​King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) participated in the 6th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) conference, held in Riyadh October 25–27, 2022, alongside distinguished institutions and thought leaders from around the world, from CEOs and policymakers to investors and entrepreneurs, under the theme, "Investing in Humanity: Enabling a New Global Order."

A leader of research excellence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, KAUST attended this international forum as an FII "Knowledge Partner" — an expression of the commitment of both KAUST and the FII Institute to develop scientific research and make knowledge accessible to everyone. The KAUST pavilion at FII is a showcase of innovative research and sustainability-focused startups developed at the University.

A leader of research excellence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, KAUST attended this international forum as an FII "Knowledge Partner" — an expression of the commitment of both KAUST and the FII Institute to develop scientific research and make knowledge accessible to everyone. The KAUST pavilion at FII is a showcase of innovative research and sustainability-focused startups developed at the University.

KAUST provides the framework and expertise needed for innovation, entrepreneurship and impact through its state-of-the-art facilities, cross-disciplinary centers, expert faculty, investment in deep-tech startups, and partnerships and exchange with the world's finest minds. Its research focus extends to areas of national and global impact such as smart health, artificial intelligence, food and water security, marine conservation, and climate change.

President Chan added, "In support of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals, KAUST's technical solutions and research innovations attract investors from around the world. KAUST is a startup incubator in the nation, providing facilities needed for research and development, funding and entrepreneurial support to transfer our research to the market in innovative ways."

KAUST President Tony Chan brings focus to the topic, The Future of Education, in conversation with participants at FII 2022; Photo: KAUST

KAUST leaders participating at FII engaged in event activities such as lectures, seminars and dialogue sessions. President Chan moderated a conversation on "The Future of Education." Associate director of the KAUST Clean Combustion Research Center, Dr. Mani Sarathy, professor of chemical and biological engineering, participated in a lecture supported by KAUST titled, "The Hydrogen economy: solution or illusion?"

Sarathy said, "Saudi Arabia will become a global leader in the Green Hydrogen Economy by implementing progressive energy policy, giga-scale investments, and a transformative socio-political framework that democratizes the energy landscape."

KAUST Professor of Chemistry Kuo-Wei Huang mentioned in his talk, "KAUST is pioneering the development of formic acid as a net-zero hydrogen energy carrier for enabling the large-scale implementation of low-carbon energy production to reduce the environmental footprint of modern society."

KAUST Professor of Chemistry Kuo-Wei Huang talks about net-zero hydrogen energy applications in a talk at FII 2022; Photo: KAUST

Professor Chan concluded: "We are particularly proud of these sustainability-related projects that aim to address the most prominent challenges facing the Kingdom and the world."