As part of the 2022 International Conference and Exhibition for Education (ICEE), running from May 8-11, KAUST aims to highlight its important role in conservation research related to the Red Sea and the University's role in developing young Saudi talent. The KAUST booth area features a custom-made tunnel giving attendees an underwater educational experience as well as the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge research projects at the University. An alumni panel discussion on the topic of "Explore KAUST" will also be held on Wednesday, May 11, with one of KAUST's current students included. KAUST's Strategic National Advancement division organized the booth with specific goals in mind. "We sought to attract young Saudi talent interested in working on incredible research projects that are key to achieving Vision 2030 ecological goals," commented Dr. Najah Y. Ashry, senior associate to the president & VP Strategic National Advancement at KAUST. "Our students are passionate about the Red Sea and Saudi Arabia's environment in general, and it was important to highlight that." KAUST's Strategic National Advancement (SNA) division has developed a wide array of programs dedicated to developing the next generation of researchers and scientists in the Kingdom. These programs are centered around four main areas including, developing the STEM capabilities of Saudi youth through specialized content and training, supporting Saudi youth to compete in global math and science competitions, attracting and developing the research capabilities of Saudi graduates, and empowering Saudi innovators to help solve key challenges in the Kingdom. KAUST's presence at the ICEE event will provide an excellent opportunity for KAUST to engage with the academic community and broader public across Saudi Arabia, in an effort to grow and accelerate the role of education in realizing Vision 2030 while also identifying opportunities for collaboration with other stakeholders in the education field. — SG
