KUWAIT: Kuwait University celebrated its 58th anniversary on Wednesday, having played a key role in the nation’s development since its founding in 1966. 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 that contributes 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 the university’s journey has been marked by significant academic and scientific achievements. "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