Since its establishment in 1975, King Faisal University (KFU) has grown to become a beacon of higher education locally and regionally. Located in Al-Ahsa, one of the largest oasis globally, and near the largest oil facilities in the world, KFU has a strategic advantage to serve the local and national economy of Saudi Arabia. Aided by the current Saudi strategic plan Vision 2030, KFU is poised to move toward a better and brighter future to achieve its ultimate goals: “A vibrant society, A thriving economy, and An ambitious nation”.
KFU provides broad-based higher education to more than 38900 resident students and 20000 distance-education students. The KFU colleges offer undergraduate and graduate programs in natural science, health science, agricultural science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. There are over 2000 faculty members at KFU, half of whom are recruited internationally and all our faculty members enroll in frequent development programs covering a wide range of matters relevant to their job.
Scientific research is another pillar of KFU mission that receives worthwhile emphasis and support. KFU provides multiple funding channels to its researchers and has numerous research centers for high-relevance fields to local and national priorities. Research productivity of KFU, both in terms of publications and citations, has grown considerably in the past few years and is expected to grow further as the university continues its emphasis and research support.
KFU also prides itself on the extensive range of services and support it provides to the community, emphasising life-long learning and continuing education. Moreover, KFU students are encouraged and rewarded for participating in volunteer programs that serve the community and help shape the students’ personalities and skills.
With an eye toward a brighter future, KFU launched in 2019 its institutional identity: contributing to the achievement of Food Security & Environmental Sustainability in the Kingdom. The theme of the identity is very relevant to strategic domains in Saudi Arabia and the strengths of KFU. KFU has also launched its strategy 2020-2024. The strategy mission, vision, goals, and values will guide lights to KFU and bring focus and clarity to the institution's future. One of the key features of the strategic.
According to the strategy a new sector focusing on “Innovation and Business Development” was established, which will help KFU explore new horizons and engage in contemporary national and international partnerships. The strategic plan was also the catalyst for the implementation of a new organization structure for KFU, which will help it in achieving its mission.
Finally, KFU is proud of its people; students, faculty members, and staff, on whom we entirely depend and believe. Their contributions, coupled with the impressive campus facilities and resources provided through generous government support, will lead us to our motto: University and Homeland Growth and Sustainability.
Dr. Mohammad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali
