President Message

As we struggle with a planet in constant change and an ever-increasing population with over 8 billion people pushing global resources further every year, technological advances offer the potential to serve nations in a more equitable way, of which KFUPM pushes at the boundaries in advanced research and science. However, is it collectively enough? Our dominance and desire for growth has had an impact on ecological systems, the atmosphere, the sea, and our way of life, which is now a critical factor in the changes we are experiencing on Earth.

As we strive to fulfil our ambitious goals of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia as well as various other countries and governments worldwide have adopted the United Nations (UN) 17 Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) for a Sustainable Earth. Universities are undoubtedly at the forefront of this change through advances in research or teaching the next generation of future innovators. Our collective role at KFUPM is to create opportunities for the next generation to live in a more sustainable world. To secure a future for the next generation, we must create sustainable growth and development through knowledge sharing, community engagement, and understanding of our individual roles in this shared vision whilst keeping in mind our nation's vision of the future. However, the task of achieving these goals is incredible, and we will only solve global problems with global partners alongside us if the whole world — governments, institutions, and industry all make an effort together as one.

At KFUPM, we are in a unique position to help society solve specific problems, and we must maximize our role to aid others in working towards the same plan. Working with partners outside the university is a natural routine that teachers, researchers, and KFUPM students are familiar with since this is part of our global mindset. We have nurtured the best talents to build sustainable energy resources and develop technologies that will impact our daily lives. In doing so, KFUPM is seen as a vital player impacting global issues.

I would like us all to consider the individual role that we can play in this crucial plan - whether as faculty or as a student, we all must scrutinize our actions and the importance of building a new future, not only in terms of the direction KFUPM should take, but as global citizens in charge of designing a better world. In addition to KFUPM’s ongoing sustainability initiatives which align with United Nations’ 17 SDGs, I welcome more inputs on how we can build this future together.

Sincerely,

Dr. Muhammad M. Al-Saggaf

President, KFUPM