4.3.2 Hosting Public Events at University
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) advances its commitment to inclusive and equitable education by organizing educational events that extend learning opportunities beyond its enrolled students. Through public conferences, academic seminars, workshops, cultural exhibitions, and community engagement activities, GUST provides opportunities for individuals from different educational and professional backgrounds to engage in knowledge sharing and lifelong learning.These initiatives bring together researchers, educators, school students, industry professionals, government representatives, and members of the wider community to explore emerging technologies, scientific developments, sustainability challenges, cultural understanding, and professional knowledge.By hosting educational events that encourage public participation and interaction, GUST strengthens its role as a platform for knowledge exchange and community learning, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
1. Academic Conferences and Public Knowledge Exchange
Kuwait Fab City Symposium 2025: Advancing Digital Fabrication and Sustainable Innovation
May 12, 2025 | Computer Science Department
GUST hosted the Kuwait Fab City Symposium 2025 as a free public educational event organized by the Computer Science Department in collaboration with the GUST Fab Lab. The symposium brought together international experts from the University of Hamburg, specialists from the global Fab Lab community, local innovators, researchers, industry representatives, and members of the wider public to explore digital fabrication, sustainability, and the future of localized production. Through keynote presentations and interactive discussions, participants gained insights into how emerging fabrication technologies can contribute to sustainable development, technological innovation, and community resilience. The event also featured a guided tour of the GUST Fab Lab and a capstone project exhibition, where graduating students presented innovative technological solutions developed through their academic projects. By providing free access to expert knowledge, emerging technological concepts, and practical examples of innovation, the symposium reinforced GUST's commitment to accessible lifelong learning and the exchange of knowledge between academia, industry, and society.
Annual Translation Poster Conference: Promoting Sustainability through Language and Knowledge Exchange
October 28, 2024 | English Department
The GUST English Department organized its Annual Translation Poster Conference on October 28, 2024, providing an educational platform for the exchange of knowledge on translation and sustainable development.The conference showcased translation projects developed by senior students focusing on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students and professional translators from other educational institutions were also welcomed to present translations addressing sustainability-related topics.Through interactive poster presentations and discussions, the event encouraged interdisciplinary learning, cross-cultural communication, and greater awareness of global sustainability challenges.By extending participation beyond the university community, GUST supported public educational engagement and demonstrated the importance of language and communication in promoting sustainable development.
2. STEM and Technology Education
Role of Women in Technology: International Women's Day Public Seminar
On March 10, 2025, the GUST Computer Science Department organized a public seminar titled "Role of Women in Tech" at the Huawei Innovation Lab in celebration of International Women's Day.The seminar welcomed members of the community and brought together distinguished speakers from research, academia, and industry:Dr. Hana Alostad, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR).Dr. Rita W. El-Haddad, American University of Kuwait.Ms. Abeer AlFarhan, Huawei Headquarters.The speakers explored the contributions of women to technological innovation, artificial intelligence, research, and leadership, presenting diverse perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing women in technology-related fields.The event provided an educational platform for knowledge exchange and engagement with professionals working across different sectors. By encouraging public dialogue about gender equality, scientific advancement, and technological participation, GUST supported lifelong learning while also contributing to SDG 5 (Gender Equality).
Mathematics and Science Competition: Engaging High School Students in STEM Education
April 13, 2025 | Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
On April in 2024 and 2025, Gulf University for Science and Technology proudly hosted the 10th Annual Math and Science Competition and 11th Annual Math and Science Competition at W6 Hall, led by the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. The event welcomed an impressive 67 public and private schools from across Kuwait, marking a record level of participation and highlighting the growing reputation of this initiative in promoting STEM excellence nationwide.
Throughout the day, students competed in a series of interactive and intellectually stimulating math and science challenges designed to test critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. The competition not only encouraged academic excellence but also fostered a lively spirit of innovation, curiosity, and friendly competition.
Organized in partnership with the Foundation Program Unit and the Center for Teaching, Learning & Research (CTLR), the event brought together educators, experts, and community stakeholders committed to nurturing the next generation of scientists and innovators. Support from the Ministry of Education representatives, participating schools, judges, and organizing committees played an important role in the success of this initiative.
Computer Science Capstone Project Exhibition: Sharing Innovation and Applied Knowledge
May 12, 2025 | Computer Science Department
The GUST Computer Science Department organized its annual Capstone Project Exhibition on May 12, 2025, showcasing graduation projects developed by Computer Science students.The exhibition highlighted how academic knowledge and technical skills can be applied to address real-world challenges through innovative technological solutions.Through demonstrations of student-developed projects, the event provided opportunities to explore practical applications of computing, software development, and technological innovation.The exhibition reflects GUST's commitment to experiential learning, research dissemination, and connecting academic knowledge with practical innovation. Its contribution to public lifelong learning is particularly relevant where participation by external visitors and industry representatives can be documented.
3. Business, Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Sustainable Development
International Conference on Sustainable Development, Social Responsibility and Business Ethics
April 9–10, 2025 | College of Business Administration — Economics and Finance Department
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) hosted the International Conference on Sustainable Development, Social Responsibility and Business Ethics (ICSDSRBE) on April 9–10, 2025, providing an academic platform for knowledge exchange on sustainability, responsible business practices, and ethical decision-making. The conference brought together more than 200 attendees and featured distinguished international academics, including Professor William Megginson from the University of Oklahoma, Professor Brian Lucey from Trinity Business School at the University of Dublin, and Professor Omrane Ghedhami from the University of South Carolina. Through its international academic participation, the conference facilitated the exchange of research perspectives and expertise on sustainable development, corporate social responsibility, and business ethics. The event highlights GUST's commitment to advancing knowledge beyond traditional classroom instruction, fostering international academic engagement, and supporting wider understanding of sustainable and responsible business practices.
GUST Aspiring Innovators: Engaging High School Students in Entrepreneurship and Innovation
April 27, 2025 | AHEAD Center — GUST Aspiring Innovators Competition
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST), through its GUST Aspiring Innovators initiative, organized a high school competition on April 27, 2025, bringing together participants from approximately 12 schools. The competition provided an opportunity for high school students to engage with the university's innovation environment and explore entrepreneurial thinking beyond their regular school curricula. Under the involvement of Dr. Raghid Al Hajj, participating students worked in small teams of approximately two to three members, encouraging collaboration, creativity, and the exchange of ideas. By connecting secondary school students with university-led innovation initiatives, GUST supported early exposure to entrepreneurship and encouraged learners to develop an interest in creative problem-solving and innovation. The initiative demonstrates GUST's commitment to expanding educational engagement beyond its enrolled student population and strengthening connections between higher education and secondary schools across Kuwait.
Global Entrepreneurship Week: Sharing Industry Expertise and Entrepreneurial Knowledge
November 17, 2024 | College of Business Administration — GUST Incubator
As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, the GUST College of Business Administration and GUST Incubator organized a series of entrepreneurship-focused panel discussions on November 17, 2024.The event brought together entrepreneurs and professionals from different business sectors to share their expertise and perspectives on entrepreneurship and business development. Participating speakers included Wendy Da'Cruz, Co-Founder of The Viral Global Consultant Group; Rakan Al Fadalah, Co-Founder of ForeverMore; Mohammad Al Suraye, Co-Founder and CEO of T-Lab/Dawrat; and Abdulah Al Benayan, Operations Manager at CAF Cafe Kuwait and the Middle East.Through these panel discussions, participants were introduced to perspectives from experienced entrepreneurs and business professionals, helping connect academic knowledge with real-world entrepreneurial experience. The initiative contributed to GUST's broader educational mission by facilitating knowledge exchange between academia and industry and encouraging continuous learning in entrepreneurship, innovation, and business development.
India–Kuwait Startup Synergies: Promoting International Entrepreneurial Knowledge Exchange
December 8, 2024 | College of Business Administration
On December 8, 2024, GUST organized an event titled "India–Kuwait Startup Synergies," involving the Embassy of India in Kuwait. The event provided a platform for engagement around entrepreneurship and startup development, highlighting the importance of international connections in supporting entrepreneurial ecosystems.Through this initiative, GUST contributed to strengthening dialogue between academia and external stakeholders while supporting opportunities for the exchange of perspectives on innovation and entrepreneurship.The event reflects GUST's commitment to international engagement and the promotion of entrepreneurship-related learning beyond conventional academic instruction.By encouraging connections between educational institutions and international partners, GUST supports its broader objectives of knowledge exchange, innovation, and lifelong learning. Full Kuwait times Article
4. Cultural, Literary and Language Education
International Cultural Day
GUST proudly celebrated its global diversity on November 11, 2024, as well as on December 11, 2025, by hosting the 1st and 2nd annual International Cultural Day in the campus center. The event welcomed representatives from multiple embassies in Kuwait — including India, South Korea, Japan, Guinea, Egypt, and Romania — who showcased their countries’ unique cultural identities, traditions, and history. The roster expanded in the 2nd annual cultural day with the participation of other embassies, such as: Nigeria, Turkey, France, etc.
The event featured vibrant booths offering traditional food, cultural displays, music, and interactive activities that allowed visitors to immerse themselves in different global experiences. By welcoming the wider community and fostering learning beyond the classroom, International Cultural Day demonstrated GUST’s commitment to inclusivity, cultural appreciation, and SDG 4: Quality Education.
Public Technical Translation Workshop: Expanding Access to Specialized Language Education
May 18–19, 2025 | English Department
The GUST English Department organized a Technical Translation Workshop on May 18–19, 2025, as part of its commitment to extending educational opportunities beyond traditional academic programs.Hosted at the university's Information Technology Center (ITC), the technical translation component was open to the general public, allowing individuals outside GUST to participate in specialized language-learning activities.The workshop introduced participants to technical translation practices and provided opportunities to explore the communication skills required for translating specialized information across languages.Through this initiative, GUST shared academic expertise with the wider community and supported lifelong learning by providing public access to practical educational experiences in language and communication.
Arabic Sign Language Workshop: Promoting Inclusive Communication and Cultural Understanding
November 20, 2024 | English Department
The GUST English Department organized an Arabic Sign Language Workshop on November 20, 2024, introducing participants to the fundamentals of sign language and communication with members of the Deaf community.The workshop provided an educational opportunity to develop basic communication skills while encouraging greater awareness and appreciation of Deaf culture.Through this initiative, participants explored the importance of accessible communication and the role of language education in supporting social inclusion and mutual understanding.The workshop illustrates GUST's commitment to promoting inclusive educational experiences and raising awareness of communication barriers faced by individuals with hearing disabilities.
The Dictionary of Life, Gulf Women's lives: 2 Public book launch event
Literature Students Book Launch
On November 18, 2024, the English Department, hosted a public book launch event celebrating student and faculty contributions to literature and cultural storytelling. Held at the university library, the event welcomed the GUST community and external visitors to explore the power of writing as a medium for education and social awareness.
The launch featured two publications:
• Gulf Women’s Lives: Voice, Space, Place — edited by Dr. Shahd Al Shammari, highlighting diverse narratives of women in the Gulf region
• The Dictionary of Life— a creative anthology written and produced by Dr. Shahd’s literature students, showcasing their reflections on identity, language, and lived experience
The event provided a platform for emerging writers to publicly present their work and engage with attendees, reinforcing GUST’s commitment to lifelong learning and cultural enrichment through accessible educational experiences.
5. Community and Career Learning
Arabic Teachers Training in collaboration with CTLR
December 4, 2024 | the Humanities & Social Sciences Department
On December 4, 2024, the Humanities & Social Sciences Department, in collaboration with the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Research (CTLR), organized the second edition of the Arabic Teachers Training Workshop at GUST. This initiative brought together Arabic high school teachers from across Kuwait, reflecting GUST’s commitment to strengthening community education and advancing innovative teaching practices.
The workshop focused on the theme “Teaching Classical Arabic Poetry Differently”, introducing educators to contemporary instructional strategies that help make poetry more engaging and relevant for today’s students. Through expert-led sessions, the event provided teachers with enhanced pedagogical tools to inspire deeper literary appreciation and improve learning outcomes in their classrooms.
By empowering educators and fostering collaboration across institutions, this annual workshop contributes to lifelong learning opportunities beyond the university community, actively supporting SDG 4: Quality Education and expanding access to professional development for teachers in Kuwait.
Landfill Harmonic Documentary Screening: Education through Arts and Environmental Awareness
May 6, 2025 | Humanities and Social Sciences Department
The GUST Humanities and Social Sciences Department supported an educational documentary screening of Landfill Harmonic on May 6, 2025, fostering discussion about creativity, resilience, and the relationship between music and social and environmental change. The event provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on the transformative role of the arts in addressing social challenges and raising awareness of environmental sustainability. Through the documentary and accompanying dialogue, participants explored how creativity and resourcefulness can contribute to community empowerment and positive social impact. By integrating cultural education with sustainability awareness, GUST demonstrated the value of interdisciplinary learning and the role of creative expression in fostering broader understanding of global challenges.
Toastmasters International
December 12-13, 2025 | Mass Communication & Media (MCM) department
GUST's Mass Communication & Media (MCM) department hosted Toastmasters International, a two-day workshop on public speaking, with the 2025 World Champion in Public Speaking—Mr. Sabyasachi Sengupta—at the helm over the weekend on December 12-13, 2025.
The event brought out enlightening information on public speaking to the faculty members who've attended, allowing the gap between learnt information and practical use to be bridged. This would reflect greatly to the university students, as they can learn and lead from those who have learnt, led and won before.
