Kuwait University marks 58 years
Officials reflect on the university’s significance in Kuwait’s development
Kuwait University celebrated its 58th anniversary on Wednesday. Since its founding in 1966, the university has played a key role in the nation’s development. The university has been instrumental in shaping future generations, investing in human capital, and fostering knowledge, innovation, and scientific research to produce a skilled workforce contributing to the country’s growth and progress.
In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Acting President of Kuwait University Osama Al-Saeed expressed his pride on this occasion, offering congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti people, and the academic community.
He highlighted that the establishment of Kuwait University on November 27, 1966 marked a historic milestone in the nation’s scientific development. Since then, the university has upheld its educational philosophy and policies, inspired by the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, emphasizing the use of knowledge and human resources to serve the community while promoting academic and ethical values.
Al-Saeed also underscored the university’s essential role in nurturing national talent and preparing leaders across various fields of knowledge. Today, Kuwait University is home to 16 faculties across scientific and humanities disciplines, housed in the prominent Sabah Al-Salem University City. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the university’s continued success, advancing the educational process, and building national capabilities in alignment with Kuwait’s Vision 2035.
Mishari Al-Eifan, the Acting Secretary-General of Kuwait University, also extended his congratulations to the country’s leadership and citizens, noting that significant academic and scientific achievements have marked the university’s journey. “Since its inception, Kuwait University has been dedicated to building a well-educated and aware Kuwaiti citizen,” Al-Eifan said. “Today, we stand on the threshold of a new era, committed to meeting the challenges of a rapidly evolving world by providing an educational environment that nurtures creativity and innovation.”
Kuwait University was the first public research university in the country. Its formal opening was marked by the passing of Law No 29 of 1966, which organized higher education. The university’s first colleges were the College of Science, Arts, and Education, and the College for Women. At its inception, Kuwait University had just 418 students and 31 faculty members.
The university’s new campus, located in Sabah Al-Salem University City in Shadadiyah, has further strengthened its position as a beacon of education for the community. Spanning 6 million square meters, the campus is designed to accommodate over 40,000 students. The university’s faculties, many of which have received international design awards, seamlessly blend modernity with educational philosophy, representing both functional excellence and aesthetic appeal. — KUNA
Palestinian diplomat hails Kuwait’s efforts to end Gaza genocide
Kuwait’s role in supporting Palestine and its continuous efforts to end the genocide in Gaza is prominent and exceptional, said Palestine’s Permanent Representative to the UN Riyadh Mansour. In a statement to KUNA late Tuesday, on the sidelines of a ceremony to celebrate the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, organized by the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (CEIRP), Mansour hailed Kuwait’s support for the Palestinian cause, along with other Arab states.
He noted the joint Arab work with Algeria, as a non-permanent member in the UN Security Council (UNSC), to end the war on humanity in Gaza and reconstructing the Strip. He hoped to move to the next step in implementing the rule of the International Court of Justice, which affirmed that the Zionist occupation of Gaza is illegal and must end immediately.
The UN General Assembly issued a resolution on ending the occupation within 12 months, said Mansour, adding that the assembly called on the international community to refrain from providing the Zionist aggression force with weapons or deal with settlements, while also calling for bringing war criminals to justice, in accordance with the International Criminal Court’s order on arresting Zionist occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Palestinian representative also stressed that the only way to stop the “dangerous escalation” in the region and preserve regional and international peace and security is to resolve the Palestinian issue based on international resolutions, starting with the immediate implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2735. Mansour called for practical and decisive actions to address the risks to achieving a just and comprehensive peace based on international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative.
The international day was launched in 1977 by the UN General Assembly to support the right of Palestinians to have an independent state. It is also a reminder for the international community to exert further efforts to save the lives of Palestinian people and achieve peace and stability, the ambassador said. — KUNA
Kuwait’s fifth aid flight in Beirut with 40 tons of supplies
Kuwait’s fifth humanitarian aid flight to Lebanon arrived at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport on Wednesday, carrying 40 tons of aid supplies. The effort was organized by the Al-Salam Society for Humanitarian and Charitable Work in coordination with the Kuwaiti ministries of social affairs, foreign affairs and defense, represented by the Kuwait Air Force.
Al-Salam Society Director-General Hamad Al-Aoun expressed gratitude to official authorities and Kuwaiti donors for enabling the society’s participation in the humanitarian air bridge. Speaking to KUNA before the flight’s departure, Al-Aoun said the aid includes medical supplies for the health sector, food for displaced families, and winter essentials such as blankets and children’s items. He confirmed the society’s commitment to continuing aid efforts for Lebanon.
KUWAIT: Kuwait’s fifth humanitarian aid flight to Lebanon heads to Beirut
Al-Aoun also highlighted the society’s readiness to assist other disaster-affected countries, noting agreements with local and international charitable organizations accredited by the Kuwaiti ministry of foreign affairs. The flight was conducted in collaboration with the Balad Al-Khair Association, which shares the mission of humanitarian and relief work.
Othman Al-Thuwaini, Director-General of Balad Al-Khair Association, affirmed the organization’s dedication to supporting Lebanon under Kuwait’s humanitarian directives. He emphasized the importance of working with Lebanese authorities to meet urgent medical and food needs.
Al-Thuwaini added that Balad Al-Khair has carried out seven charitable projects in Lebanon through partnerships with recognized associations and provided in-kind contributions. The association has allocated over $200,000 to support the Lebanese people. — KUNA
Collaboration deal between Social Reform Association and Charitable Fund for Social Care Homes
- Dr. Al-Kandari: Proud of the community partnership between the Charitable Fund for the Complex of Social Care Homes and Ne'ma Charitable Organization
- Al-Omar: Building an integrated and stable society through effective cooperation between charitable associations and the state
- Al-Otaibi: A step towards localizing charitable work and supporting national humanitarian projects in Kuwait
Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care at the Ministry of Social Affairs, Dr. Jassem Al-Kandari, announced the signing of a cooperation protocol between the Charitable Fund for the Complex of Social Care Homes, Ne'ma Charitable Association, and the Social Reform Association, within the framework of the community partnership between the government sector and civil society institutions.
This was done in the presence of the board of directors of the Charitable Fund, Deputy Chairman of the Social Reform Association, Mohammed Ali Al-Omar, President of the Union of Charitable Associations and Foundations, Saad Marzouq Al-Otaibi, and the Deputy Executive Director of Ne'ma Charitable Organization, Abdulaziz Al-Kandari.
Dr. Jassem Al-Kandari stated in a press release: The partnership between the government sector and civil society institutions, including charitable associations and foundations, is one of the most important goals of sustainable development in the government's program, as it has positive effects that benefit the country and its citizens.
He added: We are proud of the community partnership between the Charitable Fund for the Complex of Social Care Homes, Ne'ma Charitable Organization, and the Social Reform Association, in support of the most vulnerable groups among the residents of the social care sector, including orphaned children, the elderly, and at-risk youth, across all levels of services, health, culture, education, and entertainment.
Dr. Al-Kandari concluded his statement praising the role of Ne'ma Charitable Organization in providing various forms of care to the residents of the social care sector, urging all charitable associations to activate the community partnership with the Charitable Fund for the Complex of Social Care Homes to support the humanitarian role that Kuwait Humanitarianism is based on in its distinguished global journey, and thanking the Social Reform Association for its social and developmental role within the state of Kuwait.
On his part, Mohammed Al-Omar, Deputy Chairman of the Social Reform Association, said: The signing of the memorandum of understanding with the Charitable Fund for Social Care Homes reaffirms our belief in the importance of enhancing cooperation in providing support and care for the residents of these homes. The agreement aims to make a qualitative leap in the level of services provided to the residents, not only by meeting their basic needs, but also by improving their quality of life and introducing structural and service developments that meet their needs.
Al-Omar explained that this partnership is in line with the vision of the Social Reform Association and its mission to support humanitarian projects inside and outside Kuwait. The agreement seeks to exchange experiences in the field of training and professional qualification to enhance the residents' opportunities in society and prepare them for greater and more effective integration. We are committed to working towards achieving each goal of this agreement and providing all necessary support to achieve a tangible and sustainable impact.
He continued: We believe that this partnership will be a model of effective cooperation between charitable associations and the state, as the concerted efforts between humanitarian organizations and government entities are the cornerstone of achieving social progress and stability. He pointed out that this agreement aims to be an exceptional step towards building an integrated society that embraces and enhances the well-being of individuals, especially the most vulnerable groups.
Saad Al-Otaibi, President of the Union of Charitable Associations and Foundations, said: This agreement represents a positive step towards localizing charitable and humanitarian work in Kuwait, where Kuwait should be at the forefront in supporting and managing national humanitarian projects that serve the community. Care homes are not just institutions for housing the needy, but centers that should aim to effectively rehabilitate and integrate residents through quality services and high standards.
Al-Otaibi added: Charity work in Kuwait is distinguished by its diversity and reach, and the role of charitable organizations represents a fundamental pillar in supporting social stability. Through these agreements, we aim to empower charitable work to fulfill its humanitarian mission, so that assistance is not just financial support, but a comprehensive system that looks at the needs of individuals, develops their skills, and helps them become self-reliant.
He emphasized that enhancing cooperation between state institutions and charitable organizations is the optimal way to achieve sustainable development, and provide services that ensure residents a dignified and safe life. We, at the Union of Charitable Societies and Endowments, appreciate this initiative, and look forward to it being a model to be followed in managing charitable projects in Kuwait.
On his part, Abdulaziz Al-Kandari, Deputy CEO of Namaa Charity, stated: Namaa is committed to providing 70% of its humanitarian services within Kuwait, and 30% outside it. This agreement comes as a qualitative addition to our efforts to support the role of care and development of its facilities, contributing to improving the lives of residents and meeting their needs better. Through this partnership, we aim to contribute to providing a suitable environment for them, enabling them to live with dignity and independence.
Al-Kandari explained that the agreement includes cooperation in various areas including financing and technical support for joint projects, providing training and qualification courses for residents in coordination with relevant authorities. Through these joint efforts, we aim to secure a stable future for residents by improving infrastructure and providing an interactive environment to effectively rehabilitate them.
He affirmed that signing this agreement reflects the spirit of cooperation between state institutions and charitable organizations in Kuwait, representing a step towards achieving sustainable social development, and providing high-quality services to the most needy groups.
Abdulaziz Al-Ajami, Director of the Associations and Charitable Foundations Department, said: This agreement is an important step to support charitable and humanitarian work within Kuwait, focusing on improving the quality of services provided to residents of social care facilities and developing the infrastructure of these facilities in line with the highest standards.
He added that the Social Reform Society represents a model of charitable work in Kuwait, and we always look forward to supporting this vital sector through multiple partnerships that serve the most needy groups. Localizing charitable work is one of our main goals, as we seek to establish development projects that contribute to improving the lives of the needy and provide care in various aspects of life, including social, educational, and health.
Al-Ajami concluded his statement by saying: Achieving localization in the field of charitable work is not just a goal, but a strategy to achieve sustainability and integrate efforts. This agreement not only serves residents, but also reinforces the charitable work system within Kuwait and lays the foundation for a supportive environment for community partnerships that lead to enhancing social welfare and solidifying human solidarity values. We strive to make this agreement a model to be emulated in managing national charitable projects.
Kuwaiti Volunteer Teams Launch Relief Missions to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan
The director of the Volunteering Department at the International Islamic Charitable Organization, Khalid Walid Al-Shuaib, announced that the volunteer teams working under the umbrella of the charitable organization are actively implementing the "Winter Clothing" project for the year 2024 under the slogan "Warm Hearts", with the aim of assisting the vulnerable groups.
Al-Shuaib said in a press statement that the volunteer team "Marayem Al-Khair" has launched a relief mission to Kazakhstan from November 22-27, 2024, to distribute winter clothing to 150 needy families, equivalent to 900 beneficiaries, with the participation of 7 Kuwaiti volunteers on the trip.
He also mentioned that the volunteer team "Khair Al-Kuwait Group" has started a similar mission to Uzbekistan, from November 25-29, 2024, to distribute winter clothing to 114 needy families, with the participation of 14 Kuwaiti volunteers.
Al-Shuaib emphasized that the charitable organization and its volunteer teams have been organizing winter relief campaigns to provide heating tools and winter clothing to those in need with limited income, especially considering the harsh weather conditions they face.
He pointed out that the charitable organization embraces 30 volunteer teams, both inside and outside Kuwait, engaged in humanitarian activities in the areas of relief, supporting the poor and needy families, with a total of 711 volunteers from Kuwait dedicated to doing good.
"Balad Al-Khair" Distributes Food Vouchers to 782 individuals in Cooperation with the Awqaf Public Authority
The charity organization "Balad Al-Khair" has announced the implementation of the "Public Food Bank" project, in cooperation with the Awqaf Public Authority, to support needy families in Kuwait by distributing prepaid cards for obtaining basic food supplies.
Osman Al-Thowaini, the director of "Balad Al-Khair", stated that the Awqaf Public Authority provided all necessary support to complete the project, aiming to support needy Kuwaiti families by distributing prepaid cards to 782 individuals, helping to alleviate their financial burdens.
Al-Thowaini mentioned that the social situation of each family benefiting from the project was studied according to public service standards, and the best offer from companies was selected to distribute the prepaid cards bearing the logo of the Awqaf Public Authority, the organization's logo, and the name of the food bank.
He added that the cards were loaded according to the number of individuals in each family, and they were valid for purchasing food items only, in accordance with the Awqaf Public Authority's terms and conditions, and were later handed over to the beneficiaries.
Al-Thowaini emphasized that in case of any emergency situation affecting the family, it should be reported to the Awqaf Public Authority for replacement nomination.
He also mentioned that the Awqaf Public Authority provided financial support for the project amounting to 27,370 Kuwaiti dinars, highlighting the fruitful cooperation between the organization and the Authority in enhancing trust in national institutions to support all charitable and volunteering activities that serve the Kuwaiti society.
In conclusion, Al-Thowaini stressed that "Balad Al-Khair" is exerting maximum effort to serve the Kuwaiti society and needy families, to support them and bring joy to their hearts, while praising the prominent role played by the Awqaf Public Authority in supporting Kuwaiti charitable institutions to fulfill their responsibilities.
"Hofath" launched the "Warm Winter" project to provide winter relief in several countries.
The Kuwaiti charity organization, "Hofath," launched the Warm Winter project to provide winter assistance to the needy in several countries, especially Gaza and northern Syria.
The Vice President of the organization's board of directors, Mr. Ahmed Al Murshid, stated that the Warm Winter project provides necessary winter relief to those in need, including winter clothing, blankets, heating materials (diesel, firewood, charcoal), and also provides food baskets including flour, oil, and basic necessities. The winter season comes every year to renew the suffering of our needy brothers who lack the means to protect children, women, and the elderly from the severe cold that freezes their extremities, causes illnesses, and threatens the lives of patients.
He added: This winter, the humanitarian suffering of our brothers in Gaza worsens due to the bombings that have forced most of the besieged population to flee after their homes were destroyed, leaving them with no choice but to stay with their children in schools or in old tents that do not protect them from the winter cold. Many of them have to take off their clothes to protect their children from the cold. We ask Allah to alleviate their suffering, have mercy on their martyrs, heal their wounded, and shelter their displaced.
Al Murshid concluded by calling on people of goodness and generosity to contribute to the "Warm Winter" project to assist their brothers in Gaza and other countries, alleviate the suffering of orphaned children, the poor, the needy families, and those in need in several countries, through donations on the Kuwaiti charity organization's website (Hofath) at hofath.org.
Al Rasikhun Association and Ibn Khaldun University collaborate on issuing academic certificates
In a move that reflects academic and scientific cooperation between educational institutions, the Al Rasikhun Association in Knowledge and Ibn Khaldun University signed a cooperation agreement aimed at issuing joint certificates bearing the logos of both parties for graduates of the "Bidayat Al-Fasihi" and "Talai'a Al-Ulamaa" programs. The agreement represents the first stage of a strategic partnership to enhance the quality of academic education and develop scientific curricula in line with international standards.
Dr. Abdullah Al Hazim, Secretary of the Al Rasikhun Association in Knowledge, stated that the agreement includes issuing accredited and joint certificates bearing the logos of the association and the university, adding an academic dimension to the graduates of the "Bidayat Al-Fasihi" and "Talai'a Al-Ulamaa" programs. It also involves developing the "Bidayat Al-Alum" publications belonging to the association to meet the needs of non-Arabic speakers, making it applicable to international academic standards. The association will also support projects to train Arabic language teachers to meet international education requirements and prepare them according to the latest educational methods.
Al Hazim explained that the agreement also includes on-site programs and educational camps, where the design of on-site programs and educational camps will be studied at Ibn Khaldun University in Istanbul, specifically for association students, providing a distinguished educational environment and high-quality academic and administrative services.
Al Hazim expressed his happiness with the signing of the agreement, saying: "Issuing joint certificates reflects our commitment to improving the efficiency of our educational programs and enhancing their outcomes to align with international academic standards. This agreement is not just a partnership, but a step towards achieving our vision of promoting education globally."
He added: "This agreement represents a new phase of joint work to develop education, as we aspire to provide advanced programs that contribute to the dissemination of knowledge and the development of capacities of both students and teachers."
On the one hand, the President of Ibn Khaldun University, Attila Arkan, pointed out the importance of this strategic partnership, saying: "The partnership between Ibn Khaldun University and the Rasikhoun Association in Science represents a model of constructive academic cooperation that enhances joint efforts in developing education and expanding its horizons.
He continued: "We believe that this agreement will contribute to achieving a deep positive impact on the educational process by providing distinguished academic programs and developing competencies, both among students and teachers. This cooperation highlights the common commitment between the two institutions to achieve educational and humanitarian goals that serve the local and international community."
Minister of Information visits Namaa Charitable Foundation's pavilion at the book fair
Abdulaziz Al-Kandari, Deputy CEO of Namaa Charitable Foundation, received the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi during his visit to the Namaa Charitable Foundation's pavilion at the 47th International Book Fair, where Al-Kandari provided a brief explanation to Minister Al-Mutairi about the distinctive publications offered by Namaa, which aim to promote the culture of charity work and spread the values of generosity and social solidarity.
Al-Kandari explained the publication "10 Years Under the Name of the Humanitarian Center," and said: Among the prominent publications displayed was the book "10 Years of Kuwait being Named a Humanitarian Center," which documents a decade of Kuwaiti humanitarian giving, showcasing the initiatives that have made Kuwait a leader in charitable work globally.
Al-Kandari also highlighted the unique book "Goodness is a Homeland," which presents the humanitarian history of Kuwait from its foundation until today, with the latest editions featuring expanded scientific material and historical images reflecting Kuwait's charitable journey, emphasizing the importance of the book in highlighting Kuwait's leadership in supporting those in need around the world.
Al-Kandari also mentioned that the pavilion includes a collection of educational children's stories such as "Zubaida," "Aroua," and "Hamoud Dreams," which aim to instill values of cooperation and helping others in the hearts of the young, building a generation that believes in giving and serving the community, pointing out that Namaa Charitable Foundation also has an edition called "Blunt Questions," which answers critical questions of a new type such as: Why do you document aid distribution? Why is there an administrative percentage of donations? And 5 explicit questions with transparent answers.
Al-Kandari commented, "Our participation in the International Book Fair is a unique opportunity to spread the message of Namaa Charitable Foundation and promote the culture of humanitarian work among different groups of society. We seek to provide content that reflects the values of generosity and social responsibility, and we believe that books are an effective way to inspire generations and educate individuals about the importance of charity work and its positive impact on communities."
Al-Kandari affirmed that Namaa Charitable Foundation's pavilion at the International Book Fair embodies Namaa's vision in promoting a culture of goodness and highlighting the humanitarian role of Kuwait, emphasizing that such events contribute to raising awareness about the importance of giving and reflect the noble humanitarian message adopted by Namaa.
