The 2016 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) starts with a huge array of events from internationally renowned speakers to one-of-a-kind interactive experiences and recreational events. Here’s a selection of just a few of the must-see events for the first week of WEP. Come along, meet with experts, learn and enjoy yourself!
The Next Generation of Superconductors
A Keynote Lecture by Dr. Suchitra Sebastian
Monday, January 11
7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Auditorium, Building 20
L’Oreal UNESCO Women in Science Fellow Dr. Sebastian will discuss her work towards finding novel superconductors that operate at accessible temperature, dramatically increasing their technological applications.
How Can Global Oil & Gas Industry Survive the Next 85 Years?
A Keynote Lecture by Dr. Helge Haldorsen
Tuesday, January 12
7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Auditorium, Building 20
Join Statoil Mexico’s Director General as he looks at the longterm global outlook for energy and discusses the gradual global switch from oil and gas to other energy sources.
Climate Change Through the Eyes of a Polar Explorer
A Keynote Lecture by Vijay Shah
Wednesday, January 13
7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Auditorium, Building 20
Explorer, filmmaker and aeronautical engineer Vijay Shah has guided expeditions for the British Exploring Society, solo climbed in the Andes and opened up a new route traversing the remote Penny Ice Cap on Arctic Canada’s Baffin Island, facing temperatures of -60℃. Join him as he shares his firsthand experience of how climate change is affecting the world.
On the Trail of the Glaciers
An Interactive Experience
Opening ceremony – Monday, January 11
4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Multipurpose Room 2418, Building 1
Walk through time and witness glaciers retreating with this remarkable and unique interactive art piece from Fabiano Ventura and Paolo Scoppola using current and historical polar photography.
Conduct Us!
Thursday, January 14
5:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Discovery Square Multipurpose Room
This is your chance to conduct the community orchestra! No experience is required and all ages are welcome.
Farmer’s Market: Farm to Fork
January 14 to 16
4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Discovery Square
Buy from the market and enjoy fresh fare for dinner later that night! The KAUST Farmers Market will feature locally sourced produce, nuts, seeds, honey, and fresh fish for purchase. Don’t forget to stop by for BBQ and delicious juices by Coastline.
WEP 2016 Film Festival
January 14 to 16
Special Opening screening of Interstellar with Kip Thorne
Thursday, January 14 from 5:15 to 6:00 p.m.
Discovery Cinema and Auditorium, building 20
WEP 2016 is proud to host a range of films exploring the themes of climate change and sustainability. From documentaries to Hollywood blockbusters, our movie program is full of informative, entertaining, inspiring and thought-provoking stories about our planet and future. Several films on our program also feature audience discussions with leading scientific experts.
WEP 2016 Fun Run
Friday, January 15
Harbor Sports Club
This is fitness at its best! Everyone in the community can take part by either running for fun, walking with friends or even racing to win. Don’t worry if you don’t want to race, the biggest achievement is taking part. There are prizes for winners and best costume, and bouncy castles will be available for the whole family to enjoy this event!
WEP 2016 Golf Tournament
January 11 to 15
Safaa Golf Club
Love golf? This year we have two separate events you can take part in: an eighteen hole putting tournament (January 11 to 15) and the WEP trophy (Friday, January 15). Have fun and win prizes! Register this week at Safaa Golf Club Reception desk.
This selection is only scratching the surface of this year’s first week. You can learn more about all our events and register by visiting wep.acadox.com.
We’ll see you at the events!
Be sure to like our Facebook page and check The Lens every day during WEP for daily event information.
The Enrichment team
WEP 2016 would not be possible without the help of our principal sponsors Saudi Aramco and Sabic, with additional support from Saudi Oger. We thank them for their support. We would also like to thank the KAUST Industry Collaboration Program (KICP) for their support in presenting our cocktail reception.