Dec 15, 2025

13th Design Expo: Student Innovations Across Disciplines

The KFUPM campus was alive with creativity and innovation on December 13, 2025, as students, faculty, and guests gathered for the 13th edition of the Student Projects Expo, “Design Expo.” Over 239 students presented 60 projects and 8 winning projects, spanning seven cutting-edge research tracks, turning the event into a vibrant showcase of ideas, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving.

From Intelligent Systems to Environmental Technologies, Sustainability, Innovative Technologies, Smart Robotics, Circular Economy, and Autonomous Monitoring, the Expo offered a glimpse into how KFUPM students are addressing some of today’s most pressing challenges. Each project was not only conceptual but also practical, backed by prototypes and real-world testing, with teams liaising directly with companies or organizations to validate their solutions.

Two winning projects, in particular, captured the audience’s attention. One team developed a Smart Traffic Light System to help emergency vehicles navigate through traffic efficiently, ensuring safer and smoother passage while reducing risks for other drivers. Another team proposed a Microwave-Assisted Thermal Enhancement system to optimize heavy crude oil and natural gas extraction by raising reservoir temperatures, tackling industry challenges such as high oil viscosity and gas condensation at production wells.

What made the Expo truly stand out was the energy and engagement throughout the day. Visitors explored projects, asked questions, and witnessed firsthand how interdisciplinary collaboration can transform ideas into actionable solutions. Faculty members and expert judges circulated among the teams, offering feedback, encouragement, and insights into potential industrial applications or entrepreneurial ventures.

By the end of the day, the Design Expo had not only celebrated the students’ creativity and dedication but also highlighted KFUPM’s commitment to nurturing future-ready innovators capable of tackling complex, real-world problems across multiple disciplines.