Jul 03, 2026

Students Earn Distinction in Qimam Fellowship 2026

Five KFUPM students have been selected for one of the Kingdom’s most competitive leadership development programs, the Qimam Fellowship 2026. Supported by more than 40 leading national and international institutions, the program is dedicated to identifying and empowering promising university students to become the leaders of tomorrow.

Out of more than 18,000 applicants from universities across Saudi Arabia, only 50 students were selected for the fellowship. Among them were KFUPM students Saeed Alwadai (Software Engineering), Nora Algidthi (Chemical Engineering), Mohammed Al Sheqaih (Software Engineering), Saeed Alyami (Chemical Engineering), and Abdulaziz Alkhateeb (Software Engineering).

The fellowship program includes leadership and professional development opportunities, mentorship from distinguished leaders and executives, and networking with experts from various sectors. The students progressed through a rigorous multi-stage selection process that included detailed applications, personal essays, and multiple interviews with ministers, senior executives, and industry leaders. Their selection reflects their leadership potential and community impact.

“Real growth does not come from achievement alone, but from consistent effort, learning, and making the most out of every opportunity,” said Mohammed Al Sheqaih. “Many doors open to those who are willing to strive, learn, and challenge themselves.”

For Abdulaziz Alkhateeb, one of the main challenges was balancing responsibilities while adapting to a highly competitive environment. “I overcame these challenges through careful organization, teamwork, and by making the most of the guidance and support provided by my mentors,” he said.

The students described the fellowship as a transformative experience that strengthened their leadership skills, expanded their professional networks, and reinforced their aspirations to contribute to the Kingdom’s future across different sectors.

“My experience as a Qimam Fellowship participant marked an important milestone in my university journey,” said Saeed Alwadai. “It provided me with the opportunity to strengthen my leadership skills and connect with an exceptional network of leaders and ambitious students.”

Nora Algidthi highlighted how KFUPM’s supportive environment contributed to her professional development and helped refine her leadership skills. “The continuous support and involvement played a significant role in my acceptance into the highly competitive Qimam Fellowship,” she said.

The students also encouraged their peers to pursue similar opportunities and continuously invest in their personal and professional growth. “Do not wait until you feel completely ready before pursuing big opportunities,” Mohammed Al Sheqaih reflected. “Every university experience can become a step toward something much greater.”

The selection of KFUPM students for the Qimam Fellowship 2026 attests to the university’s efforts to develop economy-creating talent that will establish new sectors in emerging fields and contribute to the Kingdom’s future development. It also shows the long-held 7 Habits of KFUPM students, particularly those of high aspirations and self-reliance.