KUWAIT CITY, Nov 27:  Kuwait University (KU) is celebrating its 58th anniversary on Wednesday, having played a pivotal role in Kuwait's development since its founding in 1966. The university has contributed to shaping future generations, investing in human resources, promoting knowledge and innovation, encouraging scientific research, and producing a qualified workforce to support the development of society and help achieve the nation's aspirations.

On this occasion, Dr. Osama Al-Saeed, Acting President of Kuwait University, shared his thoughts with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), stating, "I am pleased to extend my congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti people, and the university family on the occasion of the 58th anniversary of the opening of Kuwait University, which falls on November 27, 1966."

He further explained, "The opening of Kuwait University was a turning point in the history of Kuwait and its scientific development. Since then, the university has shaped its philosophy and educational policy, inspired by the words of the leader of its journey, Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah (may God have mercy on him). His vision has guided the university’s mission to benefit from knowledge and human resources to serve society, with its goals revolving around establishing the foundations of science, knowledge, and ethics."

Al-Saeed emphasized, "Kuwait University represents a major contributor to the preparation of national cadres and leaders across all fields of knowledge, enabling them to participate in advancing the country’s progress and implementing development plans. The university has received significant support and generous care from the wise leadership, which has allowed its capabilities to grow and expand, now encompassing 16 scientific and humanities colleges within the grand academic structure of Sabah Al-Salem University City."

He expressed his hopes for a "prosperous scientific future," focusing on enhancing the educational process and building national capabilities through the collective efforts of all members of Kuwait University. "Our goal is to elevate our university to the ranks of international universities, in line with Kuwait’s Vision 2035," he added.

Dr. Meshari Al-Aifan, Acting Secretary General of Kuwait University, also conveyed his congratulations in a statement to KUNA, celebrating the 58th anniversary. He said, "We proudly recall the scientific and academic achievements of Kuwait University, as its opening marked the beginning of a development process that has witnessed generations, personalities, and events that have shaped its growth and the quality of its education."

Al-Aifan continued, "The long-standing journey of Kuwait University has aimed to build an educated and aware Kuwaiti citizen. Today, we stand at the threshold of a new chapter in this journey, recognizing the importance of adapting to the challenges of the modern era. This involves providing an educational environment that nurtures creativity and innovation. The modern buildings of Kuwait University reflect the commitment of our beloved country to scientific progress, supporting our ambitious youth to embark on a new phase of scientific challenges in alignment with Kuwait’s 2035 plan."

Kuwait University is the first public research university in the State of Kuwait. The university’s opening followed the issuance of Law No. 29 of 1966, which organized higher education and led to the establishment of the College of Science, Arts, and Education, as well as the College for Girls, during the reign of the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah. At its inception, the university enrolled 418 students and had 31 faculty members.

The opening of the university campus at the Sabah Al-Salem University City in the Shaddadiya area further strengthened Kuwait University's position as a beacon of knowledge and advanced its ability to fulfill its national, scientific, and humanitarian roles. The campus covers approximately 6 million square meters and was designed to accommodate more than 40,000 students. Its creative and artistic design has earned numerous international awards, with each college standing as an architectural masterpiece, reflecting the university’s educational philosophy and academic specificity. (KUNA)