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KAUST and Nesma Holding celebrate inauguration of Thuwal Embroidery Center

Apr 21, 2019 News

HRH Prince Badr bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz (center), the deputy governor of Makkah Region, visited the University's campus on April 18 to celebrate the inauguration of the Thuwal Embroidery Center. The center results from a strategic partnership between KAUST and Nesma Holding. KAUST President Tony Chan (left) also took part in the event. File photo.

KAUST and Nesma Holding celebrated the inauguration of the Thuwal Embroidery Center on April 18 under the patronage of HRH Prince Badr bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, the deputy governor of Makkah Region.

The center results from a strategic partnership and mutual collaboration between the two entities aiming to create opportunities for women in the community of Thuwal, with the women aspiring to be productive members of society and follow a rewarding career path.

KAUST and Nesma Holding agreed to create the center to serve and enhance the standard of living in Thuwal and neighboring villages as part of the two organizations' commitment to social responsibility.

The Thuwal Embroidery Center exemplifies KAUST's goals of finding job opportunities for the people of Thuwal and creating prosperity in the community.

HRH Prince Badr bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz (center), the deputy governor of Makkah Region, examines embroidery samples from the Thuwal Embroidery Center on April 18. The center is the result of a joint collaboration between KAUST and Nesma Holding. File photo.

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"At KAUST, we are committed to giving back to Thuwal by enhancing the lives of the local community," stated Dr. Tony Chan, KAUST president. "We strive to contribute to creating job opportunities and empowering the women of Thuwal. The Thuwal Embroidery Center is a living example of how our strategic partnerships and social responsibility go hand in hand."

"We're delighted that the agreement signed by Nesma and KAUST has become a reality and that 50 women from Thuwal and neighboring villages can now reap the benefits of meaningful employment," said Noura Saleh Alturki, vice president, Nesma Holding.

KAUST faculty showcased their research during the visit of HRH Prince Badr bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz (center), the deputy governor of Makkah Region, to the University's campus on April 18. The event celebrated the inauguration of the Thuwal Embroidery Center. KAUST President Tony Chan (second from right) and Dr. Najah Ashry (first on right), senior associate to the president of KAUST and KAUST vice president, Strategic National Advancement, also took part in the event. File photo.

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In its early stages, the center will be run by 50 female employees who specialize in sewing and embroidery and management, storage and logistics. It will produce polo shirts and uniforms and custom-made designed embroidery for KAUST and other corporate and individual clients. While working there, the women will develop their skills and progress their careers while being supported with transport, childcare and education assistance.

"One of the best ways to improve local economies is to empower people," said Dr. Najah Ashry, senior associate to the president of KAUST and KAUST vice president, Strategic National Advancement. "The Thuwal Embroidery Center is a primary example of KAUST's many efforts to support our neighbors and drive economic growth. The center addresses a local industry need while providing sustainable career and development opportunities for women who want to contribute to society. In this inspiring time of renewed national energy and commitment to development, we invest in local individuals and communities to ensure they are able to fully participate and thrive."

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