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Kuwait Times
06-05-2025
- Science
- Kuwait Times
Kuwaiti youths shine in science and engineering competition
KUWAIT: Former Foreign Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah affirmed that the 11th Kuwait Science and Engineering Competition (KSEC) stands as a distinguished national scientific platform that underscores Kuwait's commitment to supporting scientific excellence, academic achievement, and strategic investment in the country's youth—the future leaders and architects of Kuwait's renaissance. Representing the competition's sponsor, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser delivered a statement during the closing ceremony on Monday, commending the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for its sponsorship of the event. He lauded the participating students for showcasing exceptional creativity and innovation, stating that their contributions reflect the high potential of Kuwaiti youth to lead future development and progress. 'All our children are winners through their participation in this national scientific gathering,' he said. 'We ask Allah Almighty to grant them success in continuing their service to Kuwait under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah.' Second place winners of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Award. The first place winners of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Award. Sheikh Dr Ahmed Nasser Al-Sabah, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Scientific Club takes a group photo with other officials during the ceremony. Sheikh Dr Ahmad extended his appreciation to Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kuwait Science Club, Talal Al-Kharafi, and the board members for their efforts in ensuring the competition's success. He also commended the jury for their professional and objective evaluation of the student projects, and expressed sincere gratitude to the volunteers, administrators, and academic organizers whose contributions were pivotal to the event's success. He paid special tribute to the students and their parents for their ongoing encouragement and support. Speaking at the ceremony, Al-Kharafi said the competition has evolved into a premier platform that unites young innovators and fosters their scientific and technological capabilities. 'This event is no longer merely a venue for presenting projects—it is a testament to the boundless creativity of our youth and their role in building the future,' he said. He added that witnessing students transform their ideas into real-world projects is a source of national pride. 'They are the changemakers who will shape the future through their creativity and ambition,' Al-Kharafi said. He also praised the panel of judges—comprised of distinguished Kuwaiti academics—for their continued voluntary contributions since the competition's inception. Al-Kharafi congratulated the winners of this year's awards and extended his heartfelt thanks to His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah for his steadfast sponsorship, which he described as a cornerstone of the competition's enduring success. He also thanked Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser for his presence at both the opening and closing ceremonies, and expressed gratitude to all sponsors and strategic partners—including KFAS, Kuwait University, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), and EQUATE Petrochemical Company—for their belief in the importance of education and youth empowerment. The 2025 Grand Prize, the His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Award for Scientific Research, was awarded to students Khaled Al-Jumaa and Mohammed Al-Dhabiyan from Ahmed Mishari Al-Adwani Secondary School for Boys for their project 'Farewell to the Oil Well Explosions.' Second place went to Adnan Al-Ateeqi and Mohammed Al-Hasawi from the Joint Talent Academy for Boys for their innovative agricultural project 'The Smart Farmer.' Third place was secured by Wahsh Al-Rajeeb and Nawal Malallah from Mishref Secondary School for Girls for their project, 'Neu.' The 11th edition of the competition featured participation across 22 diverse scientific fields—including the rarely represented social and behavioral sciences—demonstrating the organizing committee's commitment to scientific diversity and inclusive engagement across a broad spectrum of interests. - KUNA
Associated Press
26-03-2025
- Science
- Associated Press
KFAS Announces Call for Nominations for 2025 Al Sumait Prize for African Development in the Field of Food Security
The Al Sumait Prize is in its 11th year, and nominations for the million-dollar prize are called for in the field of Food Security on the African continent KUWAIT CITY, KUWAIT, March 26, 2025 / / -- The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) today announces the call for nominations for the 2025 Al Sumait Prize for African Development in the field of food security. Now in its 11th year, this prestigious award, valued at $1 million, is presented annually to individuals or institutions that have made significant contributions to the advancement of health, food security, or education in Africa. The Al Sumait Prize is named in honour of the late Dr Abdulrahman Al-Sumait, a Kuwaiti physician who dedicated his life to helping disadvantaged communities across Africa. Established in 2015 at the request of the late Amir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the prize recognizes groundbreaking research, innovative projects, and applied initiatives that contribute to Africa's sustainable development. The Al Sumait Prize's Board of Trustees is led by Kuwait's Minister of Foreign Affairs and includes esteemed members from global organizations such as the Gates Foundation, FAO, UNESCO, and IAEA. Past laureates include renowned institutions such as the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases and the Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), demonstrating the prize's commitment to impactful advancements. For 2025, the prize will be awarded in the field of food security, recognizing individuals or institutions whose research projects or initiatives have significantly contributed to one or more of the following areas: • Developing new seed, crop, or livestock varieties to enhance food security and nutrition in Africa. • Increasing the shelf life, caloric, and nutritional value of locally produced and consumed food. • Improving smallholder farmers' access to agricultural inputs, techniques, technologies, and markets to ensure the availability of nutritious food for vulnerable communities. • Enhancing farmers' resilience to climate change and extreme weather variability to secure sustainable food production and nutrition. • Reducing food waste and food loss across Africa's agrifood systems. • Advancing alternative agrifood systems to increase productivity while reducing water footprints, especially in marginal environments. • Promoting the adoption of modern business strategies, digitalization, and marketing in the field of food security and nutrition. • Implementing innovative and sustainable solutions to combat food insecurity and malnutrition. • Addressing gender equality and women's empowerment in achieving food security. • Developing strategies to improve agricultural livelihoods, food security, and nutrition during pandemics. Eligibility and Submission Requirements: Eligible candidates include organizations and research institutions whose initiatives and programs have significantly contributed to solving food security challenges in Africa, as well as outstanding researchers nominated by their institutions or peers. Submitted work must be innovative, have a demonstrable high impact in Africa, and contribute to economic, social, human resources, or infrastructure development within the field. Research should be published in peer-reviewed journals and recognized at a global level, with practical applications in African countries over the past ten years. Nominations must be submitted in English. If the original work is in another language, a comprehensive summary in English must be provided. Deadline for Nominations: Prize info Kuwait Foundation for Advancement of Sciences +965 2227 0465 email us here X LinkedIn Legal Disclaimer:
Zawya
20-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
KFAS launches "TechEdge" program to empower Kuwaiti Youth for Careers in advanced technology in strategic partnership with NBK and Zain
Al-Ablani: NBK remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering Kuwaiti youth, actively contributing to their development The program is aligned with our strategic vision to drive digital transformation, foster innovation, and nurture local talent for a competitive future Nawal Bourisli: This partnership embodies Zain's efforts in advancing the Knowledge Economy and capacity building, particularly in the digital skillsets that shape our world today The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) has launched the "TechEdge" program, a strategic initiative developed in collaboration with National University of Singapore, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), and Zain. This program aims to equip young Kuwaiti professionals with advanced expertise in high-demand technological fields—such as artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity—preparing them to excel in these rapidly evolving sectors. The program aims to underscore the vital importance of cybersecurity and data protection amid growing digital challenges. By equipping participants with in-depth knowledge of cutting-edge technologies and tools, it empowers them to counter cyber threats and strengthen digital infrastructure. Beyond enhancing technical expertise, the initiative prepares young professionals to navigate the evolving demands of an increasingly digital world. This initiative supports New Kuwait Vision 2035 by fostering the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) collaboration, driving economic diversification, and advancing digital transformation. By equipping the workforce with cutting-edge skills, it strengthens Kuwait's path toward a resilient, technology-driven future. On this occasion, Emad Al-Ablani. General Manager - Head of Group Human Resources remarked, 'Our commitment lies in developing a highly skilled national workforce capable of excelling in a rapidly evolving labor market driven by technological advancements. By providing them with the necessary expertise and tools, we empower them to lead in advanced technology fields. This initiative not only reinforces sustainable development but also accelerates Kuwait's digital transformation, aligning with the country's broader strategic vision.' 'The 'TechEdge' program represents a significant opportunity for early-career professionals to enhance their expertise. Through high-quality educational and training initiatives delivered in partnership with the National University of Singapore—a globally recognized leader in technology—the program is poised to equip participants with the skills needed to excel in cutting-edge fields. This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering talent and driving innovation in Kuwait's technology sector,' he added. Al-Ablani emphasized the bank's dedication to playing a pivotal role in the developmental journey of Kuwait's youth, who are brimming with potential and capabilities. "Our focus is on providing the right guidance and resources to harness their talents effectively, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to the nation's sustainable development goals," he concluded. Nawal Bourisli, Chief Purpose and HR Officer at Zain Kuwait, said: "This partnership embodies Zain's continuous efforts to contribute to the development of the knowledge economy, capacity building, and fostering innovation among youth, particularly in digital and tech skillsets that shape our world today. Innovation is one of the key drivers of sustainable growth, and this is precisely what we aim to achieve through our support of the TechEdge program, launched in collaboration with one of the world's leading academic institutions, the National University of Singapore." She added: "This collaboration reflects the synergy between the public and private sectors in advancing the country's developmental goals, with a primary focus on investing in human capital to drive sustainable economic and social development. It is yet another addition to Zain's ongoing programs under our 'Innovation Nation' initiative, through which we collaborate with leading entities to achieve our strategic objectives in this field." She continued: "Through this partnership, we seek to support innovators and entrepreneurs, share private sector expertise, foster a culture of creativity, and invest in the digital skills of youth, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, which have become a top priority in modern job markets." Last year, NBK unveiled the NBK Tech Academy, marking a significant milestone as Kuwait's first academy dedicated to digital technology and data systems. This initiative underscores the bank's commitment to staying at the forefront of digital advancements in technology, information, and data security. The academy features a comprehensive professional training program designed to nurture young Kuwaiti talent across a range of critical areas, including FinTech, Data Analytics, Ethics in Technology, Cyber Security, Fundamentals of Digital Payments, Digital Innovation, Artificial Intelligence, Scripting and Programming, Fundamentals of Codifications, and Finance for Non-Finance Professionals. Through its "Innovation Nation" initiative, Zain is committed to strengthening Kuwait's innovation and creativity ecosystem by offering interactive programs and activities throughout the year in collaboration with leading academic and cultural institutions from both the public and private sectors. This initiative targets youth, students, graduates, and entrepreneurs, covering a wide range of professional and personal development areas, with a particular focus on digital and technological capabilities such as robotics, data science, programming, artificial intelligence, and more, contributing to the development of the next generation of technology leaders in Kuwait.
Arab Times
17-02-2025
- Science
- Arab Times
Kuwait inaugurates 15th Middle East International Invention Exhibition
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 17: Education Minister Jalal Al-Tabtabaei officially inaugurated the 15th edition of the Middle East International Invention Exhibition on Sunday evening. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, was attended by Talal Jassem Al-Kharafi, Chairman of the Kuwait Scientific Club and the exhibition's Supreme Committee, along with ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from various countries. Speaking to the press, Minister Al-Tabtabaei expressed his pride in representing His Highness the Crown Prince at the opening of the exhibition, which is supported by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). The exhibition, running until February 19 at Al-Raya Hall in the Courtyard Marriott Hotel, showcases the innovative works of 180 inventors from 42 countries, with 230 inventions spanning various scientific and technological fields. The minister emphasized the exhibition's significant role in cementing Kuwait's leadership in supporting creativity and innovation, noting that it is the second-largest invention exhibition globally and the largest in the Middle East. He reflected on the exhibition's remarkable growth, from its humble beginnings in 2006-2007, when it started with only 12 inventors in a small tent. Over the years, the event has evolved into a major international platform for innovation. Al-Tabtabaei credited this success to the unwavering support of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince, who have been instrumental in encouraging innovation and scientific projects. He underscored the importance of nurturing creativity as a fundamental pillar for a knowledge-based economy, emphasizing that supporting young innovators is key to sustainable development and global competitiveness. 'The exhibition reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and providing a supportive environment for inventions that align with global technological advancements,' Al-Tabtabaei stated. He also expressed his appreciation for the Kuwait Scientific Club and other supporting organizations, wishing success to all participants and hoping the exhibition would serve as a launching pad for groundbreaking global achievements that position Kuwait as a leader in innovation. In his statement, Al-Kharafi noted that the exhibition continues to grow in scope, with 42 participating countries this year, including first-time participants Ecuador and Nigeria. He added that the event features 180 inventors, showcasing 230 inventions across various scientific and technical disciplines. Al-Kharafi also highlighted the importance of the Arab League's participation for the first time, which has added significant value by offering cash prizes through five of its affiliated organizations. Ali Al-Jumaa, Secretary-General of the Kuwait Scientific Club, emphasized that the exhibition serves as a platform to create investment opportunities for inventors, helping to transform their innovations into commercially viable projects. He stressed the club's ongoing role in fostering a culture of invention and protecting intellectual property, noting that the fair has earned an esteemed global reputation since its inception in 2007. The exhibition aims to encourage Kuwaiti inventors to showcase their work both locally and internationally and to collaborate with governmental and private institutions to further their projects. Al-Jumaa also highlighted the importance of embracing the knowledge economy and staying abreast of the digital revolution. Minister Plenipotentiary Rehab Ezz ElDin, Director of Economic Relations at the Arab League's General Secretariat, commended the exhibition for its high level of organization and extensive participation, emphasizing the importance of international invention fairs in supporting innovation and enhancing scientific cooperation. She extended greetings from the Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and reiterated the League's support for Arab inventors and scientific research. With over 42 countries and 180 inventors participating, the 15th Middle East International Invention Exhibition has once again underscored the region's commitment to technological progress, reinforcing Kuwait's position at the forefront of global innovation and scientific development.
Arab Times
14-02-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
15th Int'l Invention Fair in Mideast to kick off on Sunday
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 14 : The 15th International Invention Fair in the Middle East (IIFME) will kick off in Kuwait on Sunday under the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. The Kuwait Science Club (KSC) will organize the fair, during the period February 16-19 under the theme 'Connecting Investors with Inventors', in collaboration with the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kuwait Science Club and head of fair's organizing committee Talal Al-Kharafireferred to a remarkable increase in the number of participants. In this year's edition 180 inventors, from 42 countries, are taking part in the fair with 230 inventions across various scientific fields, he said, noting that Ecuador and Nigeria are participating for the first time. Al-Kharafi unveiled that the Arab League, for the first time, is providing five financial awards in this fair. This unprecedented level of support comes in line with the directives of Arab leaders to promote innovation, inventions, and scientific research, he argued. Al-Kharafi stated that the fair offers prizes exceeding USD 60,000 to winning inventors. He further noted that several leading international organizations specializing in inventions have been keen to participate in the exhibition since its inception in 2007. Al-Kharafidisclosed that 28 Kuwaiti inventors are participating this year with 17 inventions spanning various scientific realms. He stated that the organizing committee has approved online participation in the fair for the first time, allowing participants to submit their inventions via the official online platform without the need to attend physically, thus broadening accessibility for international inventors. Al-Kharafi emphasized that hosting such a prestigious international event in Kuwait is a source of great pride, particularly as it is organized entirely by a team of dedicated Kuwaiti volunteers who are committed to serving their country. He boasted that the fair has been ranked the leading event of its kind in the Middle East, attributing this success to the high level of professionalism in its organization. He expressed his deep gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al- Sabah for their unwavering support for scientific advancement and youth innovation. Al-Kharafithanked the ministries of interior, foreign affairs, and social affairs for facilitating the participation of international delegates and representatives from research institutions and scientific organizations. For his part, Chairman of the Judging Committee David Farouki said Kuwait has become a leading nation in fostering innovation and invention on a global scale. He noted that the event has witnessed remarkable growth over the past 15 years, making it a focal point for many specialized international organizations. (KUNA)
