Finalist

Engaged University of the Year Award

KFUPM’s Strategic Engagement Journey

Finalist Engaged University of the Year Award

KFUPM - Saudi Arabia


Summary

In 2024, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) significantly advanced its role as a globally engaged university, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and reinforcing its international presence. Through strategic efforts, KFUPM signed over 10 selective agreements—including MoUs, Student Exchange Agreements, and Visiting Student Agreements—with globally recognized institutions. These partnerships were designed not only to increase faculty and student mobility but also to foster high-impact research collaborations and academic exchanges. The university also hosted delegations from top universities and embassies, furthering global dialogue and establishing the groundwork for future joint initiatives.
 
KFUPM’s community engagement is deeply embedded in its institutional strategy. With over 13,000 students and 900 academic staff, the university launched numerous interdisciplinary research initiatives, including hydrogen technologies, smart city solutions, and water desalination, in partnership with Saudi Aramco, SABIC, and NEOM. It has also invested in innovative educational platforms like HIVE and interdisciplinary programs such as AI+X® to ensure students are equipped to tackle real-world challenges.
 
Locally, student-led initiatives had measurable impact, such as reducing energy consumption in Al Khobar and improving waste management in Dhahran. Internationally, more than 200 students participated in global internships, contributing to sustainable development and social innovation in countries like the U.S., Germany, and the UAE.
 
KFUPM’s strategic approach integrates financial sustainability, cutting-edge infrastructure like Dhahran Techno Valley, and a forward-thinking curriculum that combines AI, sustainability, and global partnerships. These efforts collectively position KFUPM as a leader in shaping a knowledge-based, engaged society, regionally and globally.

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