Jun 30, 2025

Bright Minds Kick Off Mawhiba at KFUPM

KFUPM has launched the 2025 edition of the Mawhiba Academic Enrichment Program, now in its 24th year, in partnership with the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba). The program, which began on June 29, brings together more than 280 talented male and female students from across the Kingdom for an intensive three-week experience in science, technology, and innovation.

The program offers a rich academic environment that blends hands-on lab work, specialized coursework, and guided field visits to some of the region’s leading companies and research institutions. This year, the program is offering a variety of academic tracks for students, including electrical engineering, data science and artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, chemical applications, engineering design, and others. However, its goals extend far beyond academics.

“The program isn’t just about delivering advanced scientific content,” said Dr. Riyad Ashmeel, Program Director. “It’s a space for discovery, innovation, and developing both personal and leadership skills. It nurtures creativity and encourages critical thinking and teamwork.”

Dr. Salma Albelali, Vice Director – Program Administration, highlighted one inspiring aspect of this year’s edition: “The return of our former trainees as student organizers — many of whom have achieved remarkable success, such as the ISEF award,” she noted. “Their journey from students to mentors reflects the program’s lasting impact and the meaningful cycle of transferring knowledge, experience, and inspiration to the next generation.”

The program’s opening was filled with excitement, fueled by the presence of students’ families. One parent shared how her daughter, Dayala Abdulaziz, took the initiative to apply for Mawhiba from an early age and remained motivated through the support of her teachers and peers, highlighting the impact of students’ environments on their journeys.

Student Narjes Al-Zawad, whose father graduated from KFUPM, shared the personal significance of the experience. “Being here on the same campus where my father once studied is deeply motivating,” she said.

Now in its 24th year, the program continues to reflect KFUPM’s commitment to nurturing the Kingdom’s gifted youth. For three weeks, faculty members dedicate their time and expertise to mentoring students, helping them explore their research ideas and develop prototypes under the guidance of specialists in their respective fields.

Among the participants are winners of the 2025 ISEF competition, including Abdulrahman, who conducted his research at KFUPM. “Everything I needed was readily available, and everyone was willing to help at any time with tools and guidance,” he shared.

Another ISEF awardee, Salman Al-Shahri, expressed his gratitude for the university’s support. “I’m truly thankful to KFUPM for granting direct admission to students who won the ISEF award. It’s a huge incentive and a meaningful recognition of our efforts.”

With a long-standing commitment and a forward-looking approach, the university remains a place where gifted students develop their potential and take meaningful steps toward lasting impact.