OUTREACH

At KAUST Urban Lab, outreach and service are integral to our identity. We believe in the power of reciprocal partnerships between academia and society—where ideas, knowledge, and impact flow in both directions. Through sustained engagement with universities, professional communities, industry leaders, and the broader public, we aim to bridge the gap between research and real-world action.

Our outreach programs are designed to extend the impact of our work beyond campus walls, fostering environmental awareness, promoting sustainability education, and contributing to policy and practice. From committee leadership and academic service to public seminars, industry roundtables, and K–12 community programs, we remain deeply committed to creating meaningful and lasting connections that help shape a more sustainable and resilient future for all.

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Service to the Community

At the heart of KAUST Urban Lab’s outreach is the personal commitment of Prof. Sami G. Al-Ghamdi to advancing sustainability through education, mentorship, and meaningful public engagement. His direct involvement in designing and leading initiatives for K–12 students, educators, and community members has helped shape a culture of sustainability and awareness. These efforts focus on translating high-level research into accessible learning experiences for youth and the broader community.

 

Service to the Profession

Prof. Sami G. Al-Ghamdi is deeply committed to advancing the fields of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) through both academic leadership and professional engagement. His work bridges research and practice by fostering collaboration, facilitating knowledge exchange, and contributing to national and international standards of sustainability. Through organizing conferences, reviewing academic papers, contributing to editorial boards, and sustaining professional affiliations, Prof. Al-Ghamdi plays an active role in shaping the global discourse on sustainable development

 

University Service and Engagement

Our contributions to KAUST extend far beyond research. We actively participate in shaping the university's academic and administrative frameworks by serving on critical committees and task forces. These roles reflect our commitment to building a strong institutional foundation for sustainable education and research excellence. At the program, division, and university levels, Prof. Sami G. Al-Ghamdi has contributed to curriculum development, quality assurance, student admissions, and public engagement efforts. Whether through the Learning and Curriculum Committee, the Graduate Program Committee, or national and international recruitment campaigns, we work to align KAUST’s mission with best practices in sustainability and academic leadership. Through these efforts, we aim to strengthen the university's impact both locally and globally, fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement.

Frontiers for Young Minds

Urban Lab collaborates with Frontiers for Young Minds to make urban sustainability research accessible to young audiences. By simplifying complex topics, we help inspire the next generation to explore science and solutions for future cities.

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