Nov 11, 2025

KFUPM Students Earn Rhodes Scholarships to Oxford

Two exceptional students from KFUPM — Osama Aljohani and Omar Alomran — have been awarded the renowned Rhodes Scholarship to pursue their postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford in October 2026, joining more than a hundred scholars from around the world.

The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902, is one of the most selective and oldest international academic awards. Its rigorous process evaluates academic excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to community service.

Osama Aljohani, a senior in chemical engineering with a passion for hydrogen mobility and energy innovation, has led several university initiatives — from founding Gaming+ to support Saudi game developers to launching Student Breakthrough Research, a program connecting undergraduates with research centers. His work on crude-to-chemicals conversion and sustainable energy solutions positions him to pursue graduate studies in Energy Systems and Sustainability at Oxford.

Omar Alomran, a software engineering graduate specializing in artificial intelligence, has already made his mark in economics and public policy. He has collaborated with the Saudi Ministry of Economy and Planning, contributed to Thmanyah’s economic coverage reaching millions, and received prestigious fellowships from BCG Jeel Tamooh and Misk Ignited Voices. At Oxford, he plans to pursue a Master of Public Policy, focusing on evidence-based economic and social reforms across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

Their journey follows that of Mohammed Alghadeer, KFUPM’s first Rhodes Scholar in 2022, who had the opportunity to pursue a DPhil in Condensed Matter Physics at Oxford, focusing on quantum information technology. A year later, Ahmed Alsulami, another distinguished KFUPM student, earned the Rhodes Scholarship in 2023 and continues to advance his exploration of theoretical physics frameworks at Oxford. Together, these achievements highlight KFUPM’s supportive academic ecosystem, where strong mentorship and global readiness empower students to excel and make a lasting impact on the international stage.

Education lies at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, empowering exceptional Saudis to gain the skills and knowledge that advance the nation’s economic diversification. In line with this vision, KFUPM has embarked on a strategic transformation to help drive the Kingdom’s shift toward a knowledge-based economy. Through its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and global engagement, the university continues to serve as a launchpad for future leaders, individuals who turn ambition into meaningful global impact.