News
24, May 2023
AUK's Department of Music and Drama Presents Spring Concert
AUK Department of Music and Drama presented their highly anticipated Spring Concert at the AUK theater. The program of the concert featured solo performances, duets, trios, and ensembles consisting of highly talented performers, including music faculty members Agnieszka Fajga, Kinga Masternak, and Elena Tsenkova, as well as AUK alumnus Yousef AlTemimi. A group of AUK students also showcased their skills, namely Lynn Pais, Wateen Alnaqah, Moudhi Alrubaiaan, Mona Kablan, Manar AlHaddad, Farida Mohamed, Mariam AlQatami, Tariq AlYousef, Awadis Atanalian, Saleh Jamshir, Abdullah Kheraibit, Mahmoud Shihadeh, and Mustafa ElGarawany.
The performances ranged from classical and folk music to movie soundtracks and pop songs. Instrumentalists played the violin, cello, marimba, bells, and various percussion instruments.
The performances ranged from classical and folk music to movie soundtracks and pop songs. Instrumentalists played the violin, cello, marimba, bells, and various percussion instruments.
General photos from the concert
24, May 2023
Dr. Juliet Dinkha Co-Authors Book with Alumna Nourah Al Enezi and Natasha Sharma
AUK research affiliate and licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Juliet Dinkha co-authored a book with AUK alumna and child-life specialist, Nourah Al Enezi; and psychotherapist and mental health counselor, Natasha Sharma. The book is titled, “Parents, Children, Teens, and Psychological Viewpoints on Parenting Practices in Kuwait and Greece.”
The book synopsis reads as follows, “Stories make up our lives, from birth till the end, they help us make sense of ourselves, others, and experiences in the world. Throughout this book, the authors explore one of the most vital of stories, childhood and child-rearing with individuals from Greece and the Middle East. Each story shares a unique and subjective insight into the realm of parenting. What is parenting and how does it differ? The authors examine the unique cultural norms, generational disparities, childhood experiences, and trauma that play a role in parenting. They offer a depth of insight into childhood needs and include tales from families sharing their perspectives. The authors invite readers to join them on an explorative journey to the East, where narratives meet scientific literature providing a close view into different homes and worlds.”
The publication of this book is a testament for such a collaboration that speaks to the high level of intellectual engagement that AUK fosters through its academic setting.
The book synopsis reads as follows, “Stories make up our lives, from birth till the end, they help us make sense of ourselves, others, and experiences in the world. Throughout this book, the authors explore one of the most vital of stories, childhood and child-rearing with individuals from Greece and the Middle East. Each story shares a unique and subjective insight into the realm of parenting. What is parenting and how does it differ? The authors examine the unique cultural norms, generational disparities, childhood experiences, and trauma that play a role in parenting. They offer a depth of insight into childhood needs and include tales from families sharing their perspectives. The authors invite readers to join them on an explorative journey to the East, where narratives meet scientific literature providing a close view into different homes and worlds.”
The publication of this book is a testament for such a collaboration that speaks to the high level of intellectual engagement that AUK fosters through its academic setting.
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23, May 2023
AUK CBE Hosts Entrepreneur in Residence Series
The College of Business and Economics (CBE) at AUK hosted another successful installment of its Entrepreneur in Residence Series, initiated in 2017 by Dr. Salime Smadi, associate professor of organizational behavior. Mr. Abdulla Al-Muzaini, an AUK alumnus was invited as a guest speaker.
Mr. Al-Muzaini presented a lecture titled “Passing on the Flame” to freshmen and sophomore students. With over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage (F&B) and cyber security industries, Mr. Al-Muzaini is a Kuwaiti entrepreneur with a proven track record in finding and establishing small and medium-sized enterprises (SME’s).
He also shared a personal account of the early influences in his life that led him to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and his experiences as an entrepreneur in different industries in Kuwait. Finances, expertise and connections are key components that were emphasized by Mr. Al-Muzaini for beginning a successful business. He emphasized the significance of networking and business partnerships.
Mr. Al-Muzaini encouraged students to support each other as future AUK alumni in the Kuwaiti job market and to make the most of the liberal arts subjects offered at AUK.
The lecture ended with a Q&A session with the students.
Mr. Al-Muzaini presented a lecture titled “Passing on the Flame” to freshmen and sophomore students. With over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage (F&B) and cyber security industries, Mr. Al-Muzaini is a Kuwaiti entrepreneur with a proven track record in finding and establishing small and medium-sized enterprises (SME’s).
He also shared a personal account of the early influences in his life that led him to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and his experiences as an entrepreneur in different industries in Kuwait. Finances, expertise and connections are key components that were emphasized by Mr. Al-Muzaini for beginning a successful business. He emphasized the significance of networking and business partnerships.
Mr. Al-Muzaini encouraged students to support each other as future AUK alumni in the Kuwaiti job market and to make the most of the liberal arts subjects offered at AUK.
The lecture ended with a Q&A session with the students.
Mr. Abdulla Al-Muzaini
Mr. Abdulla Al-Muzaini and Dr. Salime Smadi
23, May 2023
AUK's Department of Music and Drama Hosts Out at Sea
AUK Department of Music and Drama hosted Out at Sea, a one-act play written by Polish playwright Slawomir Mrozek. Sponsored by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kuwait, the production took place in the AUK Black Box Theater.
Out at Sea is a play which explores the themes of politics, power, manipulation, and sacrifice through humor.
Directed by May Touma Khalaf, the cast of Out at Sea featured Pascale Harfouche Chedid, AUK First-Year Experience (FYE) adjunct instructor; and AUK alumni, Hassan Hajiyah, and Abdulwahab AlQarooni. The play also included actress Judit Dirda, and light designer and operator, Hashem Kheitan.
The play was presented in English and translated by Nicholas Bethel. Slawomir Mrozek, who passed away in 2013, was a prominent figure in Polish literature, using humor and irony to criticize regimes without providing explicit details or locations, allowing the audience to draw their own interpretations.
Out at Sea is a play which explores the themes of politics, power, manipulation, and sacrifice through humor.
Directed by May Touma Khalaf, the cast of Out at Sea featured Pascale Harfouche Chedid, AUK First-Year Experience (FYE) adjunct instructor; and AUK alumni, Hassan Hajiyah, and Abdulwahab AlQarooni. The play also included actress Judit Dirda, and light designer and operator, Hashem Kheitan.
The play was presented in English and translated by Nicholas Bethel. Slawomir Mrozek, who passed away in 2013, was a prominent figure in Polish literature, using humor and irony to criticize regimes without providing explicit details or locations, allowing the audience to draw their own interpretations.
General photos from the play
22, May 2023
AUK Professor Dr. Ghulam Hussain Completes KFAS-Funded Research Project
AUK associate professor of electrical engineering and assistant dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Dr. Ghulam Hussain, successfully completed his KFAS-funded research project with exceptional outcomes.
Dr. Ghulam received the research grant as a Principal Investigator (PI) in March 2019 and recently completed his project, titled “Smart Condition Monitoring and Self-Healing Networks for Power Grid (Project # PR18-18EO-01).”
Despite facing challenges during the pandemic, Dr. Ghulam and his co-investigators successfully accomplished the project goals. They published a total of 11 scientific articles in high-quality journals, including 8 Q1 publications (3 IEEE Transactions, 3 IEEE Access, and 2 Elsevier), as well as 5 papers in top-level conferences, the quantity and quality of the publications highlighting this exceptional accomplishment.
The research work aimed to develop an integrated online monitoring system for power system equipment used in power plants and electrical grids. Several non-intrusive sensors were developed and implemented, and algorithms were developed to detect several electrical faults occurring in power equipment and their assessment in terms of severity and risk. The introduced concept of automated monitoring of incipient faults enables maximizing the in-service life of the components and reducing power outages, which is highly beneficial for power and utility companies globally and for Kuwait in particular.
The project was completed through a collaboration with researchers from the USA, Finland, and Pakistan, and practical tests were performed in laboratories and on-site environments. The exceptional outcomes achieved by Dr. Ghulam through his research project have not only contributed significantly to the advancement of the field of engineering, but also to the betterment of the global community at large.
Dr. Ghulam received the research grant as a Principal Investigator (PI) in March 2019 and recently completed his project, titled “Smart Condition Monitoring and Self-Healing Networks for Power Grid (Project # PR18-18EO-01).”
Despite facing challenges during the pandemic, Dr. Ghulam and his co-investigators successfully accomplished the project goals. They published a total of 11 scientific articles in high-quality journals, including 8 Q1 publications (3 IEEE Transactions, 3 IEEE Access, and 2 Elsevier), as well as 5 papers in top-level conferences, the quantity and quality of the publications highlighting this exceptional accomplishment.
The research work aimed to develop an integrated online monitoring system for power system equipment used in power plants and electrical grids. Several non-intrusive sensors were developed and implemented, and algorithms were developed to detect several electrical faults occurring in power equipment and their assessment in terms of severity and risk. The introduced concept of automated monitoring of incipient faults enables maximizing the in-service life of the components and reducing power outages, which is highly beneficial for power and utility companies globally and for Kuwait in particular.
The project was completed through a collaboration with researchers from the USA, Finland, and Pakistan, and practical tests were performed in laboratories and on-site environments. The exceptional outcomes achieved by Dr. Ghulam through his research project have not only contributed significantly to the advancement of the field of engineering, but also to the betterment of the global community at large.
Dr. Ghulam Hussain
18, May 2023
AUK Secures Rankings in Datathon Competition
AUK students and staff participated in the Datathon competition organized by Gulf Bank, Coded, and Injaz Kuwait. Participants had the opportunity to explore and analyze large data sets, develop innovative data models, and present compelling visualizations to communicate their findings.
Students Abdulrahman AlKhaldi, Yousef Damerji, Fady Mahmoud, and Maya Raed Abdin from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) secured 4th place in the Visualization track. They exhibited outstanding skills in transforming complex data into intuitive, accessible visual representations.
Eng. Afsah Abdullah from the Office of Research and Grants (ORG) secured 5th place amidst 38 teams in the modeling track, showcasing her abilities in predictive modeling and statistical analysis.
AUK assistant professor of management and assistant director of ORG, Dr. Ahmad Al-Saber, commented on the success of the event as the teams’ supervisor, “We are immensely proud of our students' and staff achievements and look forward to their future endeavors. We extend our sincere thanks to Gulf Bank, Coded and Injaz Kuwait for organizing the Datathon competition, providing an excellent platform for students to hone their skills and gain invaluable experiences.”
The Fancy DataVis Prize was awarded to Abdulrahman AlKhaldi, Yousef Damerji, Fady Mahmoud, and Maya Raed Abdin for creating the most visually impressive, innovative, and effective representation of data. They outperformed competitors from various global institutions, showcasing a compelling blend of creativity, technical skills, and a deep understanding of data visualization principles.
This accomplishment serves as a testament to AUK's dedication to fostering talent in the area of data science and analytics.
Students Abdulrahman AlKhaldi, Yousef Damerji, Fady Mahmoud, and Maya Raed Abdin from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) secured 4th place in the Visualization track. They exhibited outstanding skills in transforming complex data into intuitive, accessible visual representations.
Eng. Afsah Abdullah from the Office of Research and Grants (ORG) secured 5th place amidst 38 teams in the modeling track, showcasing her abilities in predictive modeling and statistical analysis.
AUK assistant professor of management and assistant director of ORG, Dr. Ahmad Al-Saber, commented on the success of the event as the teams’ supervisor, “We are immensely proud of our students' and staff achievements and look forward to their future endeavors. We extend our sincere thanks to Gulf Bank, Coded and Injaz Kuwait for organizing the Datathon competition, providing an excellent platform for students to hone their skills and gain invaluable experiences.”
The Fancy DataVis Prize was awarded to Abdulrahman AlKhaldi, Yousef Damerji, Fady Mahmoud, and Maya Raed Abdin for creating the most visually impressive, innovative, and effective representation of data. They outperformed competitors from various global institutions, showcasing a compelling blend of creativity, technical skills, and a deep understanding of data visualization principles.
This accomplishment serves as a testament to AUK's dedication to fostering talent in the area of data science and analytics.
Group photo of particpants with Dr. Ahmad Al-Saber
Group photo of particpants during competition
17, May 2023
AUK CTE Hosts Webinar with Dr. Zaid Aladwan
The Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) at AUK hosted two virtual workshops titled "Ethics, Integrity, and Anti-Corruption" with Dr. Zaid Aladwan.
Dr. Zaid Aladwan, an experienced banking solicitor, qualified arbitrator in the LCIA, and assistant professor in international commercial law, delivered a thought-provoking workshop on ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption.
During the workshops, Dr. Aladwan defined key concepts and explored the importance of creating and maintaining a culture of ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption in academic environments. Participants had the opportunity to analyze case studies that demonstrated ethical dilemmas and discussed potential consequences. The workshops also provided an opportunity for collaboration with colleagues to develop strategies for promoting ethics and integrity within their respective departments and the university as a whole.
CTE is committed to promoting ethical standards and integrity among faculty and staff, hosting workshops as such to fulfill this commitment.
The Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) at AUK hosted two virtual workshops titled "Ethics, Integrity, and Anti-Corruption" with Dr. Zaid Aladwan.
Dr. Zaid Aladwan, an experienced banking solicitor, qualified arbitrator in the LCIA, and assistant professor in international commercial law, delivered a thought-provoking workshop on ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption.
During the workshops, Dr. Aladwan defined key concepts and explored the importance of creating and maintaining a culture of ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption in academic environments. Participants had the opportunity to analyze case studies that demonstrated ethical dilemmas and discussed potential consequences. The workshops also provided an opportunity for collaboration with colleagues to develop strategies for promoting ethics and integrity within their respective departments and the university as a whole.
CTE is committed to promoting ethical standards and integrity among faculty and staff, hosting workshops as such to fulfill this commitment.
Dr. Zaid Aladwan, an experienced banking solicitor, qualified arbitrator in the LCIA, and assistant professor in international commercial law, delivered a thought-provoking workshop on ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption.
During the workshops, Dr. Aladwan defined key concepts and explored the importance of creating and maintaining a culture of ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption in academic environments. Participants had the opportunity to analyze case studies that demonstrated ethical dilemmas and discussed potential consequences. The workshops also provided an opportunity for collaboration with colleagues to develop strategies for promoting ethics and integrity within their respective departments and the university as a whole.
CTE is committed to promoting ethical standards and integrity among faculty and staff, hosting workshops as such to fulfill this commitment.
The Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) at AUK hosted two virtual workshops titled "Ethics, Integrity, and Anti-Corruption" with Dr. Zaid Aladwan.
Dr. Zaid Aladwan, an experienced banking solicitor, qualified arbitrator in the LCIA, and assistant professor in international commercial law, delivered a thought-provoking workshop on ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption.
During the workshops, Dr. Aladwan defined key concepts and explored the importance of creating and maintaining a culture of ethics, integrity, and anti-corruption in academic environments. Participants had the opportunity to analyze case studies that demonstrated ethical dilemmas and discussed potential consequences. The workshops also provided an opportunity for collaboration with colleagues to develop strategies for promoting ethics and integrity within their respective departments and the university as a whole.
CTE is committed to promoting ethical standards and integrity among faculty and staff, hosting workshops as such to fulfill this commitment.
Screenshots from the Webinar
17, May 2023
AUK Media & Communications Department Hosts Media Exhibition
AUK Department of Communication and Media at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) hosted the Annual Media Exhibition. Held at the campus auditorium and organized by associate professor of communication and media, Dr. Mohammed Akbar, the event highlighted prominent guest speakers from diverse communication fields, providing attendees with a comprehensive and well-rounded understanding of the industry.
The first speaker, Abdulaziz Taleb, co-director of KTV, delivered a powerful message about the importance of timeliness in the media industry. He shared various shots taken from his recent shoots and examples of his university work to demonstrate his progression in the field.
The second speaker was alumnus Jassim AlHarban who graduated from AUK in 2011 with a degree in business management, captivated the audience by showcasing his work as a director, which ranged from his early YouTube series to his most recent project—directing a music video with international artists for the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Sadeq Taqi also took the stage and shared his compelling journey, which included the time he spent in the USA and his return to Kuwait in 2016. Since then, Taqi has been creating exceptional work in the media industry as a cinematographer.
The event also provided COMM students with the opportunity to showcase their talents. Among the works on display were projects from the Documentary Production class (COMM 313) and Media Translation (COMM 380), which exhibited the diverse skills and creativity of AUK students.
The first speaker, Abdulaziz Taleb, co-director of KTV, delivered a powerful message about the importance of timeliness in the media industry. He shared various shots taken from his recent shoots and examples of his university work to demonstrate his progression in the field.
The second speaker was alumnus Jassim AlHarban who graduated from AUK in 2011 with a degree in business management, captivated the audience by showcasing his work as a director, which ranged from his early YouTube series to his most recent project—directing a music video with international artists for the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Sadeq Taqi also took the stage and shared his compelling journey, which included the time he spent in the USA and his return to Kuwait in 2016. Since then, Taqi has been creating exceptional work in the media industry as a cinematographer.
The event also provided COMM students with the opportunity to showcase their talents. Among the works on display were projects from the Documentary Production class (COMM 313) and Media Translation (COMM 380), which exhibited the diverse skills and creativity of AUK students.
General photos from the event
17, May 2023
AUK Signs Memorandum of Understanding with KISR
AUK signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Kuwait Institute of Scientific Research (KISR) to foster collaboration between researchers, facilitate the sharing of ideas and expertise, provide networking opportunities for career development, and develop training programs for students.
The MOU was signed by AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, and the Director General of KISR, Dr. Manea Al-Sudairawi; also attending the signing ceremony were KISR and AUK representatives.
Dr. Rawda Awwad expressed her enthusiasm towards bringing together both parties’ strengths and expertise to create new opportunities for learning and discovery, “The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the American University of Kuwait (AUK) and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) is a significant step towards fostering collaboration and promoting scientific research in Kuwait. This partnership will facilitate the exchange of expertise, resources, and knowledge between the two institutions, leading to the development of innovative solutions to the challenges facing Kuwait and the wider region. Through this MOU, AUK and KISR will be able to leverage each other's strengths and contribute towards the advancement of science, technology, and education in Kuwait.”
Also commenting on the occasion, the director of the Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK, Dr. Iyad Abu Doush said, “This MOU will open KISR's research resources and facilities to AUK's faculty and students, providing them with opportunities to access cutting-edge technology and expertise in various fields of science and engineering. It will also provide training and internship opportunities for AUK students and enable AUK faculty to secure funding for their research projects.”
Dr. Manea Al-Sudairawi highlighted the purpose of the MOU and its importance, “The objective of this agreement is to promote the exchange of experiences and develop joint projects that aim to provide advanced technical support, transferring scientific information between both parties. Additionally, it includes sharing facilities and equipment for collaborative research and encouraging participation in scientific seminars, forums, and workshops.”
Following the signing, a workshop entitled "KISR - Recent Research" was organized by ORG which featured presentations from Dr. Ahmed Al-Mulla, Dr. Husam Arman, and Eng. Noura Al Ghurair, showcasing significant advancements in research related to various fields such as energy, environment, techno-economics, and software development at KISR. Attendees from all colleges at AUK had the opportunity to gain insight into ongoing research projects at KISR.
The MOU was signed by AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, and the Director General of KISR, Dr. Manea Al-Sudairawi; also attending the signing ceremony were KISR and AUK representatives.
Dr. Rawda Awwad expressed her enthusiasm towards bringing together both parties’ strengths and expertise to create new opportunities for learning and discovery, “The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the American University of Kuwait (AUK) and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) is a significant step towards fostering collaboration and promoting scientific research in Kuwait. This partnership will facilitate the exchange of expertise, resources, and knowledge between the two institutions, leading to the development of innovative solutions to the challenges facing Kuwait and the wider region. Through this MOU, AUK and KISR will be able to leverage each other's strengths and contribute towards the advancement of science, technology, and education in Kuwait.”
Also commenting on the occasion, the director of the Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK, Dr. Iyad Abu Doush said, “This MOU will open KISR's research resources and facilities to AUK's faculty and students, providing them with opportunities to access cutting-edge technology and expertise in various fields of science and engineering. It will also provide training and internship opportunities for AUK students and enable AUK faculty to secure funding for their research projects.”
Dr. Manea Al-Sudairawi highlighted the purpose of the MOU and its importance, “The objective of this agreement is to promote the exchange of experiences and develop joint projects that aim to provide advanced technical support, transferring scientific information between both parties. Additionally, it includes sharing facilities and equipment for collaborative research and encouraging participation in scientific seminars, forums, and workshops.”
Following the signing, a workshop entitled "KISR - Recent Research" was organized by ORG which featured presentations from Dr. Ahmed Al-Mulla, Dr. Husam Arman, and Eng. Noura Al Ghurair, showcasing significant advancements in research related to various fields such as energy, environment, techno-economics, and software development at KISR. Attendees from all colleges at AUK had the opportunity to gain insight into ongoing research projects at KISR.
Dr. Rawda Awwad and Dr. Manea Al-Sudairawi signing the MOU
Group photo of AUK and KISR representatives
General photo of workshop
16, May 2023
AUK GDES Department Hosts Mehdi Saeedi
The Art & Graphic Design Department at AUK invited Mr. Mehdi Saeedi, an internationally acclaimed artist and designer, for a lecture and a three-day workshop. The lecture, titled “Changes and Challenges,” encompassed an in-depth overview of his career as a graphic designer.
Mr. Saeedi showcased his work and explained how his working style changed when he immigrated to the United States. He also shared examples of his students' work.
In the three-day workshop, students worked on their chosen words in Arabic using the ‘Thuluth’ font. They worked in analog and digital to create their designs in the form of a painting using letters.
Mr. Saeedi, based in Philadelphia and born and raised in Tehran, uses his experience in graphic design, Persian calligraphy, type, and typography to transform Farsi letters into different forms and shapes. His design vision is influenced by his focus on contemplating Eastern aesthetics, heritage, and tradition. His work has been exhibited in numerous well-known exhibitions worldwide.
The Art & Graphic Design Department is committed to fostering an environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and excellence in all aspects of graphic design.
Mr. Saeedi showcased his work and explained how his working style changed when he immigrated to the United States. He also shared examples of his students' work.
In the three-day workshop, students worked on their chosen words in Arabic using the ‘Thuluth’ font. They worked in analog and digital to create their designs in the form of a painting using letters.
Mr. Saeedi, based in Philadelphia and born and raised in Tehran, uses his experience in graphic design, Persian calligraphy, type, and typography to transform Farsi letters into different forms and shapes. His design vision is influenced by his focus on contemplating Eastern aesthetics, heritage, and tradition. His work has been exhibited in numerous well-known exhibitions worldwide.
The Art & Graphic Design Department is committed to fostering an environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and excellence in all aspects of graphic design.
General photos from the event
