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AUK has officially launched the 2025–26 academic year with comprehensive orientation programs for its faculty and staff, alongside President Dr. Rawda Awwad’s annual State of the University Address. Together, these events set a clear direction for the year ahead, underscoring AUK’s role as Kuwait’s only liberal arts university and its mission to advance Kuwait Vision 2035.
The Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees, Sheikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment, “As we move forward into a new academic year, I extend my best wishes to the AUK community. Our shared commitment to growth and excellence in learning and leadership is what defines this institution. The Board remains steadfast in supporting AUK’s mission as Kuwait’s liberal arts institution, advancing knowledge, opportunity, and leadership for the nation’s future.”
President Awwad opened the orientation with a powerful address, highlighting AUK’s distinctive place in Kuwait’s higher education landscape. “Our path forward is clear: to serve Kuwait by standing as its liberal arts university, distinctive, resilient, and aligned with national priorities. When students graduate from AUK, I want them to say three things: I was known there. I learned well there. I grew up there. That is the promise of a liberal arts education, and that is the measure of our mission,” she said.
Also welcoming the employees back to campus and providing university updates, Paul Bassil, executive director of human capital and facilities management said, “We are excited to welcome our employees back and celebrate the outstanding results from our Great Place to Work recognition. This achievement reflects the culture of trust, collaboration, and care that our people have built together. Looking ahead, we are committed to strengthening this foundation and taking bold steps on our journey to becoming the employer of choice—where every employee feels valued, empowered, and inspired to thrive.”
In parallel, each of the three colleges—Arts & Sciences, Business & Economics, and Engineering & Applied Sciences—held dedicated meetings to discuss their missions and academic goals for the year. Faculty and administrators focused on departmental priorities while aligning with the broader institutional vision. Workshops and discussion sessions offered practical guidance on teaching, research, and support services, reinforcing AUK’s values of integrity, creativity, and inclusivity.
Additionally, the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) welcomed faculty back to campus with its annual Shaping Excellence Together – Faculty Kickoff Event. The gathering brought together new and returning faculty in a collegial, collaborative setting to reconnect, share ideas, and set a positive tone for the academic year ahead.
The kickoff created space for faculty to strengthen connections, welcome new colleagues into the community, and exchange strategies for enhancing student learning. Over conversations and a shared meal, participants reflected on their teaching practices and explored how the CTE can best support their goals in the coming year. “Every new year gives us the chance to imagine what’s possible in the classroom. When we come together as educators, sharing our energy, our creativity, and our commitment, we create more than lessons; we create moments that inspire our students and shape their futures,” said Ms. Basema Dana, director of the Center for Teaching Excellence.
As AUK enters its third decade, it continues to distinguish itself in Kuwait’s higher education landscape. Through its liberal arts mission, the university remains committed to empowering young people to lead, innovate, and contribute to the country’s progress, while ensuring its faculty and staff are equipped to guide students toward success.
KIPCO CEO and Chair of AUK's board of trustees, Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad giving the state of the university address
Executive director of human resources and facilities management, Paul Bassil giving his speech at the orientation
General photo of the faculty orientation
General photo of the faculty orientation
General photo of the faculty orientation
General photo of the faculty orientation
AUK is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi as Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), effective September 7, 2025.
Dr. Al-Awadhi earned her Ph.D. in Political Philosophy from the University of Texas at Austin and later served as a Visiting Scholar at Georgetown University. She also led the Kuwait Cultural Office in Washington, DC, where she oversaw major educational initiatives and student services. Her career reflects a strong record of leadership that aligns closely with AUK’s academic mission and strategic priorities.
As Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Al-Awadhi will provide strategic leadership for the University’s academic enterprise. She will be responsible for advancing academic priorities, strengthening teaching and learning, and aligning the University’s mission with Kuwait’s educational and workforce needs.
This appointment marks an important milestone in AUK’s institutional development. With the University now entering the implementation phase of its strategic plan, the creation of a dedicated VPAA role ensures focused leadership to guide AUK’s academic direction, foster research and scholarship, and prepare students for professional success.
Dr. Al-Awadhi expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, stating:
“I am honored to be appointed VPAA at AUK. I look forward to working closely with the AUK community to advance its mission, vision, and strategy, and to ensure that our students are well prepared for the future. With dedication and collaboration, I am committed to strengthening AUK’s role as Kuwait’s leading liberal arts university.”
Dr. Rawda Awwad, President of AUK, emphasized the importance of this decision, stating:
“Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi joins AUK at a pivotal moment, as we carry forward our strategic plan and academic mission. She will play a central role in advancing AUK’s academic contribution and presence within Kuwait’s educational and societal landscape. We are delighted to welcome her and look forward to working with her in service of our students and the wider academic community in Kuwait.”
Dr. Aseel Al-Awadhi, vice president of academic affairs at AUK
AUK, in collaboration with strategic sponsor KIPCO, is proud to announce that registration is now open for Kuwait’s 6th NASA Space Apps Challenge, taking place on October 4–5, 2025 at the AUK campus.
The NASA Space Apps Challenge is the world’s largest annual global hackathon, where innovators, creators, and problem-solvers from across the globe collaborate over 48 hours to design innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Participants will have access to NASA’s open data and will join thousands of like-minded individuals in cities around the world.
Since its launch in 2012, the Space Apps Challenge has empowered participants of all ages and disciplines—from coders and scientists to designers, engineers, storytellers, technologists, and space enthusiasts—to transform bold ideas into meaningful projects.
Dr. Marwa Sharawi, the local lead for NASA Space Apps Challenge in Kuwait shares her encouragement to join this year’s event, “For the sixth consecutive year, we are honored to host and lead the NASA Space Apps Challenge 2025 in Kuwait. As part of a global initiative that fosters innovation and collaboration, this event brings together Kuwait’s brightest minds from students and researchers to professionals and entrepreneurs to address real-world challenges through open science and creativity. It is a distinguished opportunity to showcase Kuwait’s innovation potential on the world stage, and we invite participants from all disciplines and backgrounds to join us in this impactful endeavor.”
The hackathon encourages diversity of skills and thought. Participants will work in teams to conceptualize, prototype, and present their solutions to a panel of judges, with opportunities for local and global recognition. The entire event will be conducted in English.
Interested participants can register through the link in AUK’s bio on its Instagram account AUK_Official.
About NASA Space Apps Challenge
The NASA International Space Apps Challenge is a global hackathon engaging tens of thousands of participants worldwide to tackle challenges faced both on Earth and in space. Space Apps inspires collaboration, innovation, and creativity, enabling individuals to contribute to NASA’s mission of exploring the universe for the benefit of humanity.
AUK proudly highlights the success of its international programs initiatives this summer, welcoming graduate interns from abroad and sending AUK students across the globe to study and work at prestigious institutions.
Inbound Programs
AUK hosted Lola Ponchon and Julia Belakova, graduate students from Sciences Po Paris pursuing master’s degrees in European Affairs with a concentration in Education and Research Policy, as part of the 7-week funded Graduate Internship Program.
During their time at AUK, Lola contributed to the Office of Student Life and the Office of International Student Programs, while Julia supported the Academic Advising Center and the Office of International Student Programs. Their work spanned student support services, academic advising, Erasmus+ partnership development, pre-arrival orientations for international students, content creation, and engagement sessions in collaboration with Campus France Kuwait.
This program underscores the value of cross-border collaboration and reflects AUK’s commitment to fostering internationalization and mutual growth in higher education.
Outbound Programs
Simultaneously, AUK awarded nine scholarships to outstanding students for study abroad and international internship opportunities:
Shatha Mutairi – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Office of Web Services and Communications
Noor Qaddoumi – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Office of Web Services and Communications
Aayah Saleh – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Office of Pluralism and Leadership
Anas Jabr – Dartmouth College, USA – Internship in the Tuck School of Business
Tala Tolba – Dartmouth College, USA – Exchange Semester
Fajer Jarkhi – Dartmouth College, USA – Exchange Semester
Mariam Hassan – University of Roehampton, UK – Study Abroad Semester
Batoul Kassem – The George Washington University, USA – Study Abroad Semester
Sara Saab – The George Washington University, USA – Study Abroad Semester
Representing Kuwait on the international stage, these students gained invaluable academic and professional experiences while contributing meaningfully to their host universities and communities.
Through scholarships, exchange programs, and funded internships, AUK continues to open doors for students and partners worldwide to participate in meaningful cultural exchange and professional development. These programs reaffirm AUK’s mission of preparing students to thrive in a globalized world while fostering international partnerships rooted in shared learning and growth.
Anas Jabr, Shatha Mutairi, Aayah Saleh, Noor Qadoumi at Dartmouth College
Batoul Kassem & Sara Saab at the George Washington University
Julia & Lola exploring Kuwait
Julia Belakova, graduate student intern at AUK
Lola Ponchon, graduate student intern at AUK
Mariam Hassan at the University of Roehampton
AUK was proud to serve as the academic partner and venue sponsor for the 10th edition of LOYAC’s flagship program, KON for Social Entrepreneurship, and its closing ceremony held at AUK’s Theater.
In collaboration with Babson College, a global leader in entrepreneurship education, the KON program has, over the past decade, empowered youth across Kuwait by instilling values of leadership, social responsibility, and innovation. This year’s edition continued that legacy, bringing together ambitious young participants, sponsors, and community leaders to celebrate four weeks of intensive training, mentorship, and hands-on project development.
As the host institution, AUK provided an inspiring academic environment where participants presented nine innovative entrepreneurial projects addressing pressing social issues through sustainable solutions. The projects reflected a wide spectrum of community needs, ranging from environmental and educational initiatives to health and cultural programs.
Speaking on behalf of AUK, Mr. Paul Bassil, senior director of human capital and facilities management, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “The KON Program, in collaboration with LOYAC, is a transformative initiative that empowers young people through experiential learning, innovative leadership, and social responsibility. By fostering critical thinking and practical skills, it prepares the next generation to drive positive change in Kuwait and beyond.”
Ms. Futooh Al-Dallali, Member of the Board of Directors at LOYAC, said, “Today we celebrate the conclusion of the 10th edition of the KON Social Entrepreneurship Program, and with it we celebrate the fruits of ten years of hard work and a deep belief in the ability of youth to drive change and build a brighter future for our Kuwaiti society. Since its launch, the program has been more than just a training platform; it has been an incubator for ideas, a bridge between ambition and reality, and a true space for belonging and creativity. What we witnessed this year—in terms of intellectual maturity, innovative solutions, and participant diversity—reaffirms that investing in youth is the most valuable and impactful investment. The projects presented this year were not only unique in concept, but full of life, rooted in community needs, and built upon a clear vision for sustainable positive impact.”
AUK’s participation as an academic partner reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and youth empowerment, in alignment with Kuwait Vision 2035. Hosting KON on campus not only showcased AUK’s role as a hub for thought leadership but also reinforced the university’s mission to connect education with community impact.
As AUK continues to expand its partnerships with organizations like LOYAC, the university remains committed to nurturing a culture of innovation and preparing students and youth across Kuwait with the skills and mindset needed to shape a brighter, more sustainable future.
Mr. Paul Bassil receiving an award from Ms. Futooh Al-Dalali
Group Photo
AUK hosted its Student Media Production Event under the supervision of Professor Mohammed Akbar, associate professor of communication and media. The event showcased the exceptional creativity and innovation of AUK students in broadcasting, film production, and advertising, highlighting their growing impact in media content creation.
During the event, students presented their Mobile Videography Final projects, which included advertisements, short films, and documentaries, along with broadcast and news segments developed in past and current semesters. The two-hour program concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding student achievements in film production and media storytelling.
The event drew faculty, peers, and guests, who witnessed the high quality of student work and the promising future of AUK’s communication and media students.
Leading the event, Professor Akbar—an experienced media professional with over three decades in broadcast journalism and media translation—shared valuable insights throughout the presentations and acknowledged the remarkable contributions of participating teams.
This initiative reflects AUK’s mission to equip students with practical skills in media production, critical thinking, and storytelling, preparing them to thrive in the ever-evolving media landscape.
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Abdulrahman Almoqahwi
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Ali Habeeb
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Khaled Abdal
Dr. Akbar awarding participating student, Nour Zaouk
Dr. Akbar awarding the participating students
AUK held its graduation commencement for the class of 2025 on Wednesday 25th June conferring the degrees on 424 graduates—158 of which were from the College of Arts and Sciences, 143 from the College of Business and Economics, and 123 from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Amongst the 2025 cohort, 7 graduates were awarded highest honors (summa cum laude), 30 awarded high honors (magna cum laude), and 45 awarded honors (cum laude).
Held at The Arena Kuwait, the graduation ceremony was attended by Sheikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, founder and chair of AUK's Board of Trustees, members of the AUK board of trustees, diplomats, dignitaries, and families of this year's graduates.
Following the national anthem and the Holy Quran recitation, AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad reflected on the unique synergy between the nation's cultural heritage and the University’s academic vision. Drawing attention to the deep-rooted values that shape both Kuwait and AUK, she stated, “With its long-standing commitment to education, its enduring spirit of hospitality, and its deep civic values, Kuwait offers a cultural foundation that resonates profoundly with the ideals of a liberal arts education. It is this harmonious convergence—of global perspective and local tradition—that gives AUK its distinctive character and enduring relevance.”
The secretary-general of the Private Universities Council, Mr. Adel Ahmed Al-Bader spoke inspiringly to the graduates, stating that they are the driving force who are tasked with elevating Kuwait to new heights on the global stage through innovation, leadership, and commitment.
This year’s keynote speech was delivered by Her Excellency, Aliya Mawani, Ambassador of Canada to the State of Kuwait. She emphasized the importance of honing the skills acquired by the graduates during their time at AUK to inflict positive impacts, “The world beyond AUK will test your character and what you have learned here. In those moments, remember who you are, embrace your superpower, and use your unique talents and perspectives to write your own story and make your contribution to your communities, to Kuwait, and to the world in the way that feels true for you.”
Following the keynote address, AUK’s vice president for Student Affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan, announced the class valedictorian, Yousef Al-Hamad, who earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering with a minor in mathematics and a cumulative GPA of 3.94.
During his speech, Yousef reflected on the journey shared by the graduating class and offered an inspiring message of gratitude and hope, “Let us carry forward all our experiences into the brighter future, as each and every single one of them has shaped us just as they've shaped all those around us. Let us cherish these wonderful memories as we use them to soar higher through whatever life throws at us.”
The event then proceeded to the part of the ceremony most anticipated by the students—the distribution of their earned degrees. Upon the recommendations of the deans—Dr. Ali Charara, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Mohammad Elian, dean of the College of Business and Economics; and Dr. Mohamed El-Abd, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, President Awwad conferred upon the graduates their respective degrees. The graduates were then awarded their diplomas by President Awwad and respective college deans.
In keeping with the academic tradition, the graduates were requested to shift their tassels from right to left, thereby marking their official graduation from AUK. As the ceremony drew to its conclusion, the graduating class celebrated the occasion and took photos with their parents.
AUK is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence. Offering a diverse range of accredited undergraduate programs, the campus fosters collaboration and cultural diversity. AUK's state-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology and research laboratories, and students also enjoy recreational facilities such as the gymnasium and lounge. AUK is dedicated to empowering students with knowledge, skills, and experiences that transcend the classroom, shaping future leaders and change-makers.
AUK currently offers 16-degree programs in various academic disciplines. AUK received its institutional accreditation from the Private Universities Council (PUC) in Kuwait in 2006. The College of Business & Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business(AACSB); the College of Arts and Sciences is accredited by the American Academy for Liberal Education (AALE); its Bachelor of Arts in Design (concentration in graphic design) is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD); and the Intensive English Program is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA); the Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
AUK hosted its 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony, celebrating outstanding student achievement, leadership, and dedication. The event, hosted by student Rana Abu Salah, honored the year’s most impactful contributions across academics, athletics, and campus life.
The evening began with a highlight video showcasing student-led initiatives, club activities, events, and sports accomplishments, followed by a speech from student Celine Sulaiman, who shared how attending an AUK Model United Nations conference inspired her to join the university.
Awards recognized excellence in student organizations, with Tala Al-Fadhala named Most Exceptional Member of the Year. The Finance Club’s Play it Forward 2 won Event of the Year, and the SPARC Club earned Most Improved Club. Club of the Year was jointly awarded to the Finance Club and Graphic Design Club for their exceptional programming and engagement.
In athletics, Yousif Al Boloushi was named Male Athlete of the Year and Hala Abu Hilwa Female Athlete of the Year. Academic honors went to Nuha Al Salhi (College of Arts & Sciences), Mariam Al Saif (College of Business and Economics), and Yousef Al-Hamad (College of Engineering and Applied Sciences).
The prestigious Wolf Pack Award went to Shoroq Bukhamseen and Mariam Abusharkh for their leadership and community spirit. The evening concluded with the President’s Award, presented to Fajer Al Sabah for her exceptional academic performance, leadership, and embodiment of AUK’s values.
Reflecting on the event, Omar Mehdi, Director of Student Life, said, “Our students are the heartbeat of campus life, and it’s an honor to celebrate their achievements.”
The ceremony celebrated not only individual success but also the vibrant community that defines the AUK experience.
Event MC, student Rana Abu Salah
Finance Club members receiving their Club of the Year award
Finance Club members receiving their Event of the Year award
Group photo of the Finance Club and Graphic Design Club members
Group photo of the Finance Club members with their awards
Sparc Club members receiving the Most Improved Club Award
Student athlete, Yousef Al-Bloushi receiving his Male Athlete of the Year award
Student, Fajer Al-Sabah receiving her award from the AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad
Student, Mariam Abusharkh receiving her WolfPack Award
Student, Nuha Al-Salhi receiving her academic honors award from the dean of the College of Arts & Sciences
Student, Shoroq Bukhamseen receiving her Wolf Pack Award
Student, Tala Al-Fadhala receiving her Most Exceptional Member of the Year award
Student, Yousef Al-Hamad receiving his award for academic honors from the dean of the College of Engineering & Applied Sciences
The College of Business and Economics welcomed brothers Essa and Yousef Al-Mezaiel—co-owners of Espresso Lab Kuwait—as guest speakers in the university’s long-running Entrepreneur in Residence series, which has been hosted since 2017 by Professor Salime Smadi, professor of organizational behavior.
The event drew business and engineering students eager to hear the inspiring story of two siblings who transitioned from the construction industry to the world of specialty coffee franchising. Essa Al-Mezaiel, an AUK alumnus, and his brother Yousef recounted their unexpected entrepreneurial pivot, sparked by a chance visit to a café in Amman, Jordan. That visit led them on an international journey through Jordan and Turkey in pursuit of the Espresso Lab franchise—a journey fuelled by passion, persistence, and faith.
Despite having no background in the food and beverage sector, the brothers trusted their instincts—and their palate. With support from family, they became the first Espresso Lab franchisees in Kuwait. Finding a suitable flagship location was a major hurdle, but their prior experience in construction proved invaluable when they secured and transformed a space in Marina Mall, Salmiya. With hands-on support from the franchise’s Turkish founder, they successfully launched the brand locally.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, group photo, and presentation of certificates of appreciation. Reflecting on the event, Professor Smadi said, “It is always an extremely proud moment when former students return to inspire the next generation of AUK entrepreneurs. This is the spirit of the Wolf Pack.”
Images from the event
AUK has taken a major step toward advancing women’s participation in STEM with the launch of a groundbreaking educational initiative in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kuwait. The project, titled Empowering Women Through Engineering Design, is supported by the Netherlands’ prestigious Shiraka Programme and unites AUK with the renowned Delft University of Technology (TU Delft).
The collaboration aims to enhance AUK’s Engineering Design course through international academic exchange, sustainability-centered innovation, and a clear focus on empowering women in engineering. The initiative includes a robust program of guest lectures, interdisciplinary workshops, and faculty exchange, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge-sharing and professional development.
The initiative is led by Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, associate professor of systems engineering at AUK’s College of Engineering & Applied Sciences (CEAS), who will also serve as the principal investigator for this initiative along with Dr. Mohammed El-Abd, dean of CEAS who will be serving as the co-principal investigator, in addition to Dr. Fatima-Zahra Abou Eddahab-Burke, assistant professor at TU Delft.
Commenting on the significance of this initiative, Dr. Mohammed said, “Securing the Shiraka grant in partnership with a prestigious institution like TU Delft is a proud milestone for CEAS,” said Prof. El-Abd. “This collaboration perfectly aligns with CEAS’s mission to offer high-quality engineering programs rooted in the core values of liberal arts education. It is also in line with our long-term vision focusing on innovative research and the positive contributions of our graduates.”
The Shiraka Programme, established in 2016 by the Netherlands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supports good governance and societal development across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Through thematic courses and institutional partnerships, Shiraka promotes democratic values, improved public service, and the inclusion of youth and women in governance.
This partnership reinforces AUK’s broader mission to cultivate an academic environment that promotes critical thinking, effective communication, personal growth, community service, and leadership—especially among underrepresented groups in STEM.
Group photo of the AUK and Dutch embassy delegation
