By Sherouq Sadeqi
WASHINGTON, Oct 14 (KUNA) -- Director General of the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), Dr. Adnan Shihab-Eldin was awarded the 2017 Elise and Walter A. Haas International Award during a ceremony held at University of California (UC), Berkeley.
The award was given in recognition of his "enduring passion to build up the modern higher education and scientific research system for Kuwait and the Arab world." In a statement to KUNA, Berkeley said that Dr. Shihab-Eldin "embodies the illustrious, innovative spirit of UC Berkeley alums who have so definitively exhibited a deep and distinguished record of global service." It affirmed that Dr. Shihab-Eldin "is a foremost expert on energy technology, economics, and the environment and his countless contributions toward the greater good continue to inspire us." "It is an honor to count Dr. Shihab-Eldin as an alum, and we'd like to add our applause to the many as Dr. Shihab-Eldin is presented with this award, one he so richly deserves," it added.
Dr. Shihab-Eldin graduated Phi Beta Kappa from UC Berkeley with a B.S in Electrical Engineering and a master's and Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering.
The Elise and Walter A. Haas International Award honors an alumnus who is a native, citizen, and resident of another country and who has "a distinguished record of service to that country in the arts, science and engineering, education, business, environmental protection, government, or any other field." Dr. Shihab-Eldin is also recognized "as a visionary leader in the field of energy globally, well respected by energy ministries and heads of state throughout the energy-producing world," where his contributions to Kuwait "exemplify Berkley's highest values." Also, his contributions "have not only helped to facilitate and advance Kuwait's scientific and innovation ecosystem, but has also strengthened solid foundations for research and development in the wider Middle East region." On his part, Dr. Shihab-Eldin thanked "all those that have been a part of this journey" with him.
He expressed his gratitude "to the leadership of my country, Kuwait, for the generous support and opportunities I received throughout my education and career." "Finally, my gratitude goes to the University community at large and all the people that continue to carry its legacy to inspire others to make a difference," he added.
He noted that the most valuable lesson "one learns from studying, working and living in Berkeley, is not only to strive to excel academically and professionally, but also to give back, and contribute to the betterment of our individual societies and the global community; in essence, pass on the Berkeley legacy that was embodied within each of us." (end) si.gta