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News

13, Jan 2025
CBE Students Celebrate Diversity with Culture Showcase
The Culture showcase is an awareness initiative where students from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) explore and profile a country through the lens of cultural theory, showcasing its unique traits, artifacts, cuisine, clothing, and other cultural elements. This activity forms an integral part of the International Business (BUS321) course curriculum, which emphasizes fostering a neutral understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures worldwide.

For the second time, this exercise was transformed into a showcase event open to the entire university community. Students independently selected 20 countries from across the world, with no assignments dictated by the instructor. Their impressive creativity and dedication were evident in the initiative they displayed, presenting a rich and engaging array of cultural items and perspectives.

Participating students explained their approaches to represent their chosen countries:
Palestine “Representing Palestine at the Cultural Day event was a very meaningful experience for our team. We used Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions and Hall’s Context theories to explore Palestinian heritage, as it guided us through how we presented ourselves at the booth. We focused on symbols and visuals that highlight its deep cultural roots, and to bring the culture to life at our booth, we wore traditional kaftans and kuffiyehs, served authentic Palestinian food, and displayed traditional ornaments, with music in the background to set the scene. Participating alongside booths from other countries, this experience showed us how cultural awareness can help us work better together in diverse environments.” Muneera AlJuwaied, Tala Khalil, Zahraa El Husseini

Lebanon “Thank you for your kind words and for recognizing our efforts in the first-level culture showcase. It was truly a rewarding experience for our team. Winning the first-level culture showcase was more than just a victory—it was a celebration of identity, passion, and unity. Representing Lebanon’s rich heritage was an incredible honor and a transformative experience. Through this journey, we didn’t just showcase Lebanon’s culture; we immersed ourselves in its essence, shared its stories, and wove its vibrant spirit into a narrative that resonated far and wide. This exercise taught us that culture transcends borders—it’s about connection, curiosity, and fostering mutual respect. We are proud to have been entrusted with the responsibility of telling Lebanon’s story and hope our efforts inspired others to embrace the beauty of diversity and cultural exchange.” Silvia , Yara , Jenin

Mexico "For many of us it was a surprise that Mexico has high context and so many intricate characteristics that vary from state to state and even through time itself! This is why we chose to present the Hofstede through the lens of Frida Kahlo, a famous Mexican personality who stood out as a renowned artist that challenged  the power distance and masculinity aspects in Mexico through her art and creatively incorporated elements of the day of the dead which reflects the culture’s way of dealing with uncertainty avoidance. Overall, it was a fun and enriching experience for all of us as a team." Jinan Said Salim Al-Harrasi, Mariam Y R D Saif, Shahad Y Y M A Alshamali, and Melora Noronha  
 
  
 

CBE students representing the Palestine display
   

CBE students representing the Mexico display
  

CBE students representing the Egypt display
  

CBE students representing the USA display
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CBE Students Celebrate Diversity with Culture Showcase
13, Jan 2025
AUK Students Drive Innovation for a Sustainable Future
Students from the College of Business and Economics at AUK recently took part in EY Ripples, a global initiative aimed at addressing climate change. This event provided a platform for students to collaborate in teams, brainstorming innovative solutions tailored to local needs. Their efforts were aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Kuwait Vision 2035, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the region.

Mubarak AlAli, an accounting major student, shared his enthusiasm about the experience, "It was an incredible experience to be part of such a forward-thinking initiative. We had the opportunity to apply our university knowledge to real-world challenges and collaborate with like-minded peers. It was truly inspiring to see the creativity and passion of our team as we worked towards a more sustainable future."

 
This event not only highlighted the students' commitment to a greener future but also underscored the practical application of their academic knowledge. The participation of AUK students in EY Ripples is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and innovation. It showcases their potential to drive positive change and highlights the importance of integrating sustainability into education. As these students continue to develop their skills and knowledge, they are well-positioned to become the next generation of leaders committed to creating a sustainable future.

This initiative not only benefits the students but also serves as an inspiration to the wider community, demonstrating the power of education and collaboration in addressing global challenges. The creativity and passion displayed by the AUK students are a promising sign of the positive impact they will have on the world.
 
 
 
General photos of the event
  

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AUK Students Drive Innovation for a Sustainable Future
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22, Dec 2024
KIPCO University Championship Concludes a Thrilling Fall Semester for the 2024/2025 Season
The KIPCO University Championship, proudly sponsored by the Kuwait Olympic Committee and Kuwait Projects Company (Holding) - KIPCO, came to a triumphant conclusion after an exciting fall semester filled with intense competition. The highly anticipated event brought together over 200 student-athletes from four prestigious universities—the American University of Kuwait (AUK), the Australian University (AU), Box Hill College, and the International University of Kuwait (IUK)—to compete in women’s volleyball, men’s volleyball, and women’s soccer. Jaber Thamer Al-Sabah, representing the Kuwait Olympic Committee, said, “The Kuwait Olympic Committee is immensely proud to sponsor the KIPCO University Championship, one of the most significant initiatives aimed at enhancing university sports in Kuwait and developing young talents in a competitive and distinguished environment. This sponsorship stems from the Committee’s national commitment to supporting sports at all levels and encouraging young athletic talents, believing in the importance of investing in youth potential to achieve a bright sporting future for Kuwait.” Also commenting on the significance of this championship, Abdullah Al-Khudari, KIPCO Assistant Manager of Corporate Communications & IR, remarked, “KIPCO is committed to supporting youth through various initiatives and activities. We are pleased to sponsor the KIPCO University Championship and to contribute to the development of competitive sports at the university level in Kuwait, stemming from our firm belief in the importance of sports and its significant role in benefiting students and society as a whole. We would also like to extend our gratitude to all participating universities, particularly the American University of Kuwait, for their excellent organization of the fall semester competitions of this season.”

The championship showcased inspiring performances, with the Australian University taking home top honors in both men’s volleyball and women’s soccer, while Box Hill College emerged victorious in women’s volleyball. The American University of Kuwait delivered strong and consistent results, earning second place across all tournaments, reinforcing its reputation for sporting excellence. Each match was marked by high-level competition, teamwork, and unforgettable moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Dr. Abdurrahman Al Farhan, Vice President of Student Affairs at the American University of Kuwait, stated, “This championship has provided an outstanding platform for our students to demonstrate their talent, resilience, and sportsmanship. The American University of Kuwait is proud to be part of an event that fosters excellence and builds lasting connections among universities.”

The KIPCO University Championship has cemented its status as a cornerstone event for collegiate athletics in Kuwait. Beyond the trophies and accolades, the championship has built bridges between universities, showcased the country’s wealth of young talent, and demonstrated the immense potential of sports as a unifying force. Hussain Al-Hadad, Director of Student Life at the Australian University, expressed, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the American University of Kuwait for their exceptional organization of the KIPCO University Championship. This tournament has played a pivotal role in fostering a spirit of sportsmanship among students and has highlighted the value of sports in developing essential life skills. We also deeply appreciate the sponsors for their unwavering support.”

The legacy of the 2024 KIPCO University Championship stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of Kuwait’s youth.
 
 
 
General photos of the tournament and closing ceremony
  
  

KIPCO University Championship Concludes a Thrilling Fall Semester for the 2024/2025 Season
19, Dec 2024
AUK Delegation Excels at Prestigious International MUN Event
AUK's Model United Nations (AUKMUN) delegation proudly represented the university at the prestigious Georgetown Qatar MUN Conference.

The conference, hosted by Georgetown University in Qatar, brought together student delegations from across the globe to engage in debates and propose solutions to pressing global issues. AUKMUN showcased exceptional diplomacy, teamwork, and intellectual rigor throughout the event.
 
A special highlight of the conference was student Mona AlAsousi receiving an Honorable Mention in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for her exemplary performance and articulate representation of Bangladesh.
 
The participation in Georgetown Qatar MUN is part of AUK’s ongoing commitment to fostering leadership, critical thinking, and global citizenship among its students. The University commends the entire delegation for their outstanding performance on this international platform.
 
The delegation included:
  
Aysha AlAsousi representing Australia in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
  
Noor Alzubaidi representing Yemen in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
  
Aya Elhardello representing United States of America in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  
Batoul Albou Sabih representing Bolivia in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  
Mona AlAsousi representing Bangladesh in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  
Carolina Aboul Hosn representing Iran in the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
  
Mariam Abusharkh representing United States of America in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
  
Ahmad Kanaan representing Argentina in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
  
  
  

Group photo of the AUK delegation
AUK Delegation Excels at Prestigious International MUN Event
19, Dec 2024
AUK Library Engages in 'Library 3.0' Forum
AUK library participated in the 'Library 3.0' forum, an event organized by the Kuwait Library and Information Association and hosted at the National Library of Kuwait. Under the patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, this cultural training forum and exhibition brought together representatives from both the public and private sectors to explore the evolving role of libraries in a rapidly changing information landscape.

Over three days, experts and specialists discussed the challenges and opportunities facing the fields of information management, including libraries, archives, publishing houses, and research organizations. Through workshops and panel discussions, the forum addressed a wide range of topics, such as technological transformations, strategies for creating more engaging programs, and fostering inclusivity within libraries.

One highlight of the event was a session led by Ms. Asma Al Kanan, Director of the Library at AUK. In her presentation, she showcased innovative ways libraries worldwide are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological tools to enhance their services. Ms. Al Kanan also addressed critical concerns surrounding privacy, ethics, intellectual property, and access costs, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with responsibility. Her recommendations for building library capacities and infrastructure provided a roadmap for ensuring that users can effectively and sensibly leverage these tools.

The forum underscored the importance of libraries transforming into dynamic, collaborative partners within their communities. By evolving into vibrant centers of knowledge and inspiration, libraries can better support their patrons' intellectual and creative growth, solidifying their role as essential spaces for learning and engagement.

The AUK library’s participation in the 'Library 3.0' forum reflects its commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and fostering dialogue on the future of libraries in the digital age. 
  
   
  

AUK library's booth at the forum
  

AUK Library director, Ms. Asma AlKanan being awarded as a speaker at the forum
AUK Library Engages in 'Library 3.0' Forum
19, Dec 2024
AUK Library Hosts Engaging Book Talk with Sigma Tau Delta
As part of its ongoing mission to foster a culture of reading and intellectual engagement within the campus community, the AUK Library recently collaborated with the international English honor society, Sigma Tau Delta, to host an insightful book talk. The event focused on the acclaimed novel Salt Houses by Arab-American author Hala Alyan. The discussion explored the novel’s poignant portrayal of Palestinian displacement across five decades, following one family’s journey through trauma, memory, and storytelling. 

Facilitated by the AUK Library, the panel delved deeply into the narrative’s themes of exile, belonging, and identity, offering attendees a thought-provoking analysis of the text. Student speakers Awatef Al Sendi and Bader Al Boloushi led the conversation, sharing their unique perspectives on the novel. They analyzed key scenes and passages, shedding light on how the story’s multigenerational lens enriched its exploration of displacement and resilience. Their reflections prompted engaging discussions, encouraging the audience to examine how literature can illuminate complex social and historical realities.

The event was attended by students and faculty from various disciplines, who participated in an open forum following the panel. Attendees shared their interpretations of Salt Houses and drew connections to broader themes in modern Palestinian and Arab literature. The dialogue highlighted the enduring power of storytelling in shaping collective understanding and empathy.

In closing, the AUK Library extended an invitation for participants to explore its extensive collection of books, including titles that inspire critical thinking and cultural awareness. This event underscored the Library’s commitment to creating dynamic spaces for intellectual exchange and fostering a lifelong love for reading among the AUK community.
 
 
General photos of the event
  

AUK Library Hosts Engaging Book Talk with Sigma Tau Delta
19, Dec 2024
AUK Team Participates in the 7th International ESI Conference in Qatar
A team of exceptional students from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) at AUK recently participated in the 7th International Conference on Entrepreneurship for Sustainability & Impact (ESI). The conference, titled "Redefining Business in the Era of AI Revolution," was hosted by Qatar University and brought together academics, scholars, and practitioners from across the globe to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the business world.

AUK's participation was led by Dr. Ahmad Al Saber, assistant professor in the College of Business, and Eng. Afsah Abdullah, representing AUK's Office of Research and Grants. Their presentations and involvement emphasized AUK’s dedication to research and innovation in AI and its impact on academia and industry. The inclusion of both faculty and students in such a global forum underscores the University’s commitment to addressing emerging trends and fostering intellectual exchange.

The students embarked on this journey after months of rigorous research and preparation, eager to share their insights and network with field experts. They also attended multiple sessions and panel discussions, further enriching their academic and professional understanding.

Remarkably, the AUK students were among the few undergraduate participants at the conference, earning high praise for their ability to articulate complex ideas and engage audiences effectively. Their performance highlighted both their individual dedication to research and AUK’s overarching commitment to academic excellence.

The team presented six research papers that aligned seamlessly with the conference’s focus on AI and its transformative role in business and education:
  1. Assessing the Influence of Digital Soft Skills, Business Intelligence, and Data Literacy on Digital Entrepreneurship in the Government Sector.
  2. Factors Influencing Behavioral Intention to Adopt Artificial Intelligence: The Role of Managerial Innovativeness.
  3. Exploring the Effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Adoption in Higher Education using UTAUT: The Role of Digital Literacy and Digital Citizenship Behavior.
  4. Understanding Impulsive Buying Behavior Among Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) Users.
  5. Enhancing Learning Effectiveness in STEM Education Through Gamification.
  6. The Impact of AI Adoption on SME’s Performance through Technological, Organizational, and Environmental Factors.
Each paper showcased advanced statistical techniques, including Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), and highlighted the application of these methods to real-world challenges. The presentations demonstrated how abstract data could be transformed to uncover meaningful trends and relationships, offering solutions for critical issues in business and education.
   
  
   

From Left- Eng. Afsah Abdullah, Tala Khalil, Taleen Ali, Zahraa El Husseini, Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, Faisal Al-Sewrej, Dr. Faisal Al-Rushaid, Dr. Ali Al-Jamal attending their   conference presentation day at Hilton Hotel, Doha
   

From Left- Hadi Merhi, Faisal Al-Sewrej, Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, Eng. Afsah Abdullah, Tala Khalil, Taleen Ali, Zahraa El Husseini attending a conference session at Qatar University in Doha
  

From Left- Zahraa El Husseini, Taleen Ali, Tala Khalil concluding their presentation on “Factors Influencing Behavioral Intention to Adopt Artificial Intelligence: The Role of Managerial Innovativeness.”
  

Eng. Afsah Abdullah and Zahraa El Husseini presenting their topic: “Exploring the Effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Adoption in Higher Education using UTAUT: The Role of Digital Literacy and Digital Citizenship Behavior.”
  

Faisal Al-Sewrej and Hadi Merhi presenting their paper titled “Understanding Impulsive Buying Behavior Among Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) Users
  

Dr. Ahmad Alsaber presenting his paper on “Assessing the Influence of Digital Soft Skills, Business Intelligence, and Data Literacy on Digital Entrepreneurship in the Government Sector.”
  

Dr. Ali Al-Jamal presenting his topic “Conceptualizing Teacher Acceptance of AI in Higher Education.”
AUK Team Participates in the 7th International ESI Conference in Qatar
17, Dec 2024
AUK Becomes First University in Kuwait to Collaborates with OpenAI ChatGPT Edu

AUK is forging a groundbreaking collaboration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT Edu, making AUK the first university in Kuwait to integrate this advanced AI technology into its academic ecosystem. This collaboration is set to enhance the learning experience by providing faculty and students with new tools for interactive, engaging, and innovative education.

AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, commented on this unprecedented milestone, “This collaboration represents a strategic leap forward in integrating artificial intelligence into higher education. With the adoption of ChatGPT Edu, we are opening new avenues for academic innovation, empowering our educators to enhance student engagement and knowledge application using AI-driven insights. At AUK, our mission is to create a dynamic learning environment that anticipates and adapts to the changing landscape of education. With the integration of ChatGPT Edu, we are not only enhancing the quality of education we provide but also preparing our students to thrive in a world where AI plays an increasingly prominent role.”

Leah Belsky, OpenAI’s general manager for education also remarked on AUK’s pioneering collaboration, “We believe AI has the ability to enhance education—making learning more personalized, freeing up teachers from admin tasks so they can spend more time with students, and helping academics make significant research breakthroughs. We're delighted the American University in Kuwait is the first in Kuwait to roll out ChatGPT Edu so all faculty and students can benefit from this transformative technology. We look forward to shaping the future of AI education together.”

As part of this collaboration, AUK has appointed the acting director of the Office of Research and Grants (ORG), Dr. Ahmad Al-Saber, as program lead to oversee the integration of ChatGPT Edu and evaluate its impact on academic outcomes. This role will be pivotal in guiding the implementation and training process to ensure that faculty and students understand and leverage the technology effectively.

Dr. Al-Saber described the initiative as transformative in educational interaction, “This is not just a technical agreement; it is a vision for a more interactive and innovative educational future, where AI becomes an integral part of our academic experience. ChatGPT Edu’s potential to transform classrooms into environments that inspire creativity and promote deep understanding is what makes this partnership so valuable for AUK.”

A structured approach to implementation will be followed, including a pilot phase that allows AUK to assess the effectiveness of ChatGPT Edu across different academic disciplines. Faculty will receive dedicated training to maximize the benefits of this technology, enabling them to use ChatGPT Edu as a dynamic tool that complements their teaching.

Following the pilot, AUK will document findings in a comprehensive case study that will serve as a benchmark for measuring the technology’s impact and success across various learning contexts. This data will be valuable for future research and contribute to global discussions on the role of AI in higher education.

This collaboration demonstrates AUK’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions that enrich the educational experience and foster a forward-thinking academic community, empowering both students and faculty to engage with cutting-edge technology that prepares them for the challenges of the future. 
   
  
   
AUK Becomes First University in Kuwait to Collaborates with OpenAI ChatGPT Edu
28, Nov 2024
Advancing Awareness: AUK Champions ADHD Advocacy with KALD
AUK Data Club recently collaborated with the Kuwait Association for Learning Differences (KALD) to support Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) awareness through a community-focused event. This impactful collaboration emphasized the importance of understanding ADHD and showcased strong participation from AUK students.

Representing the AUK Office of Research and Grants (ORG) were Dr. Ahmad AlSaber, acting director, and Eng. Afsah Abdullah, research assistant. Their presence underscored AUK’s commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting awareness of critical health issues.

The AUK Data Club played a pivotal role in the event, aligning its efforts with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being. Through active volunteering, the students contributed to raising awareness about ADHD, encouraging dialogue, and fostering a deeper understanding of mental health challenges within the community.

The club also spearheaded a feedback survey to gauge attendees' knowledge of ADHD and the effectiveness of the event’s messaging. The collected data will be analyzed and shared with KALD to enhance the impact of future awareness campaigns, ensuring accurate and relevant information reaches the public.

For AUK students, the event offered more than just a volunteering opportunity—it was an enriching learning experience. Engaging directly with the community allowed them to connect with individuals impacted by ADHD, gaining insight into the condition's effects on families and society. Conducting surveys also provided students with a real-world application of their data analytics skills.

This collaboration exemplifies AUK’s dedication to community service, sustainable development, and student growth. By empowering students to apply their academic expertise to meaningful causes, AUK continues to lead as an institution that nurtures both professional development and social impact.
  
  
  

AUK Data club members & KALD team
  

Dr. Ahmad al Saber and Mrs. Amal Al Sayer
  

Data Club members
  

Data Club member Taleen
  

Data club members Badreldin Taher & Hussain Muthafar
   

KALD Booth
   

Data club members & KALD hosts
Advancing Awareness: AUK Champions ADHD Advocacy with KALD
28, Nov 2024
AUK Leads the Way in Bridging Accessibility Gaps in Kuwaiti Higher Education
AUK hosted the launch of the initiative Bridging Accessibility Gaps: Enhancing Online Presence for Kuwaiti Universities and Colleges. This pivotal event united academic leaders, IT professionals, and accessibility advocates to tackle the pressing need for inclusive digital platforms in Kuwaiti higher education. 

In her opening remarks, AUK President, Dr. Rawda Awwad highlighted the critical role of accessibility in education, stating, “Providing access to digital platforms for all students, including those with disabilities, is not just a technical upgrade but a societal responsibility.” 

Keynote speakers Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, project lead; and Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, accessibility expert, outlined the initiative's ambitious goals of assessing and enhancing the accessibility of university websites in line with international standards. They emphasized the importance of institutional collaboration in closing the accessibility gap. 

Discussions took place with Ms. Dunia Hassoun and Mr. Hussain Alfailakawy from the Australian University; Dr. Ismaeel AlRadhawi, Dr. Zeid Bouide, and Ms. Raghad Al-Khatib from Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST); and Ms. Heba Al Dalou and Mr. Saleem Aboobacker from AUK. Together, they addressed challenges, shared best practices, and underscored the value of partnerships between universities, NGOs, and IT teams. 

A highlight of the event was an inspiring talk by Mr. Ahmad Bahar, a visually impaired professional and renowned radio host with Kuwait's Ministry of Information. Drawing from personal experiences, he shed light on the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities when navigating online platforms. His insights reinforced the urgency of creating accessible digital environments. 

The Bridging Accessibility Gaps initiative, spearheaded by AUK and its partners, marks a significant stride toward digital inclusivity in Kuwaiti higher education. AUK reaffirms its dedication to fostering an accessible and equitable educational environment for all. 
   
    
   

Dr. Rawda Awwad
  

Dr. Belal Gharaibeh  
 
   
  
Audience members during the event
  
    

AUK Leads the Way in Bridging Accessibility Gaps in Kuwaiti Higher Education
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