"SWCC" Signed a Cooperation Agreementwith "KFUPM" To Conduct Research Programs Using Membranes and Thermal Technologies

On Tuesday, October 23, 2018, Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) and King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) signed a partnership agreement to explore opportunities for cooperation in the development of research programs related to the desalination industry through the use of the promising techniques based on membrane and thermal technologies.

The agreement was signed by HE Eng. Ali Bin Abdul Rahman Al Hazmi, Governor of Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) and Dr. Sahel N. Abduljauwad, KFUPM Rector.

According to the agreement, which was signed during the visit of the Corporation's Governor and his accompanying delegation to the University, SWCC will establish the “Tahlia Oasis” at its Institute for Research and Desalination Technologies in Jubail. Using a variety of techniques, the complex will be designed to accommodate experimental units for international research companies and institutions specialized in desalination research. This will provide broad opportunities to share ideas and create a competitive research environment that responds to the challenges of water security.

The complex will create strategic research partnerships through which all resources, information and materials will be harnessed to promote, develop and commercialize sustainable desalination technologies. KFUPM will have its own area that will enable it to enter into research partnerships with the Corporation.

The agreement grants the parties the right to access research activities and technical studies in the field of water desalination technologies that contribute to cost reduction. Moreover, the researchers from each party could be invited to the scientific and technical conferences and seminars and training programs specifically designed for the desalination industry. SWCC will provide scholarships for PhD and MSc students at the university and the opportunity to train and employ KFUPM students by participating in the annually organized Open Day for Employment and Career Day.

For his part, HE Eng. Ali bin Abdul Rahman Al Hazmi, SWCC Governor, stressed that the strategy of the Corporation depends heavily on its performance and productivity in research and innovation.

The agreement with King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals will enhance the mission of SWCC due to the university's diverse potential, human capabilities and creative energies.

He pointed out that the Corporation is constantly looking for the best opportunities through partnership with the most prestigious universities and research institutes to support the development of the desalination industry and provide the best scientific and technical solutions.

For his part, Rector of King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dr. Sahel N. Abduljauwad, was pleased to sign the agreement and said the agreement is a manifestation of the University's interest in providing scientific and technical services.

He also stressed that KFUPM is interested in collaborative research, fostering entrepreneurial initiatives, investment and cooperation with companies, institutions and the sectors of society in the areas of mutual interest.

In addition, he pointed to the University's contribution, through its research centers, to the development of sustainable water desalination technologies at the lowest cost.