Sultan Al-Sughair Saudi Gazette DHAHRAN — King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) is to work with two international universities in research, it was announced on Sunday. In its fifth board meeting for this academic year, chaired by KFUPM Rector Khaled Bin Saleh Al-Sultan and attended by a number of university officials, the university approved two agreements to conduct research with the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and University of Zaragoza in Spain. Saeed Bin M. Al-Amoudi, board secretary and dean of academic development, said several topics were discussed at the meeting and appropriate decisions taken. Al-Amoudi said: "Research aspects such as conducting studies and developmental research on catalysts, catalytic processes for petrochemicals, polymer and oil refining will be covered as part of these agreements." Al-Amoudi stressed the importance of such research for both sides, who will collaborate under the supervision of professors from the departments of chemistry and chemical engineering at Caltech and a research team consisting of faculty members and students from the departments of chemistry and chemical engineering, in addition to researchers from KFUPM's Center of Research Excellence for Oil Refining and Petrochemicals. Discussing the agreement between KFUPM and Zaragoza University, Al-Amoudi said: "It aims mainly at developing heterogeneous catalytic techniques regarding rhodium and iridium compounds that are used in polymerization processes, converting carbon dioxide, and hydro-treating to remove sulfur. “This collaboration will enhance the educational and research capabilities of both sides.” He also stated the board has approved granting degrees to graduates who completed the graduation requirements of the first semester for the current academic year at Hafr Al-Batin colleges, and pointed out that the board also approved granting degrees to candidates for graduation at the end of the second semester for the same year. Al-Amoudi said the board discussed other topics including modifying the executive rules and regulations governing Saudi faculty members, accepting donations offered by Saudi Aramco, Maaden and Saudi Arabian Chevron Co., in addition to some staff promotions. The university started its annual career fair, which will run until May 1. The career day is organized under the support of Eastern Province Emir Prince Saud Bin Naif. Companies and institutions were invited to participate and display work and training opportunities available to university students to demonstrate their activities and get to know the university's various majors.
