News
04, Aug 2021
AUK Students Participate In International English Honor Society Conference
AUK students participated in the International English Honor Society—also knowns as Sigma Tau Delta—annual conference. Due to the pandemic, the conference was held virtually; the theme of Metamorphosis was discussed online in a roundtable format.
The roundtable for AUK included participants sharing personal accounts of the transformative process objects go through: a concept known as metamorphosis. Chloe Ramey, president of Sigma Tau Delta’s AUK chapter, discussed her liminal identity and her migration to Kuwait in her presentation titled, “Natural Pearls and My Constructed Identity”.
Another member of the honor society is recent graduate Stephen Sapp, who mapped out his metamorphosis into fatherhood and the way masculinity is constructed in “The Car: An Influenced Identity”. Alumnus Abdulaziz Redha explored the complex personal and societal relationship he and Kuwait have with American popular culture in “Start of an Age: Transitioning into a Global Kuwaiti”.
AUK chapter faculty advisor, Professor Angelica DeAngelis, reflected upon the honor society and the students who participated in the conference, “It is always an exhilarating moment when you get to see all the hard work you and your students have put in over the last four years come to fruition, when you see them transition from student to young scholar, confident and prepared to take the next step on their personal and academic journey. That is what I saw as the faculty advisor of Sigma Tau Delta during the AUK chapter’s roundtable presentations and discussion,” she states.
The presentation was well-received by the audience and concluded with a Q&A session whereby discussions on the topic and papers took place.
The roundtable for AUK included participants sharing personal accounts of the transformative process objects go through: a concept known as metamorphosis. Chloe Ramey, president of Sigma Tau Delta’s AUK chapter, discussed her liminal identity and her migration to Kuwait in her presentation titled, “Natural Pearls and My Constructed Identity”.
Another member of the honor society is recent graduate Stephen Sapp, who mapped out his metamorphosis into fatherhood and the way masculinity is constructed in “The Car: An Influenced Identity”. Alumnus Abdulaziz Redha explored the complex personal and societal relationship he and Kuwait have with American popular culture in “Start of an Age: Transitioning into a Global Kuwaiti”.
AUK chapter faculty advisor, Professor Angelica DeAngelis, reflected upon the honor society and the students who participated in the conference, “It is always an exhilarating moment when you get to see all the hard work you and your students have put in over the last four years come to fruition, when you see them transition from student to young scholar, confident and prepared to take the next step on their personal and academic journey. That is what I saw as the faculty advisor of Sigma Tau Delta during the AUK chapter’s roundtable presentations and discussion,” she states.
The presentation was well-received by the audience and concluded with a Q&A session whereby discussions on the topic and papers took place.
AUK’s roundtable discussion on metamorphosis with alumnus Abdulaziz Redha, AUK chapter president Chloe Ramey, faculty advisor Professor Angelica DeAngelis, and recent graduate Stephen Sapp.
27, Jul 2021
AUK Hosts Second Talk of Faculty Speaker Series
AUK hosted the second talk of its Faculty Speaker Series entitled “Beyond the Shari’a: The Changing Concept of Romance and Marriage in the Islamic Republic of Iran” presented by Dr. Gholamreza Vatandoust, professor of Near Eastern Studies and History at AUK. The talk’s attendees included AUK’s president Dr. Rawda Awwad, members of the president cabinet, faculty members, students, and members of the general public.
The talk shed light on the pivotal influence of the Islamic revolution in Iran in 1979. Dr. Vatandoust began his talk by revealing that the Islamic revolution of Iran was a remarkable event in global history; in other words, the revolution preceded some significant global events such as the rise of Al-Qaa’eda—an Islamic fundamentalist group, the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, and the emergence of the internet and mass media before the new millennium. “Iran was the first country in recent times that embraced Islam as a political ideology and putting in motion a series of shock waves never seen before,” said Dr. Vatandoust.
One of the emerging trends in Iran during that time was the concept of white marriage that led to the widespread of questions and debates on whether it is legal and whether people should opt for it. According to Dr. Vatandoust, white marriage happens when, “...men and women will entirely choose to live together in partnership without fear of social and religious stigma or prosecution.” In this case, the marriage is not registered in governmental public offices which holds no legal ties for both spouses.
Both qualitative and quantitative methods of research were conducted to come up with findings that revealed Iranians’ perspectives pertaining to white marriage. In terms of the qualitative research, a group of Iranian women who came from different backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses were interviewed. Their thoughts varied between supporting white marriage and opposing it due to their conventional and religious perspectives that prevented them from having a relationship outside of marriage.
On the other hand, the quantitative research involved 172 young Iranians living in both Iran and Canada who offered their opinions on white marriage. The conclusion illustrated that Iranians’ views about white marriage differed between agreement, conditional agreement, and disagreement.
The talk wrapped up with a Q&A session with the attendees, and concluded with Dr. Vatandoust announcing that he would be working on a follow-up study for further information and updates on white marriage in Iran.
The Faculty Speaker Series is a platform that enables faculty members to showcase their research and scholarly accomplishments. The event also allows AUK to make a difference in the community both in Kuwait and beyond by spreading knowledge and awareness about various topics while offering an opportunity to the general public to take part in the AUK experience.
The talk shed light on the pivotal influence of the Islamic revolution in Iran in 1979. Dr. Vatandoust began his talk by revealing that the Islamic revolution of Iran was a remarkable event in global history; in other words, the revolution preceded some significant global events such as the rise of Al-Qaa’eda—an Islamic fundamentalist group, the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, and the emergence of the internet and mass media before the new millennium. “Iran was the first country in recent times that embraced Islam as a political ideology and putting in motion a series of shock waves never seen before,” said Dr. Vatandoust.
One of the emerging trends in Iran during that time was the concept of white marriage that led to the widespread of questions and debates on whether it is legal and whether people should opt for it. According to Dr. Vatandoust, white marriage happens when, “...men and women will entirely choose to live together in partnership without fear of social and religious stigma or prosecution.” In this case, the marriage is not registered in governmental public offices which holds no legal ties for both spouses.
Both qualitative and quantitative methods of research were conducted to come up with findings that revealed Iranians’ perspectives pertaining to white marriage. In terms of the qualitative research, a group of Iranian women who came from different backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses were interviewed. Their thoughts varied between supporting white marriage and opposing it due to their conventional and religious perspectives that prevented them from having a relationship outside of marriage.
On the other hand, the quantitative research involved 172 young Iranians living in both Iran and Canada who offered their opinions on white marriage. The conclusion illustrated that Iranians’ views about white marriage differed between agreement, conditional agreement, and disagreement.
The talk wrapped up with a Q&A session with the attendees, and concluded with Dr. Vatandoust announcing that he would be working on a follow-up study for further information and updates on white marriage in Iran.
The Faculty Speaker Series is a platform that enables faculty members to showcase their research and scholarly accomplishments. The event also allows AUK to make a difference in the community both in Kuwait and beyond by spreading knowledge and awareness about various topics while offering an opportunity to the general public to take part in the AUK experience.
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27, Jul 2021
AUK Professor Dr. Hesham Al-Awadhi Authors New Book
In his new book, Dr. Hesham Al-Awadhi, professor of history and international relations at the American University of Kuwait (AUK), discusses the role slaves played in the Kuwaiti community in terms of society, culture, civilization, language, art, customs, food, and clothes.
“Slaves were the most influential labor force from the pearl diving period to the petroleum production period and it’s not shameful to shed light on this type of history. In fact, it is necessary to highlight this particular era in order to reconcile with it,” states Dr. Hesham.
The book acknowledges the contribution and influence slaves had in the Arab Gulf. It’s also an all-encompassing and inclusive publication that seeks to include all groups of people, especially those marginalized and eradicated by traditional history, instead of solely focusing on the elites.
Upon being asked about the reasoning behind choosing what is considered a delicate subject matter, Dr. Hesham explained that he chose this topic precisely because it is sensitive, and this is what motivates him to research and write in the field of history. He stated that the goal behind any research is to reveal stories, add new insights and new analysis.
Tim Niblock, an emeritus professor of Middle East politics, praised the book, “It's a topic that has always been hidden behind the scenes, and it is an important and necessary part of the history of the Arabian Gulf.” Additionally, Jerzy Zdanowski, a professor at the Institute of Mediterranean and Oriental Cultures, also expressed his appreciation towards Dr. Hesham’s research, “I am happy that a Kuwaiti is continuing research on the issue of slaves in the Gulf.”
Using over 50 sources and exclusive British documentations, The History of Slaves in the Arab Gulf addresses a part of the past that is seldom talked about.
Dr. Hesham Al-Awadhi, Professor of History and International Relations
Book Cover
28, Jun 2021
AUK Launches Office for Research and Grants (ORG)
To continue building research capacity at AUK, the Board of Trustees have approved a resolution to launch AUK’s Office for Research and Grants (ORG) that aims at building research capacity at AUK. The ORG will provide our faculty with research funding and resources, research related engagement opportunities, and appropriate training to support research and scholarly related activities and production. It is founded on the premise that investing our resources into our faculty, staff, and students, not only cultivates talent from within, but energizes a creation of knowledge that is bold, innovative, and impactful.
The Office for Research and Grants (ORG) will ensure compliance with funding guidelines, rules, and regulations and upholding ethical, scientific, and fiscal integrity concerning research and grant activities; assist faculty in their acquisition of external funding; build partnerships with faculty, students, and administrators so that our various research and funding agendas are supported and advanced to move the institution forward; foster industry and academia partnership; and conduct outreach and engagement with local and international research bodies.
The President of AUK, Dr. Rawda Awwad, has appointed Dr. Iyad Abo Doush, Associate Professor of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, as the founding Director of the Office for Research and Grants (ORG).
"The Office of Research and Grants is a pivotal step towards demonstrating the potential of the American University as a research institution, which is an urgent necessity for the university's growth and institutional maturity as one of the pioneers of Kuwait’s private education industry. In addition to supporting the faculty research activity, the Office will promote student research participation and give them opportunities to present and publish their research with the help of the faculty,” said Dr. Abo Doush
ORG’s most immediate plan of action is to encourage the development of research clusters; identify performance indicators; and continuously update policies to promote AUK’s research culture and that are also aligned with evolving international standards. ORG will also be responsible for strengthening undergraduate student research and publications, and faculty/student research collaborations. While operational needs are a focus, ORG will also explore ways in developing the research infrastructure supported through partnerships and research based collaborative agreements that are strategic and long term.
President Rawda Awwad stated: “Our Board of Trustees have always recognized the importance of research and scholarly production. The launching of ORG marks a renewed commitment to getting serious about making AUK’s research and scholarly production matter by ensuring that it has the desirable social impact that we are aiming for.”
The Office for Research and Grants (ORG) will ensure compliance with funding guidelines, rules, and regulations and upholding ethical, scientific, and fiscal integrity concerning research and grant activities; assist faculty in their acquisition of external funding; build partnerships with faculty, students, and administrators so that our various research and funding agendas are supported and advanced to move the institution forward; foster industry and academia partnership; and conduct outreach and engagement with local and international research bodies.
The President of AUK, Dr. Rawda Awwad, has appointed Dr. Iyad Abo Doush, Associate Professor of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, as the founding Director of the Office for Research and Grants (ORG).
"The Office of Research and Grants is a pivotal step towards demonstrating the potential of the American University as a research institution, which is an urgent necessity for the university's growth and institutional maturity as one of the pioneers of Kuwait’s private education industry. In addition to supporting the faculty research activity, the Office will promote student research participation and give them opportunities to present and publish their research with the help of the faculty,” said Dr. Abo Doush
ORG’s most immediate plan of action is to encourage the development of research clusters; identify performance indicators; and continuously update policies to promote AUK’s research culture and that are also aligned with evolving international standards. ORG will also be responsible for strengthening undergraduate student research and publications, and faculty/student research collaborations. While operational needs are a focus, ORG will also explore ways in developing the research infrastructure supported through partnerships and research based collaborative agreements that are strategic and long term.
President Rawda Awwad stated: “Our Board of Trustees have always recognized the importance of research and scholarly production. The launching of ORG marks a renewed commitment to getting serious about making AUK’s research and scholarly production matter by ensuring that it has the desirable social impact that we are aiming for.”
President of AUK, Dr. Rawda Awwad
Dr. Iyad Abo Doush, Associate Professor of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences
28, Jun 2021
AUK Successfully Provides Virtual Guidance Throughout the Academic Year
AUK has successfully provided guidance and support for AUK students throughout the academic year, as it effectively adapted to online learning, and as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting students, most programs and services have been moved online, especially with regards to student advising & registration, tutoring, counseling, and career guidance.
The Writing and Tutoring Center has continued to provide learning support to students throughout their academic journey, serving almost 500 students in over 1200 virtual writing and tutoring sessions. The Center’s staff also visited classrooms at faculty’s request to present its services to students. In collaboration with the Holistic Student Experience, first-year students were encouraged to seek the Center's assistance, and staff visited their classrooms to conduct writing workshops. The Center also supported faculty in offering workshops and small group sessions tailored to meet students' needs.
The Academic Advising Center has been committed to ensuring that all students were well-informed and prepared, and apart from advising services, the Center offered various workshops throughout the year to assist students, such as How to Calculate your GPA, How to Access Degree Works, and What Can I Do with My Major. The Academic Advising Center advised a total of 1104 students throughout the academic year.
Career guidance saw a rise in numbers with a total of 599 students /alumni; this increase also comes with enhanced new departmental practices such as the AUK Alumni Portal to reach alumni and collaborations with prominent external constituencies.
The Counseling Center continued to offer its support and guidance through online counseling sessions, as well as a variety of workshops such as When to Seek Help, Personal Well-Being Checklist, A tiny Journal of Expression, and Thoughts in Lines.
“One of the most essential factors of Student Affairs is to make sure our students are well-supported and guided, and the current pandemic has required that we boost our services to ensure everyone is included, well, and confident academically and outside the classroom. The AUK community is a family, and we are committed to our continued enhancement of support services for our Wolpack. We are proud of our various achievements and how well our students have performed throughout the year,” said Dr. Hanan Muzaffar, Vice President for Student Affairs.
The Writing and Tutoring Center has continued to provide learning support to students throughout their academic journey, serving almost 500 students in over 1200 virtual writing and tutoring sessions. The Center’s staff also visited classrooms at faculty’s request to present its services to students. In collaboration with the Holistic Student Experience, first-year students were encouraged to seek the Center's assistance, and staff visited their classrooms to conduct writing workshops. The Center also supported faculty in offering workshops and small group sessions tailored to meet students' needs.
The Academic Advising Center has been committed to ensuring that all students were well-informed and prepared, and apart from advising services, the Center offered various workshops throughout the year to assist students, such as How to Calculate your GPA, How to Access Degree Works, and What Can I Do with My Major. The Academic Advising Center advised a total of 1104 students throughout the academic year.
Career guidance saw a rise in numbers with a total of 599 students /alumni; this increase also comes with enhanced new departmental practices such as the AUK Alumni Portal to reach alumni and collaborations with prominent external constituencies.
The Counseling Center continued to offer its support and guidance through online counseling sessions, as well as a variety of workshops such as When to Seek Help, Personal Well-Being Checklist, A tiny Journal of Expression, and Thoughts in Lines.
“One of the most essential factors of Student Affairs is to make sure our students are well-supported and guided, and the current pandemic has required that we boost our services to ensure everyone is included, well, and confident academically and outside the classroom. The AUK community is a family, and we are committed to our continued enhancement of support services for our Wolpack. We are proud of our various achievements and how well our students have performed throughout the year,” said Dr. Hanan Muzaffar, Vice President for Student Affairs.
Student Orientation - Fall 2020
28, Jun 2021
AUK’s Student Affairs Provides Virtual Year-Long Activities for Its Community
AUK has successfully provided a series of engaging events and activities for the AUK community throughout the academic year—successfully adapting to online learning and virtual events, as part of its commitment to engaging students outside the classroom, and in honoring outstanding members of the community. The year of online activities culminated last week with Awards Night and Student Employment Recognition Night.
University president, Dr. Rawda Awwad gave the opening remarks for both events, reminding students of the importance of empathy and compassion, and speaking of her own meetings with a group of students throughout the year and sensing the distinction of AUK students. The events then ended with closing remarks by Vice President for Student Affair Hanan Muzaffar who acknowledged the sense of community obvious in the students who remained part of life at AUK during the last challenging year.
The Annual Awards Night that celebrates student engagement in the campus events and activities was conducted via Zoom this year. It was a lively celebration to honor and award outstanding students for their achievements and ongoing engagement throughout the year. The 12 clubs active this year were acknowledged and received a number of awards such as Club of the Year Award, Most Innovative Club Award, and Exceptional Club Member Award. In addition, members of Voice—AUK’s student magazine, and Student Council, were also recognized for their hard work. Finally, participants in Student Life’s leadership program, LEAD at AUK received their certificates of attendance, and students who have shown great engagement in campus events were also acknowledged. Awards Night concludes the events and activities hosted by Student Life through the year, including a Talent Show, International Week, Club Involvement Fairs, and other events.
The Student Employment Recognition Night was a night of appreciation for AUK student employees who served as peer tutors and writing consultants during the e-learning experience, in addition to other students who supported some of our AUK departments as graphic designers and in other positions. The event was organized by the Office of Alumni Affairs and Career Development as the final event of the year that included a Career Fair hosted in collaboration with Khibra.com, an Alumni Reunion that had one of AUK graduates, comedian Shaikha AlKhaldi as a guest, and the Senior Launch to honor our students who will be graduating soon.
“Each year, we strive to provide our students and the AUK community with a wide array of activities and events to engage and inspire our community. We are proud to have successfully adapted to online learning and to have offered various events to ensure our commitment to engaging our fellow Wolfpack continues throughout the years. We are also truly honored to have such a wonderful group of students and alumni who reminds us of the true Wolfpack spirit—of what it is to be an AUK student,” said Dr. Hanan Muzaffar, Vice President for Student Affairs.
University president, Dr. Rawda Awwad gave the opening remarks for both events, reminding students of the importance of empathy and compassion, and speaking of her own meetings with a group of students throughout the year and sensing the distinction of AUK students. The events then ended with closing remarks by Vice President for Student Affair Hanan Muzaffar who acknowledged the sense of community obvious in the students who remained part of life at AUK during the last challenging year.
The Annual Awards Night that celebrates student engagement in the campus events and activities was conducted via Zoom this year. It was a lively celebration to honor and award outstanding students for their achievements and ongoing engagement throughout the year. The 12 clubs active this year were acknowledged and received a number of awards such as Club of the Year Award, Most Innovative Club Award, and Exceptional Club Member Award. In addition, members of Voice—AUK’s student magazine, and Student Council, were also recognized for their hard work. Finally, participants in Student Life’s leadership program, LEAD at AUK received their certificates of attendance, and students who have shown great engagement in campus events were also acknowledged. Awards Night concludes the events and activities hosted by Student Life through the year, including a Talent Show, International Week, Club Involvement Fairs, and other events.
The Student Employment Recognition Night was a night of appreciation for AUK student employees who served as peer tutors and writing consultants during the e-learning experience, in addition to other students who supported some of our AUK departments as graphic designers and in other positions. The event was organized by the Office of Alumni Affairs and Career Development as the final event of the year that included a Career Fair hosted in collaboration with Khibra.com, an Alumni Reunion that had one of AUK graduates, comedian Shaikha AlKhaldi as a guest, and the Senior Launch to honor our students who will be graduating soon.
“Each year, we strive to provide our students and the AUK community with a wide array of activities and events to engage and inspire our community. We are proud to have successfully adapted to online learning and to have offered various events to ensure our commitment to engaging our fellow Wolfpack continues throughout the years. We are also truly honored to have such a wonderful group of students and alumni who reminds us of the true Wolfpack spirit—of what it is to be an AUK student,” said Dr. Hanan Muzaffar, Vice President for Student Affairs.
AUK Virtual Awards Night
Student Employee Recognition Night
23, Jun 2021
AUK Signs Agreement With Ministry Of Defense
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) signed an agreement with the Ministry of Defense—the Military Education that ensures the cooperation between both parties in future academic collaborations.
Through this contract, academic cooperation within the legal framework will be established between AUK and the Ministry of Defense. It allows the Ministry to benefit from the experiences, specialties, scientific and technological programs that AUK offers, whether in establishing training courses, preparing academic syllabi, or consultations.
Both parties are set to plan annual joint activities to implement this agreement in terms of finances and scholarship preparations, including setting criteria and categories in which these scholarships will be offered.
To ensure ease of coordination, ambassadors will be appointed from both sides to form a joint committee that ensures the coordination and execution of the signed agreement and any necessary follow-ups that will be required.
Signed by Major General Fahad Al-Turaiji, head of the Military Education Sector, and AUK president Dr. Rawda Awwad, the contract between AUK and the Ministry of Defense is valid for 5 years and is renewable for the same period of time.
Supported by this agreement, the Ministry can utilize AUK’s unique liberal arts model of education for a holistic and valuable academic experience.
Through this contract, academic cooperation within the legal framework will be established between AUK and the Ministry of Defense. It allows the Ministry to benefit from the experiences, specialties, scientific and technological programs that AUK offers, whether in establishing training courses, preparing academic syllabi, or consultations.
Both parties are set to plan annual joint activities to implement this agreement in terms of finances and scholarship preparations, including setting criteria and categories in which these scholarships will be offered.
To ensure ease of coordination, ambassadors will be appointed from both sides to form a joint committee that ensures the coordination and execution of the signed agreement and any necessary follow-ups that will be required.
Signed by Major General Fahad Al-Turaiji, head of the Military Education Sector, and AUK president Dr. Rawda Awwad, the contract between AUK and the Ministry of Defense is valid for 5 years and is renewable for the same period of time.
Supported by this agreement, the Ministry can utilize AUK’s unique liberal arts model of education for a holistic and valuable academic experience.
Major General Fahad Al-Turaiji, head of the Military Education Sector, and AUK president Dr. Rawda Awwad
02, Jun 2021
EU Ambassadors Mark Europe Day with AUK Community
Celebrating the EU as a promoter of global peace and sustainable development
AUK hosted a distinguished talk on the European Union (EU) with the AUK community to celebrate Europe Day, which marks the founding of the EU as the most successful peace project in the world.
Hosted by the AUK president Dr. Rawda Awwad, the hybrid event focused on the EU as a promoter of global peace and champion of sustainable development, the EU-Kuwait relations and the positive impact of EU enlargement on its 27 member states, bringing together the EU Ambassador to Kuwait and Qatar, H.E. Dr. Cristian Tudor; the Ambassador of Poland to Kuwait and Bahrain, H.E. Paweł Lechowicz; and the Ambassador of France to Kuwait, H.E. Anne-Claire Legendre.
Welcoming the European Ambassadors, President Awwad said, “AUK adheres to its liberal arts principles where conversations, dialog, and opportunities for an exchange of ideas are at the core of university life and experience. The more we can engage with each other and the world, the better we have a chance at improved relations and cooperation and creating long-term constructive solutions to the world’s most pressing issues and concerns.”
Each Ambassador talked about the European Union and what it stands for, including how multilateralism—a concept that advocates for multiple countries pursuing a common and shared goal, is one of its key features.
Showcasing the transformative power of the EU to its nearly 500 million citizens, Ambassador Lechowicz, said, “Poland joined the European Union on 1 May 2004, alongside nine other countries. In doing so, it entered one of the largest free trade, single market and customs unions in the world, which positively changed the political, economic and social life of millions of citizens. Living with open borders and freedom of movement, millions of EU citizens pursued personal career development elsewhere in the EU, making it a dream come true for an entire generation. The EU accession also reinvigorated ‘older’ member states and enhanced security across Europe and enabled the EU to better tackle global challenges such as climate change, migration and poverty through a common approach.”
The EU inaugurated its Delegation to Kuwait in July 2019, in recognition of the increasing importance of Kuwait as a partner of the European Union and Kuwait’s distinguished role in the region. Speaking of the EU-Kuwait relations, Ambassador Tudor said: “Kuwait is a natural partner for the EU as we both strive for more peace and stability in the region through diplomatic means, mediation and dialogue. We also share a strong humanitarian and development focus in our external relations.”
Addressing bilateral ties in the field of education, he then added: “The EU has a number of outstanding programmes such as Erasmus+ and Jean Monnet Actions that aim to facilitate student and academic mobility, promote the exchange of best practices and excellence in teaching and research, all open to universities in Kuwait and the region. Europe is a world-class destination for education, science and innovation and as the first EU Ambassador to Kuwait, I look forward to strengthening bilateral ties in the academic field through study abroad programmes and scientific collaboration with prominent academic institutions in Kuwait.”
Further discussing the global dimension of the EU, Ambassador Legendre added, “The European Union has become the largest donor in development and humanitarian aid globally, the boldest player when it comes to climate action and a fervent supporter of a reformed multilateralism for the 21st century. Kuwait and the European Union share the fundamental conviction that differences should be solved through cooperation and peaceful dialog, and I look forward to discussing with the students how together we can work further into this direction.”
The event was attended by AUK students, faculty members, researchers and partners, as well as representatives from EU services and EU member states, who activity participated in a Q&A session, addressing topical issues and sharing ideas on global cooperation around shared challenges.
AUK hosted a distinguished talk on the European Union (EU) with the AUK community to celebrate Europe Day, which marks the founding of the EU as the most successful peace project in the world.
Hosted by the AUK president Dr. Rawda Awwad, the hybrid event focused on the EU as a promoter of global peace and champion of sustainable development, the EU-Kuwait relations and the positive impact of EU enlargement on its 27 member states, bringing together the EU Ambassador to Kuwait and Qatar, H.E. Dr. Cristian Tudor; the Ambassador of Poland to Kuwait and Bahrain, H.E. Paweł Lechowicz; and the Ambassador of France to Kuwait, H.E. Anne-Claire Legendre.
Welcoming the European Ambassadors, President Awwad said, “AUK adheres to its liberal arts principles where conversations, dialog, and opportunities for an exchange of ideas are at the core of university life and experience. The more we can engage with each other and the world, the better we have a chance at improved relations and cooperation and creating long-term constructive solutions to the world’s most pressing issues and concerns.”
Each Ambassador talked about the European Union and what it stands for, including how multilateralism—a concept that advocates for multiple countries pursuing a common and shared goal, is one of its key features.
Showcasing the transformative power of the EU to its nearly 500 million citizens, Ambassador Lechowicz, said, “Poland joined the European Union on 1 May 2004, alongside nine other countries. In doing so, it entered one of the largest free trade, single market and customs unions in the world, which positively changed the political, economic and social life of millions of citizens. Living with open borders and freedom of movement, millions of EU citizens pursued personal career development elsewhere in the EU, making it a dream come true for an entire generation. The EU accession also reinvigorated ‘older’ member states and enhanced security across Europe and enabled the EU to better tackle global challenges such as climate change, migration and poverty through a common approach.”
The EU inaugurated its Delegation to Kuwait in July 2019, in recognition of the increasing importance of Kuwait as a partner of the European Union and Kuwait’s distinguished role in the region. Speaking of the EU-Kuwait relations, Ambassador Tudor said: “Kuwait is a natural partner for the EU as we both strive for more peace and stability in the region through diplomatic means, mediation and dialogue. We also share a strong humanitarian and development focus in our external relations.”
Addressing bilateral ties in the field of education, he then added: “The EU has a number of outstanding programmes such as Erasmus+ and Jean Monnet Actions that aim to facilitate student and academic mobility, promote the exchange of best practices and excellence in teaching and research, all open to universities in Kuwait and the region. Europe is a world-class destination for education, science and innovation and as the first EU Ambassador to Kuwait, I look forward to strengthening bilateral ties in the academic field through study abroad programmes and scientific collaboration with prominent academic institutions in Kuwait.”
Further discussing the global dimension of the EU, Ambassador Legendre added, “The European Union has become the largest donor in development and humanitarian aid globally, the boldest player when it comes to climate action and a fervent supporter of a reformed multilateralism for the 21st century. Kuwait and the European Union share the fundamental conviction that differences should be solved through cooperation and peaceful dialog, and I look forward to discussing with the students how together we can work further into this direction.”
The event was attended by AUK students, faculty members, researchers and partners, as well as representatives from EU services and EU member states, who activity participated in a Q&A session, addressing topical issues and sharing ideas on global cooperation around shared challenges.
EU Ambassadors celebrating Europe Day at AUK
01, Jun 2021
AUK’s Center for Continuing Education Graduates Diplomat Trainees
The Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at AUK graduated a group of trainees from the Soud Nasser AlSabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute—Kuwait Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the trainees successfully completed the General English for Diplomats Certificate Program—a customized curriculum planned and delivered throughout 5 months.
Commenting on CCE’s conduction of the program during the current pandemic, Ms. Nehal ElShafei, director of CCE said, “With the impact of COVID-19 in Kuwait, CCE-AUK has successfully made learning convenient through end-to-end virtual classroom solutions for all its training programs. We remain committed to serve our clients with the best quality of our training services.”
The program was delivered via Microsoft Teams by internationally-certified and qualified language experts from Kuwait and abroad. The participants were trained to interact confidently in the diplomatic world while enhancing their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Commenting on CCE’s conduction of the program during the current pandemic, Ms. Nehal ElShafei, director of CCE said, “With the impact of COVID-19 in Kuwait, CCE-AUK has successfully made learning convenient through end-to-end virtual classroom solutions for all its training programs. We remain committed to serve our clients with the best quality of our training services.”
The program was delivered via Microsoft Teams by internationally-certified and qualified language experts from Kuwait and abroad. The participants were trained to interact confidently in the diplomatic world while enhancing their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
29, May 2021
AUK Launches its Faculty Speaker Series with a Talk About Theater in the GCC
AUK launched its newly introduced Faculty Speaker Series with a talk entitled “Why Theatre Matters: Three Scenes from the Arabian Peninsula”, by Dr. Katherine Hennessey, AUK Assistant Professor of English and National Endowment for the Humanities Fellow. The talk delved deep into the sociopolitical sphere as it pertains to theater, and conveyed the significance of such understanding at the individual level and broader society.
The talk expressed Dr. Hennessey’s dismay at the current state of theater in the Arab world, describing how it has become synonymous with absurdity and ridiculousness. This understanding of theater minimizes its importance and manifests itself by being absent from culture. Dr. Hennessey proved the significance of paying attention to theater using three key examples from the Arabian Peninsula that focus on sociopolitical content.
As she analyzed “Four O’clock,” a play by Talal Mahmoud, she proved that theater assumes the role of an educator. The play frames the issue of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in a humorous manner, dismantling the stigma associated with it in Arabia. As Dr. Hennessey put it, the medium of theater is unique to any other, in so far as it embodies culture and relays messages in a digestible manner.
Her second analysis focused on the Kuwaiti play “A Bite,” an adaptation of Antoine Chekhov’s “The Chameleon.” The play directed by Abdullah Al-Turkmani amusingly spotlights the injustice citizens and residents of Kuwait face regarding “wasta” and favoritism across all aspects of society. Dr. Hennessey stressed the importance of using metaphors and speaking by similitudes to relay an idea and create shared empathy, without fear of censorship. “Theater is a genre to which we should be paying some attention for its incisive ability to comment on contemporary sociopolitical issues, to evade the strictures of censorship, and above all for its ability to create and to model new forms of community and communal interaction,” she explained.
Finally, Dr. Hennessey shifted the attention to war torn Yemen and expressed how the political climate, rife with turbulence and conflict was depicted on the stage in “Salvation.” Her emphasis on materializing sociopolitical contentions was made apparent through the play. As she explained, the prisoner represented the people of Yemen bound by chains, stuck between two guards that symbolized the power struggle within the state. Dr. Hennessey maintained that this play would have been censored had the creators not used imaginative adaptation as a means of circumventing restrictions.
The lecture ended with a Q&A where attendees got a chance to have a one-on-one with Dr. Hennessey. A total of 54 attendees including President Dr. Rawda Awwad, AUK faculty, staff, and students were present.
The Faculty Speaker Series is a public talk series that aims to broadcast and showcase faculty research, outlooks, and intellectual capabilities through educating both faculty and student body members on an assortment of varied topics. The upcoming talk will take place on May 31st featuring professor Gholamreza Vatandoust, Professor of Near Eastern Studies and History at AUK.
To receive the Zoom link to attend this lecture, please sign up by sending an email to Facultyspeakerseries@auk.edu.kw.
The talk expressed Dr. Hennessey’s dismay at the current state of theater in the Arab world, describing how it has become synonymous with absurdity and ridiculousness. This understanding of theater minimizes its importance and manifests itself by being absent from culture. Dr. Hennessey proved the significance of paying attention to theater using three key examples from the Arabian Peninsula that focus on sociopolitical content.
As she analyzed “Four O’clock,” a play by Talal Mahmoud, she proved that theater assumes the role of an educator. The play frames the issue of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in a humorous manner, dismantling the stigma associated with it in Arabia. As Dr. Hennessey put it, the medium of theater is unique to any other, in so far as it embodies culture and relays messages in a digestible manner.
Her second analysis focused on the Kuwaiti play “A Bite,” an adaptation of Antoine Chekhov’s “The Chameleon.” The play directed by Abdullah Al-Turkmani amusingly spotlights the injustice citizens and residents of Kuwait face regarding “wasta” and favoritism across all aspects of society. Dr. Hennessey stressed the importance of using metaphors and speaking by similitudes to relay an idea and create shared empathy, without fear of censorship. “Theater is a genre to which we should be paying some attention for its incisive ability to comment on contemporary sociopolitical issues, to evade the strictures of censorship, and above all for its ability to create and to model new forms of community and communal interaction,” she explained.
Finally, Dr. Hennessey shifted the attention to war torn Yemen and expressed how the political climate, rife with turbulence and conflict was depicted on the stage in “Salvation.” Her emphasis on materializing sociopolitical contentions was made apparent through the play. As she explained, the prisoner represented the people of Yemen bound by chains, stuck between two guards that symbolized the power struggle within the state. Dr. Hennessey maintained that this play would have been censored had the creators not used imaginative adaptation as a means of circumventing restrictions.
The lecture ended with a Q&A where attendees got a chance to have a one-on-one with Dr. Hennessey. A total of 54 attendees including President Dr. Rawda Awwad, AUK faculty, staff, and students were present.
The Faculty Speaker Series is a public talk series that aims to broadcast and showcase faculty research, outlooks, and intellectual capabilities through educating both faculty and student body members on an assortment of varied topics. The upcoming talk will take place on May 31st featuring professor Gholamreza Vatandoust, Professor of Near Eastern Studies and History at AUK.
To receive the Zoom link to attend this lecture, please sign up by sending an email to Facultyspeakerseries@auk.edu.kw.
Group photo of attendees
Assistant Professor of English, and National Endowment for the Humanities Fellow, Dr. Katherine Hennessey
