News
02, Jun 2022
AUK Students Co-Author NATO Report
NATO-ICI Regional Center (NIRC) and the NATO Strategic Direction South-Hub held a joint study day to discuss “Maritime and Energy Security in the Gulf” to gain better understanding into the maritime and energy security dynamics in the Gulf. Discussion was led by subject matter experts on two panels: “The Relevance of the Gulf as a Global Energy Provider over the Next Decade” and “The Energy Security–Maritime Security in the Gulf and Beyond.” While the study day discussion was under Chatham House rules regarding non-attribution, NATO-ICI Regional Center and the NATO Strategic Direction South-Hub wished to preserve and analyze the discussion. They invited Dr. Shareefa Al-Adwani, assistant professor of political science in the Department of International Relations at the American University of Kuwait (AUK), to nominate undergraduate students to serve as researchers and co-authors of the analytical report.
Two AUK students were nominated: Ms. Rahaf Al-Bader, a senior student majoring in international relations, and Mr. Sabah Al-Sabah, a graduate of AUK with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations who is currently pursuing his master’s degree in development and international relations at Sapienza University of Rome and his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at AUK simultaneously. The students were selected based on their stellar academic performances in classes as well as their active participation in local and international conferences and lectures.
Mr. Al-Sabah, Ms. Al-Bader, and Dr. Al-Adwani coordinated a plan for composing the report whereby each would select various discussion topics on which they could report and add sources, research, and analyses. Dr. Al-Adwani then coordinated and compiled the sections, derived further implications, and integrated data visualizations where needed. The paper was written over several weeks while the authors were also fulfilling their full-time university responsibilities. The final draft was presented to the NIRC which was then approved by the NATO Strategic Direction South-Hub.
The authors were invited to the NATO-ICI Regional Center for an informal ceremony of appreciation regarding the paper. Sheikh Fawaz Meshal Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah, assistant undersecretary for information and security follow-up at the National Security Bureau of Kuwait—which oversees the NIRC—expressed his gratitude to the authors for their speedy and accurate analytical report. Shaikha Dr. Alanoud Al-Sabah, acting director of NIRC, highlighted how important it was to connect students, academic writing, and local organizations, and that she looked forward to working with AUK students again. Colonel Filippo Marzio and Ms. Nora-Elise Beck from NATO attended the ceremony and presented NIRC certificates of appreciation to the report authors.
Ms. Al-Bader described her journey throughout this experience, “Being nominated and confirmed by NATO to be a co-author while I was in my senior year at university was a tremendous honor. To be acknowledged and receive recognition with our report being published by NATO was truly fulfilling. This shows that hard work and dedication never go unnoticed in life. I am beyond grateful for this amazing opportunity.” Mr. Al-Sabah agreed and commented, “It was an honor to participate in a study that deals with keeping our country and our region safe from security and economic threats.” Dr. Al-Adwani stated that she hoped for more events and opportunities like the NATO joint study day report so more AUK students could foster their personal and academic growth and accomplishments in line with AUK’s mission and vision.
The full paper can be accessed by clicking here:
Two AUK students were nominated: Ms. Rahaf Al-Bader, a senior student majoring in international relations, and Mr. Sabah Al-Sabah, a graduate of AUK with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations who is currently pursuing his master’s degree in development and international relations at Sapienza University of Rome and his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at AUK simultaneously. The students were selected based on their stellar academic performances in classes as well as their active participation in local and international conferences and lectures.
Mr. Al-Sabah, Ms. Al-Bader, and Dr. Al-Adwani coordinated a plan for composing the report whereby each would select various discussion topics on which they could report and add sources, research, and analyses. Dr. Al-Adwani then coordinated and compiled the sections, derived further implications, and integrated data visualizations where needed. The paper was written over several weeks while the authors were also fulfilling their full-time university responsibilities. The final draft was presented to the NIRC which was then approved by the NATO Strategic Direction South-Hub.
The authors were invited to the NATO-ICI Regional Center for an informal ceremony of appreciation regarding the paper. Sheikh Fawaz Meshal Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah, assistant undersecretary for information and security follow-up at the National Security Bureau of Kuwait—which oversees the NIRC—expressed his gratitude to the authors for their speedy and accurate analytical report. Shaikha Dr. Alanoud Al-Sabah, acting director of NIRC, highlighted how important it was to connect students, academic writing, and local organizations, and that she looked forward to working with AUK students again. Colonel Filippo Marzio and Ms. Nora-Elise Beck from NATO attended the ceremony and presented NIRC certificates of appreciation to the report authors.
Ms. Al-Bader described her journey throughout this experience, “Being nominated and confirmed by NATO to be a co-author while I was in my senior year at university was a tremendous honor. To be acknowledged and receive recognition with our report being published by NATO was truly fulfilling. This shows that hard work and dedication never go unnoticed in life. I am beyond grateful for this amazing opportunity.” Mr. Al-Sabah agreed and commented, “It was an honor to participate in a study that deals with keeping our country and our region safe from security and economic threats.” Dr. Al-Adwani stated that she hoped for more events and opportunities like the NATO joint study day report so more AUK students could foster their personal and academic growth and accomplishments in line with AUK’s mission and vision.
The full paper can be accessed by clicking here:
Images from the event
01, Jun 2022
AUK Hosts 17th Annual Career Fair
AUK held its 17th annual Career Fair where each year employers from leading companies across Kuwait visit campus to discuss future employment opportunities with AUK students and alumni. This initiative is part of AUK's commitment to providing its community with opportunities to meet face-to-face with future employers to explore possible career options. The Career Fair was organized by AUK's Office of Alumni Affairs and Career Development (AACD) and took place in the AUK gymnasium.
The event offered a wide spectrum of full-time employment and internship opportunities. This year’s event was sponsored by K-net, Burgan Bank and Habchi & Chalhoub Trading W.L.L (Platinum Sponsors); Kamco Invest, Drops, ABK and Alghanim Industries (Gold Sponsors); MC Group, PwC and TABCo. Food (Silver sponsors) in addition to over 15 general participants.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, inaugurated the fair with a speech, the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a tour during which she discussed with the participating organizations their job offerings and required student qualifications. In her opening statement, Dr. Rawda talked about the unique qualities that AUK students possess, “Our students take individual initiative, and understand the value of collaboration, and teamwork; they have shown instances of empathy and compassion, and they have become aware of the broader challenges that any society faces, especially now. Most importantly, our students have learned how to learn. These qualities that you will find in our students will ensure your organization’s sustainable growth and development.”
Knet reflected upon their participation in this year’s career fair and what their involvement entails, “Knet’s participation comes as an affirmation of its keenness to support young talents and fresh graduates at the American University of Kuwait and to provide them with the opportunity to be employed in the private sector,” stated Knet’s representative.
The event also featured DOT—an interactive robot. DOT introduced the speakers and interacted with students and alumni to provide information about participating employers and their recruitment opportunities. DOT represented the theme of the career fair which is about the advancement of technology and how utilizing these advancements can simplify processes and expand the landscape of creativity.
Attendees interacted with the companies, among which was Burgan Bank where they gained a deeper understanding of the employment sector. “Burgan Bank’s participation in the AUK Career Fair represents a great opportunity to connect with alumni seeking careers or internships in the banking sector. Our presence in the fair highlights the importance we give to informing and inspiring talented youth aspiring for promising careers with an employer of choice,” affirmed Burgan Bank’s representative. Attendees also spoke with different professionals and were offered advice on how to apply for jobs. “As a job-seeking alumna, the career fair provides many opportunities to familiarize myself with the positions and opportunities provided by the leading companies in Kuwait,” said a student attending the fair.
These interactions demonstrated the AUK community’s knowledge and drive to pursue successful careers as observed by the representatives from Habchi & Chalhoub Trading W.L. L’s, “It is a privilege to be a part of this initiative with AUK and to be able to engage with young and energetic caliber of students. We look forward to collaborating in future initiatives and welcome AUK students to any potential work opportunities to visit our careers website.”
Some company representatives also included AUK graduates such as Hana Nasser who expressed her support of the event’s attendees, “As an alumna, I’m proud to represent my employer at the career fair, allowing me to see AUK from both lenses, as a student and an employee while supporting fellow students to build their career by making job opportunities available for the Wolf Pack.”
Gift bags, brochures, complementary treats, contact details, and CVs were exchanged between the exhibitors at the fair and the inquirers, creating a welcoming space to grow, develop, and learn.
The event offered a wide spectrum of full-time employment and internship opportunities. This year’s event was sponsored by K-net, Burgan Bank and Habchi & Chalhoub Trading W.L.L (Platinum Sponsors); Kamco Invest, Drops, ABK and Alghanim Industries (Gold Sponsors); MC Group, PwC and TABCo. Food (Silver sponsors) in addition to over 15 general participants.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, inaugurated the fair with a speech, the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a tour during which she discussed with the participating organizations their job offerings and required student qualifications. In her opening statement, Dr. Rawda talked about the unique qualities that AUK students possess, “Our students take individual initiative, and understand the value of collaboration, and teamwork; they have shown instances of empathy and compassion, and they have become aware of the broader challenges that any society faces, especially now. Most importantly, our students have learned how to learn. These qualities that you will find in our students will ensure your organization’s sustainable growth and development.”
Knet reflected upon their participation in this year’s career fair and what their involvement entails, “Knet’s participation comes as an affirmation of its keenness to support young talents and fresh graduates at the American University of Kuwait and to provide them with the opportunity to be employed in the private sector,” stated Knet’s representative.
The event also featured DOT—an interactive robot. DOT introduced the speakers and interacted with students and alumni to provide information about participating employers and their recruitment opportunities. DOT represented the theme of the career fair which is about the advancement of technology and how utilizing these advancements can simplify processes and expand the landscape of creativity.
Attendees interacted with the companies, among which was Burgan Bank where they gained a deeper understanding of the employment sector. “Burgan Bank’s participation in the AUK Career Fair represents a great opportunity to connect with alumni seeking careers or internships in the banking sector. Our presence in the fair highlights the importance we give to informing and inspiring talented youth aspiring for promising careers with an employer of choice,” affirmed Burgan Bank’s representative. Attendees also spoke with different professionals and were offered advice on how to apply for jobs. “As a job-seeking alumna, the career fair provides many opportunities to familiarize myself with the positions and opportunities provided by the leading companies in Kuwait,” said a student attending the fair.
These interactions demonstrated the AUK community’s knowledge and drive to pursue successful careers as observed by the representatives from Habchi & Chalhoub Trading W.L. L’s, “It is a privilege to be a part of this initiative with AUK and to be able to engage with young and energetic caliber of students. We look forward to collaborating in future initiatives and welcome AUK students to any potential work opportunities to visit our careers website.”
Some company representatives also included AUK graduates such as Hana Nasser who expressed her support of the event’s attendees, “As an alumna, I’m proud to represent my employer at the career fair, allowing me to see AUK from both lenses, as a student and an employee while supporting fellow students to build their career by making job opportunities available for the Wolf Pack.”
Gift bags, brochures, complementary treats, contact details, and CVs were exchanged between the exhibitors at the fair and the inquirers, creating a welcoming space to grow, develop, and learn.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, giving her opening statement
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, and platinum sponsors during the ribbon cutting ceremony
AUK's robot, DOT, in the career annual fair
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30, May 2022
AUK Art & Graphic Design Department Launches 15th Annual Capstone Exhibition
The Art & Graphic Design Department at AUK launched its 15th annual Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition which took place at the Promenade Cultural Centre. The exhibition offered senior students an opportunity to display their creative work, which covered a range of themes, including social and cultural awareness, corporate identity, and entrepreneurship.
The exhibition ran for one week and participating students were evaluated by industry experts based on their creativity and presentation, their ability to conduct and use graphic design research strategy effectively, and their ability to plan and implement a compelling graphic design display.
The chair of the Art & Graphic Design Department, Professor William Anderson, talked about the exhibition and what it represents, “After a two-year hiatus on in-person exhibitions, AUK's Art & Graphic Design Department is proud to present the Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition 2022. The exhibition showcases the final large-scale projects of graduating graphic design majors. Their capstone projects bring together all of the knowledge and skills they have acquired at AUK and shines a light on their talent and creativity."
Held on an annual basis, the Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition brings together visitors from the field of graphic design, including experts from graphic design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, Claire Giddings, expressed her pride towards AUK’s students and the effort they put in, “I’m really proud of our students for an amazing capstone exhibition, particularly overcoming all the obstacles we faced this semester. The work is quite amazing and diverse and really celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of our students.”
AUK’s Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition presents an opportunity for senior students to fully incorporate their design strengths and learning into a focused and extended process of research and visual expression.
Saba Al-Enezi, a digital artist who was one of AUK’s participating exhibitors discussed how the University aided her in reaching her full potential, “The art department is the best. They helped me through my projects and made me feel confident and secure. AUK is such a safe community that allows you to express yourself and your art.”
Students and visitors interacted and shared details and information about their art projects, illustrating AUK’s high departmental standard and quality of work.
The exhibition ran for one week and participating students were evaluated by industry experts based on their creativity and presentation, their ability to conduct and use graphic design research strategy effectively, and their ability to plan and implement a compelling graphic design display.
The chair of the Art & Graphic Design Department, Professor William Anderson, talked about the exhibition and what it represents, “After a two-year hiatus on in-person exhibitions, AUK's Art & Graphic Design Department is proud to present the Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition 2022. The exhibition showcases the final large-scale projects of graduating graphic design majors. Their capstone projects bring together all of the knowledge and skills they have acquired at AUK and shines a light on their talent and creativity."
Held on an annual basis, the Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition brings together visitors from the field of graphic design, including experts from graphic design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, Claire Giddings, expressed her pride towards AUK’s students and the effort they put in, “I’m really proud of our students for an amazing capstone exhibition, particularly overcoming all the obstacles we faced this semester. The work is quite amazing and diverse and really celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of our students.”
AUK’s Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition presents an opportunity for senior students to fully incorporate their design strengths and learning into a focused and extended process of research and visual expression.
Saba Al-Enezi, a digital artist who was one of AUK’s participating exhibitors discussed how the University aided her in reaching her full potential, “The art department is the best. They helped me through my projects and made me feel confident and secure. AUK is such a safe community that allows you to express yourself and your art.”
Students and visitors interacted and shared details and information about their art projects, illustrating AUK’s high departmental standard and quality of work.
Click on the image to view the photo gallery
26, May 2022
AUK Hosts Fifth Talk of Faculty Speaker Series
AUK hosted the fifth and final talk of the Faculty Speaker Series for the academic year 2021-2022 entitled “A New Simple Programming Language for Education” presented by associate professor of computer science, Dr. Aaron Rababah, from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Attendees included AUK’s president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, faculty members, students, and members of the general public.
Dr. Aaron shared with the viewers his technical experience in developing a new programming language called SIMPLE which stands for “Simple Imperative-Model Programming Language for Education”. The new language is a complied procedural language that aims to simplify programming syntax and to relieve beginners from advanced programming concepts.
The inspiration behind this project is the lack of literature available in the engineering and computer science field to develop programming languages from scratch. Dr. Aaron added that he developed this language as he observed great educational benefits to exposing students to the process of creating and programming a language.
SIMPLE has been extensively tested using more than 60 different test programs designed carefully to target language elements and features. The final tests showed that the language is reliable and ready to be adopted in education.
The talk wrapped up with a Q&A session with the attendees where Dr. Aaron was asked about the advantages of SIMPLE over other programs, he stated, “You don’t get to see the whole depth of abstractions levels from the high level all the way to the machine code, I chose that path which is a pure compilation because it is the deepest, and I wanted to go across these levels just for the learning objectives that I have”. He also added, “It definitely carries much more weight and much more opportunities for us to learn.”
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.
Dr. Aaron shared with the viewers his technical experience in developing a new programming language called SIMPLE which stands for “Simple Imperative-Model Programming Language for Education”. The new language is a complied procedural language that aims to simplify programming syntax and to relieve beginners from advanced programming concepts.
The inspiration behind this project is the lack of literature available in the engineering and computer science field to develop programming languages from scratch. Dr. Aaron added that he developed this language as he observed great educational benefits to exposing students to the process of creating and programming a language.
SIMPLE has been extensively tested using more than 60 different test programs designed carefully to target language elements and features. The final tests showed that the language is reliable and ready to be adopted in education.
The talk wrapped up with a Q&A session with the attendees where Dr. Aaron was asked about the advantages of SIMPLE over other programs, he stated, “You don’t get to see the whole depth of abstractions levels from the high level all the way to the machine code, I chose that path which is a pure compilation because it is the deepest, and I wanted to go across these levels just for the learning objectives that I have”. He also added, “It definitely carries much more weight and much more opportunities for us to learn.”
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.
Group photo of the lecture attendees
24, May 2022
AUK Hosted Masterclass Series Event with DJ Bonita
AUK hosted the first Masterclass Series event for the spring 2022 semester entitled, “Learn About DJing and Turn Your Passion into a Career” presented by AUK alumna Farah Bishara, also known as DJ Bonita. Attendees included AUK’s Office of Student Life, staff members, and students. The event involved a talk by DJ Bonita about her journey as a female DJ in the Arab world. She also demonstrated the steps of learning how to create a DJ mix using her equipment.
DJ Bonita’s journey began when she first started her career in radio during 2012 in which she hosted a daily Hip-Hop radio show on Kuwait's English station, 99.7 RKFM. 5 years later, Farah made DJing her full-time career, working with local and international brands, special events, and private celebrations.
DJ Bonita has worked with international and local brands, restaurants, gyms, and yoga centers which was an important step in her career as a DJ as it provided more exposure of her talents. Following her passion for DJing and music, Farah is now running & managing Vinyl Destination, Kuwait's first record store. Vinyl Destination initially started as a record store and has now expanded into a broader space that brings together lovers of music, food, and street culture through events that feature a wide selection of vinyl and music memorabilia.
DJ Bonita ended the masterclass event by giving a motivational talk to the audience, encouraging all students to aim for good grades in university and to follow their passions and turn them into lifelong careers.
DJ Bonita’s journey began when she first started her career in radio during 2012 in which she hosted a daily Hip-Hop radio show on Kuwait's English station, 99.7 RKFM. 5 years later, Farah made DJing her full-time career, working with local and international brands, special events, and private celebrations.
DJ Bonita has worked with international and local brands, restaurants, gyms, and yoga centers which was an important step in her career as a DJ as it provided more exposure of her talents. Following her passion for DJing and music, Farah is now running & managing Vinyl Destination, Kuwait's first record store. Vinyl Destination initially started as a record store and has now expanded into a broader space that brings together lovers of music, food, and street culture through events that feature a wide selection of vinyl and music memorabilia.
DJ Bonita ended the masterclass event by giving a motivational talk to the audience, encouraging all students to aim for good grades in university and to follow their passions and turn them into lifelong careers.
AUK alumna, Farah Bishara, demonstrating how she uses her equipment and giving a lecture about her journey as a DJ
AUK alumna, Farah Bishara, demonstrating how she uses her equipment and giving a lecture about her journey as a DJ
23, May 2022
AUK participates in “DERASTI” university exhibition
AUK participated in the “Derasti” university exhibition that took place in the Avenues Mall. AUK was present alongside 15 other local universities. AUK’s Office of Admissions and Center for Continuing Education (CCE) were available to answer inquiries from parents and prospective students seeking to further their education.
The admissions director, Mr. Maher Dabbouseh, expressed his enthusiasm about the exhibition, “We’re excited to have students back on campus. AUK is the only university in Kuwait with an Ivy League partner (Dartmouth College), and we take pride in recruiting the best students in Kuwait.”
Ms. Nehal El-Shafai, CCE director, discussed how the center displayed its complete one-stop-shop for better learning experiences during the exhibition, “We do not just think about being future-ready but lead the way through our innovative professional and career development programs for various audiences.”
Mr. Maher Dabbouseh, admissions counselors, and the CCE representative offered information about campus life and the different academic and training programs, services, workshops, courses, degrees, IEP program, and scholarships.
Prospect cards, gift bags, flyers, and brochures were distributed and contact was established between inquirers and the spokespeople available at the booth.
The exhibition provided an opportunity for universities to not only promote themselves but also provide information to the visitors about their institutions.
The admissions director, Mr. Maher Dabbouseh, expressed his enthusiasm about the exhibition, “We’re excited to have students back on campus. AUK is the only university in Kuwait with an Ivy League partner (Dartmouth College), and we take pride in recruiting the best students in Kuwait.”
Ms. Nehal El-Shafai, CCE director, discussed how the center displayed its complete one-stop-shop for better learning experiences during the exhibition, “We do not just think about being future-ready but lead the way through our innovative professional and career development programs for various audiences.”
Mr. Maher Dabbouseh, admissions counselors, and the CCE representative offered information about campus life and the different academic and training programs, services, workshops, courses, degrees, IEP program, and scholarships.
Prospect cards, gift bags, flyers, and brochures were distributed and contact was established between inquirers and the spokespeople available at the booth.
The exhibition provided an opportunity for universities to not only promote themselves but also provide information to the visitors about their institutions.
Admissions Director, Mr. Maher Dabbouseh, with admission counselors and CCE representative.
Below: AUK Admissions Director and staff answering visitors' inquiries.
Below: AUK Admissions Director and staff answering visitors' inquiries.
12, May 2022
AUK Renews Credit Transfer Agreement with K-Tech
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) renewed its transfer articulation agreement with Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) to facilitate credit transfer between the respective institutions to provide a smooth transition for their students from one related program to another.
The signing ceremony was attended by the chairman of K-Tech, Mr. Meshari Boodai; vice president of finance & administration, Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Ajeel; vice president for student affairs & registration, Ms. Noura Boodai; and head of Student Career Services, Ms. Emman Al-Shatti. AUK attendees included the president, Dr. Rawda Awwad; executive vice president, Ms. Amal Al-Binali; and the University registrar, Mohammed Da’na.
Mr. Boodai expanded on the agreement’s mission, "This agreement is to facilitate the transfer of a maximum number of credits from K-Tech to AUK academic programs to ease diploma students’ journey in pursuing their bachelor’s degrees. This agreement comes within the framework of the two institutions. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with all academic institutions with new experiences that they we will offer for K-Tech graduates,” he said.
The transfer articulation agreement covers many diploma programs from K-Tech that are transferable to AUK’s related undergraduate programs. Dr. Rawda Awwad commented on the significance of this agreement by stating, “AUK is about creating, sustaining, and expanding an educational experience that is unique and aspirational. Our agreement with K-Tech provides its student constituents access to a liberal arts education where knowledge and skills serve as the cornerstones for lifelong learning and professional success. We, therefore, welcome this agreement which focuses on the need of all students and provides them with the means to make important and constructive life choices.”
20, Apr 2022
AUK Sponsors Iftar Event for American Business Council
AUK sponsored an Iftar event hosted by the American Business Council in Crowne Plaza hotel. AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad; director of the human resources department, Mr. Paul Bassil; embassy officials, and ABCK board members were in attendance.
Dr. Rawda warmly welcomed everyone in the event through her opening statement, “I’m delighted to be here today on the breaking of fast in observance of Ramadan, one of the holiest months in the Muslim faith. The American University of Kuwait is honored to have been given this opportunity, especially considering its long-standing association with the American Business Council of Kuwait.”
The chairman of ABCK also gave a welcoming speech and shed light on ABCK’s role as an association. Activities such as raffle draws also took place during this event. Through this sponsorship, AUK continues to sustain and develop its relationship with ABCK.
Dr. Rawda warmly welcomed everyone in the event through her opening statement, “I’m delighted to be here today on the breaking of fast in observance of Ramadan, one of the holiest months in the Muslim faith. The American University of Kuwait is honored to have been given this opportunity, especially considering its long-standing association with the American Business Council of Kuwait.”
The chairman of ABCK also gave a welcoming speech and shed light on ABCK’s role as an association. Activities such as raffle draws also took place during this event. Through this sponsorship, AUK continues to sustain and develop its relationship with ABCK.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, giving her opening statement
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, receiving a token of appreciation
Director of the human resources department, Mr. Paul Bassil, receiving a raffle draw prize
Group photo of AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, with embassy officials and ABCK board members
11, Apr 2022
AUK Director of Library Joins International Advisory Board for Princeton University Press
The director of the library at AUK, Asma Al-Kanan, joins the inaugural International Advisory Board for Princeton University Press (PUP). Library advisory boards are widespread for publishers to get advice and insight from librarians on new products, strategies, access modules, and licensing.
Sharing expertise and insights through such forums will inform PUB’s publishing philosophies and priorities. The focus of the board will be on academic resources and collections; the board will discuss a variety of strategic and operational topics of PUP. The role of the board involves active participation in the discussion and responding to questions that would help PUP shape up or improve certain services/collections.
Commenting on her new role in the Board, Asma stated, “Libraries are always referred to as the heart of academic institutions. So being at the heart of the academic conversation here at AUK for so many years has been a learning experience, which would definitely enable effective engagement with the outer communities—whether publishers or other strategic partners.”
Princeton University Press was founded in 1905 as a non-profit publisher that is associated with Princeton University. It commits to equitable, inclusive, and sustainable publishing. Publishers usually look for librarians that are active in the profession in various parts of the world, those who engage actively in different communication channels or with other publishers too along with members that represent a broad spectrum of library types.
Sharing expertise and insights through such forums will inform PUB’s publishing philosophies and priorities. The focus of the board will be on academic resources and collections; the board will discuss a variety of strategic and operational topics of PUP. The role of the board involves active participation in the discussion and responding to questions that would help PUP shape up or improve certain services/collections.
Commenting on her new role in the Board, Asma stated, “Libraries are always referred to as the heart of academic institutions. So being at the heart of the academic conversation here at AUK for so many years has been a learning experience, which would definitely enable effective engagement with the outer communities—whether publishers or other strategic partners.”
Princeton University Press was founded in 1905 as a non-profit publisher that is associated with Princeton University. It commits to equitable, inclusive, and sustainable publishing. Publishers usually look for librarians that are active in the profession in various parts of the world, those who engage actively in different communication channels or with other publishers too along with members that represent a broad spectrum of library types.
Asma Al-Kanan, director of library
11, Apr 2022
AUK Library Hosts Sheikha Intisar Salem Al-Ali for Book Discussion on ‘400 Years of Kuwait’
As part of the University’s weeklong commemoration of Kuwait’s National and Liberation Days, The American University of Kuwait (AUK) hosted philanthropist, entrepreneur, and author Sheikha Intisar Salem Al-Ali and Ms. Rokaya Ali Hussain, for a discussion of their book, 400 Years of Kuwait. Organized by the AUK library and moderated by Dr. Hesham Al-Awadi, AUK professor of political science, the authors delved into their experiences in preparing the book and the importance of documenting history in a way that resonates with younger generations.
400 Years of Kuwait, which was published in 2019, comprises hundreds of pictures, documents, and visual sources spanning the reigns of Kuwaiti rulers from HH Sabah I in the 1700s to the late Amir HH Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Sheikha Intisar affirmed Dr. Al-Awadi's observation that the book focused on popular and social history instead of an exclusive look at official political or military history, highlighting how this focus makes the book a unique entry in the ever-growing collection of national history publications. Brief chronological snippets fill the book, marking items like the first general budget as well as early cinema tickets—capturing the wide spectrum of significant national events and cultural milestones that collectively make up a history of the people and a nation.
This particular focus grew out of Sheikha Intisar’s desire to engage young people, including her own daughters, with their history in a more dynamic way than traditional approaches. With 5 years of research in various archives and private collections around the country, and with a preference for the power of stories over dates, the authors stressed how national pride is bolstered by an improved knowledge of history. In the case of Kuwait’s past, the authors found their research revealed an enduring perseverance over adversity and a recurring commitment to progress, which they hoped would inspire future readers.
Sheikha Intisar also shared personal anecdotes on her own upbringing and perception of the changing social climate, drawing on her interest in positive psychology to share advice with university students, inviting them to pursue their passions and strengths as best as they can, no matter the circumstances. This emphasis on positive experiences, she suggested, could lead to lasting contributions to national heritage. Dr. Al-Awadi also pointed out that the AUK library is an ideal place for anyone looking to acquaint themselves with history or any other subjects, thanks to the excellent resources and repositories of knowledge available to students and scholars alike.
The speakers closed the discussion by fielding several questions from the engaged attendees. In addition, the authors related their pride in presenting the book to the late Amir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the present Amir Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and other notable dignitaries. Members of the AUK community then gathered for a book signing and discussions of the event.
400 Years of Kuwait, which was published in 2019, comprises hundreds of pictures, documents, and visual sources spanning the reigns of Kuwaiti rulers from HH Sabah I in the 1700s to the late Amir HH Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Sheikha Intisar affirmed Dr. Al-Awadi's observation that the book focused on popular and social history instead of an exclusive look at official political or military history, highlighting how this focus makes the book a unique entry in the ever-growing collection of national history publications. Brief chronological snippets fill the book, marking items like the first general budget as well as early cinema tickets—capturing the wide spectrum of significant national events and cultural milestones that collectively make up a history of the people and a nation.
This particular focus grew out of Sheikha Intisar’s desire to engage young people, including her own daughters, with their history in a more dynamic way than traditional approaches. With 5 years of research in various archives and private collections around the country, and with a preference for the power of stories over dates, the authors stressed how national pride is bolstered by an improved knowledge of history. In the case of Kuwait’s past, the authors found their research revealed an enduring perseverance over adversity and a recurring commitment to progress, which they hoped would inspire future readers.
Sheikha Intisar also shared personal anecdotes on her own upbringing and perception of the changing social climate, drawing on her interest in positive psychology to share advice with university students, inviting them to pursue their passions and strengths as best as they can, no matter the circumstances. This emphasis on positive experiences, she suggested, could lead to lasting contributions to national heritage. Dr. Al-Awadi also pointed out that the AUK library is an ideal place for anyone looking to acquaint themselves with history or any other subjects, thanks to the excellent resources and repositories of knowledge available to students and scholars alike.
The speakers closed the discussion by fielding several questions from the engaged attendees. In addition, the authors related their pride in presenting the book to the late Amir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the present Amir Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and other notable dignitaries. Members of the AUK community then gathered for a book signing and discussions of the event.
Images from the event
