a cohesive, shared AI policy. The workshop also fostered a collective approach to tackling AI-related issues, promoting a consistent and informed stance on AI use within the institution. Consequently, this supports a fair, transparent, and accountable learning environment, while also preparing students for a future where AI plays an increasingly vital and unavoidable role.
AUK is at the forefront of technological advancements, continuously staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of education through updating its teaching methodologies.
General photo from the workshop
08, Jun 2023
AUK ORG Hosts Innovation 101 Lecture
The Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK organized a lecture titled, Innovation 101, presented by Eng. Mai AlOwaish, a chief data and innovation officer at Gulf Bank. The lecture delved into the culture of innovation and its definition.
The event commenced with a welcome from Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director, who introduced Eng. Mai as the keynote speaker. She began her insightful presentation by exploring the essence of innovation and its inherent value. She emphasized the growing significance of data-driven innovation in today's world, highlighting the importance of data.
Eng. Mai defined innovation as a multifaceted process that encompasses various elements such as hardware, software, services, and problem-solving solutions. She stated the importance of the use of data and analytics to develop or foster new products, processes, organizational methods, and markets. She also highlighted the importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how taking them into consideration can have an impact on the betterment of the world.
Eng. Mai is a seasoned information systems and data analytics expert with 20 years of experience between Kuwait and the United States where she led a variety of data analytics and e-commerce initiatives and enabled digital transformation and innovation for financial institutions, retailers, airlines, and more.
She is a board member of the Digital Analytics Association (DAA) and the recipient of the DAA President’s Awards. Her thoughts on analytics models were featured in the Applied Marketing Analytics journal and the Analytics Interpreted book. She was also a featured presenter on Google Summits, USA.
The lecture concluded with a Q&A session.
The event commenced with a welcome from Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director, who introduced Eng. Mai as the keynote speaker. She began her insightful presentation by exploring the essence of innovation and its inherent value. She emphasized the growing significance of data-driven innovation in today's world, highlighting the importance of data.
Eng. Mai defined innovation as a multifaceted process that encompasses various elements such as hardware, software, services, and problem-solving solutions. She stated the importance of the use of data and analytics to develop or foster new products, processes, organizational methods, and markets. She also highlighted the importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how taking them into consideration can have an impact on the betterment of the world.
Eng. Mai is a seasoned information systems and data analytics expert with 20 years of experience between Kuwait and the United States where she led a variety of data analytics and e-commerce initiatives and enabled digital transformation and innovation for financial institutions, retailers, airlines, and more.
She is a board member of the Digital Analytics Association (DAA) and the recipient of the DAA President’s Awards. Her thoughts on analytics models were featured in the Applied Marketing Analytics journal and the Analytics Interpreted book. She was also a featured presenter on Google Summits, USA.
The lecture concluded with a Q&A session.
Eng. Mai AlOwaish
Group photo
General photo of audience
08, Jun 2023
AUK Tutoring Center Launches Revamped CRLA Tutor Training Program
AUK Tutoring Center recently re-launched its Tutor Training Program, featuring new training topics and activities. Earlier this spring, the Center received certification renewal for their College Reading & Learning Association - International Peer Tutor Program Certification (CRLA - ITTPC) Level 1 Training.
As international members of CRLA, the Center’s staff conducted training sessions for a team of twenty-two peer tutors comprised of AUK students. The workshops spanned two days with participants actively engaging in several training modules and activities.
Alongside online training, readings, and one-on-one observations, the revamped in-person sessions allowed experienced tutors to complete their training requirements and receive CRLA certifications which are lifelong and continually upheld as long as the center remains certified, making this a valuable addition to our tutors’ achievements.
The certification earned by AUK's peer tutors validates their proficiency and expertise in their respective subjects, highlighting their outstanding academic performance and passion for assisting their fellow students in their educational journeys.
As international members of CRLA, the Center’s staff conducted training sessions for a team of twenty-two peer tutors comprised of AUK students. The workshops spanned two days with participants actively engaging in several training modules and activities.
Alongside online training, readings, and one-on-one observations, the revamped in-person sessions allowed experienced tutors to complete their training requirements and receive CRLA certifications which are lifelong and continually upheld as long as the center remains certified, making this a valuable addition to our tutors’ achievements.
The certification earned by AUK's peer tutors validates their proficiency and expertise in their respective subjects, highlighting their outstanding academic performance and passion for assisting their fellow students in their educational journeys.
Group Photo
TRC staff presenting
TRC staff presenting
Students presenting
Students during training
01, Jun 2023
AUK Art & Graphic Design Department Launches 16th Semiannual Capstone Exhibition
The Art & Graphic Design Department at AUK launched its 16th semiannual Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition which took place at the Promenade Cultural Centre. The exhibition offered senior students an opportunity to display their creative work which covered a range of themes, including social and cultural awareness, education, corporate identity, and entrepreneurship.
Teaching the capstone courses this year were assistant professor of graphic design, Rita Merheb, and lecturer of graphic design, Nadim Matta. 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, highlighted the significance of having an exhibition of this magnitude, “An exhibition of this profound scope serves as a great platform for our students to showcase their artwork. Each year, our capstone continues to surpass our expectations, reflecting the exceptional talent and dedication of our outstanding students and faculty. We are immensely grateful to AUK and PCC for their unwavering support and tremendous effort in making this exhibition possible."
The Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition brought together visitors from the field of graphic design, including experts from design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Capstone coordinator and assistant professor of graphic design, Claire Giddings, expressed her pride towards AUK’s students and the effort they put in, “Our students have truly outdone themselves with an extraordinary capstone exhibition. Their unwavering determination and resilience shine through in their remarkable accomplishments. The exhibition stands as a testament to the ingenuity of our students, showcasing a diverse array of phenomenal work that captivates and inspires.”
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.
Teaching the capstone courses this year were assistant professor of graphic design, Rita Merheb, and lecturer of graphic design, Nadim Matta. 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, highlighted the significance of having an exhibition of this magnitude, “An exhibition of this profound scope serves as a great platform for our students to showcase their artwork. Each year, our capstone continues to surpass our expectations, reflecting the exceptional talent and dedication of our outstanding students and faculty. We are immensely grateful to AUK and PCC for their unwavering support and tremendous effort in making this exhibition possible."
The Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition brought together visitors from the field of graphic design, including experts from design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Capstone coordinator and assistant professor of graphic design, Claire Giddings, expressed her pride towards AUK’s students and the effort they put in, “Our students have truly outdone themselves with an extraordinary capstone exhibition. Their unwavering determination and resilience shine through in their remarkable accomplishments. The exhibition stands as a testament to the ingenuity of our students, showcasing a diverse array of phenomenal work that captivates and inspires.”
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
31, May 2023
AUK CBE Hosts Guest Speaker Series
The College of Business and Economics (CBE) at AUK hosted their Guest Speaker Series as part of management adjunct instructor, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Quraishi’s Innovation in Business Startup course.
Dr. Al-Quraishi brought together entrepreneurs and industry experts to share their experience with aspiring business professionals in Kuwait. Invited to share their insights were AUK alumna Ms. Alaa Al-Zameel, Mr. Abdullah Sultan Bin Essa, and Mr. Ahmad Al-Barjas.
Ms. Al-Zameel is the co-founder and marketing director of Homood Jewelers, as well as the co-founder and managing partner of INTL.D. She shared her entrepreneurial journey, shedding light on the establishment of both businesses and the obstacles faced along the way. Ms. Al-Zameel provided invaluable guidelines on successfully operating a business within a niche market, underscoring the significance of cultivating strong relationships between businesses and consumers.
The series also featured Mr. Bin Essa, the director of Natureland. He offered insights into the business of organic products, attributing Natureland's success to its customer-centric approach, valuing and incorporating customer feedback in product development and pricing strategies.
Mr. Al-Barjas is the host of the popular ‘Manshor’ show on Al-Qabas TV. He highlighted the significance of media in shaping public opinion. Mr. Al-Barjas delivers news in an innovative and exclusive manner through his Instagram, often utilizing the platform's stories feature. He also highlighted the importance of credibility and reliable news delivery.
The Guest Speaker Series provides a platform for knowledge exchange and inspiration. Attendees gained valuable insights into business innovation, entrepreneurship, and effective strategies for success in various industries.
Dr. Al-Quraishi brought together entrepreneurs and industry experts to share their experience with aspiring business professionals in Kuwait. Invited to share their insights were AUK alumna Ms. Alaa Al-Zameel, Mr. Abdullah Sultan Bin Essa, and Mr. Ahmad Al-Barjas.
Ms. Al-Zameel is the co-founder and marketing director of Homood Jewelers, as well as the co-founder and managing partner of INTL.D. She shared her entrepreneurial journey, shedding light on the establishment of both businesses and the obstacles faced along the way. Ms. Al-Zameel provided invaluable guidelines on successfully operating a business within a niche market, underscoring the significance of cultivating strong relationships between businesses and consumers.
The series also featured Mr. Bin Essa, the director of Natureland. He offered insights into the business of organic products, attributing Natureland's success to its customer-centric approach, valuing and incorporating customer feedback in product development and pricing strategies.
Mr. Al-Barjas is the host of the popular ‘Manshor’ show on Al-Qabas TV. He highlighted the significance of media in shaping public opinion. Mr. Al-Barjas delivers news in an innovative and exclusive manner through his Instagram, often utilizing the platform's stories feature. He also highlighted the importance of credibility and reliable news delivery.
The Guest Speaker Series provides a platform for knowledge exchange and inspiration. Attendees gained valuable insights into business innovation, entrepreneurship, and effective strategies for success in various industries.
Mr. Ahmad AlBarjas and Dr. Abdulrahman Al Quraishi
Ms. Alaa Al Zameel
Mr. Abdullah Sultan Bin Essa
31, May 2023
AUK Hosts Annual Dinner
AUK hosted its Annual Dinner at the Regency Kuwait to celebrate the University’s administrative achievements and accomplishments. The event—organized by the University’s Human Resources Department—was attended by staff, faculty, and members of the president’s cabinet.
The event marked the 5, 10, and 15 years of service awards that were presented to employees who completed the respective years at AUK. This year's annual dinner was significant as it also marked the inaugural celebration of the 20 years' service award.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, conveyed her gratitude towards AUK employees in her opening statement, “None of our accomplishments would be possible without the support and recognition for your tireless efforts. Therefore, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication and perseverance that you have exhibited throughout your journey. So, let us continue to support and uplift one another, daring ourselves to embrace new challenges and fully embody the uniqueness that defines AUK. Let us carry the memory of evenings such as this one, cherishing the community we are part of, the togetherness we share, and the care we have for each other as we continue to grow and leave our mark on the world.”
AUK Executive Vice President, Ms. Amal Al-Binali, was among the 20-year awardees. She reflected on this significant milestone and shared her profound sentiments, stating, “I am grateful for the past 20 years at AUK, where I found not just a workplace but a second home. Together, we overcame challenges, celebrated triumphs, and formed lifelong connections. My heartfelt thanks to the exceptional teams at AUK who supported me throughout the journey. Let us continue striving for greatness and building on our success.”
HR senior director, Paul Bassil, highlighted the theme of this year’s annual dinner and its significance, “It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to you, gathered here today for this occasion where we will delve into the concept of ‘we are a book.’ In the same way that books hold captivating stories that touch our hearts and engage our minds, we, too, possess narratives that define us as individuals and as a collective. Each one of us represents a page, eager to be opened, read, and shared. Our stories are distinct, filled with unique twists and turns, moments of joy and sorrow, and instances of triumph and defeat. However, by exchanging our stories with one another, we can discover common ground, foster empathy, and cultivate understanding. Through the sharing of these individual narratives, we collectively contribute to the tale of our institution, AUK.”
The Annual Dinner also offered attendees enjoyable entertainment, including musical performances, magic shows, and a raffle draw to conclude the festivities.
AUK’s strong culture of employee recognition is regularly expressed through events such as the annual dinner that highlight the contributions of faculty and staff.
The event marked the 5, 10, and 15 years of service awards that were presented to employees who completed the respective years at AUK. This year's annual dinner was significant as it also marked the inaugural celebration of the 20 years' service award.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, conveyed her gratitude towards AUK employees in her opening statement, “None of our accomplishments would be possible without the support and recognition for your tireless efforts. Therefore, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication and perseverance that you have exhibited throughout your journey. So, let us continue to support and uplift one another, daring ourselves to embrace new challenges and fully embody the uniqueness that defines AUK. Let us carry the memory of evenings such as this one, cherishing the community we are part of, the togetherness we share, and the care we have for each other as we continue to grow and leave our mark on the world.”
AUK Executive Vice President, Ms. Amal Al-Binali, was among the 20-year awardees. She reflected on this significant milestone and shared her profound sentiments, stating, “I am grateful for the past 20 years at AUK, where I found not just a workplace but a second home. Together, we overcame challenges, celebrated triumphs, and formed lifelong connections. My heartfelt thanks to the exceptional teams at AUK who supported me throughout the journey. Let us continue striving for greatness and building on our success.”
HR senior director, Paul Bassil, highlighted the theme of this year’s annual dinner and its significance, “It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to you, gathered here today for this occasion where we will delve into the concept of ‘we are a book.’ In the same way that books hold captivating stories that touch our hearts and engage our minds, we, too, possess narratives that define us as individuals and as a collective. Each one of us represents a page, eager to be opened, read, and shared. Our stories are distinct, filled with unique twists and turns, moments of joy and sorrow, and instances of triumph and defeat. However, by exchanging our stories with one another, we can discover common ground, foster empathy, and cultivate understanding. Through the sharing of these individual narratives, we collectively contribute to the tale of our institution, AUK.”
The Annual Dinner also offered attendees enjoyable entertainment, including musical performances, magic shows, and a raffle draw to conclude the festivities.
AUK’s strong culture of employee recognition is regularly expressed through events such as the annual dinner that highlight the contributions of faculty and staff.
Click on the Image to view the Photo Gallery
29, May 2023
AUK Art & Graphic Design Department Participates in TEDxKuwait City Exhibition
The Art & Graphic Design Department at AUK was invited by TEDxKuwait City to participate in their exhibition, "It's All About Perspective,” hosted at Al Hamra Tower. Dr. Fahad Dhawi, assistant professor of graphic design, accompanied the students enrolled in his Arab Design History course.
During the event, AUK students engaged with attendees, explaining their projects and discussing their artistic process in the interactive space. Their projects featured a diverse range of art and design projects, encompassing Arabic calligraphy, typography and lettering, sculpture, mixed media, painting, illustration, manuscript, textiles, poster design, product design, and furniture design.
Students were guided to derive inspiration and style from renowned Arabic graphic designers or artists featured in their course textbook, combining technical skills with creativity. Dr. Dhawi also participated in the event, designing a typography poster that celebrated Palestine, utilizing Burhan Karkoutly's distinctive art style.
The interactive space presented an opportunity for students to showcase their design skills, highlighting the power of creativity, collaboration, and artistic expression among the wider Kuwaiti society.
Students with their projects
During the event, AUK students engaged with attendees, explaining their projects and discussing their artistic process in the interactive space. Their projects featured a diverse range of art and design projects, encompassing Arabic calligraphy, typography and lettering, sculpture, mixed media, painting, illustration, manuscript, textiles, poster design, product design, and furniture design.
Students were guided to derive inspiration and style from renowned Arabic graphic designers or artists featured in their course textbook, combining technical skills with creativity. Dr. Dhawi also participated in the event, designing a typography poster that celebrated Palestine, utilizing Burhan Karkoutly's distinctive art style.
The interactive space presented an opportunity for students to showcase their design skills, highlighting the power of creativity, collaboration, and artistic expression among the wider Kuwaiti society.
Dr. Fahad Dhawi with students
General photos from the exhibition
General photos from the exhibition
Students with their projects
28, May 2023
AUK GDES Department and PCC Host Typography Event by John Paul Dowling
The Art & Graphic Design Department at AUK collaborated with the Promenade Culture Centre (PCC) to host a lecture and workshop by Mr. John Paul Dowling, an accomplished typographer and educator.
Starting at the PCC premises, the lecture, titled, "The Future of Typography: Decolonizing, De-Futuring & Artificial Intelligence,” Mr. Dowling addressed the role of AI in typography and its potential to revolutionize the way in which design is approached. He also raised important ethical questions about ownership of intellectual property of AI-generated typefaces and the need for cultural sensitivity and inclusivity.
Next were workshops conducted at the AUK campus, whereby students gained practical learning experiences with charcoal and paint, which were subsequently digitized post-scanning. This provided students with a hands-on experience that expanded their breadth of knowledge.
Chair of the Art and Graphic Design Department at AUK, Professor William Anderson, commented on the success of the event, “The incorporation of external speakers is of great significance for both our students and faculty members. The viewpoints expressed by the speakers always align closely with our own, but the subtle variations in perspective they bring forth are valuable and aid in broadening our collective understanding.”
The event concluded with a lively discussion with Mr. Dowling about the future of typography.
Starting at the PCC premises, the lecture, titled, "The Future of Typography: Decolonizing, De-Futuring & Artificial Intelligence,” Mr. Dowling addressed the role of AI in typography and its potential to revolutionize the way in which design is approached. He also raised important ethical questions about ownership of intellectual property of AI-generated typefaces and the need for cultural sensitivity and inclusivity.
Next were workshops conducted at the AUK campus, whereby students gained practical learning experiences with charcoal and paint, which were subsequently digitized post-scanning. This provided students with a hands-on experience that expanded their breadth of knowledge.
Chair of the Art and Graphic Design Department at AUK, Professor William Anderson, commented on the success of the event, “The incorporation of external speakers is of great significance for both our students and faculty members. The viewpoints expressed by the speakers always align closely with our own, but the subtle variations in perspective they bring forth are valuable and aid in broadening our collective understanding.”
The event concluded with a lively discussion with Mr. Dowling about the future of typography.
Mr. John Paul Dowling during his lecture
General photo of the audience
