In its continuous commitment to creating a competitive academic environment conducive to innovative research in the field of graduate studies, the College of Graduate Studies at Kuwait University organized the first edition of the “Three-Minute Thesis (3MT)” competition. The event took place on Thursday morning, April 24, 2025, at the Conference Center Hall in Sabah Al-Salem University City, under the patronage of KU President Prof. Dina Al-Mailem, represented by Acting Vice President for Planning Prof. Osama Al-Omair.
Supervised by Acting Dean of the College of Graduate Studies Prof. Ahmad Abdullah Al-Mukhial, Acting Vice Dean for Academic Affairs Prof. Meshari Khalifa Al-Eifan, and Acting Vice Dean for Planning and Development Dr. Mohammad Raif Al-Samawi, the competition was held in the presence of deans, university leaders, and members of the graduate studies community.
Originating from the University of Queensland, Australia, the 3MT competition aims to empower graduate students to present their thesis research and its significance clearly and effectively to a non-specialist audience, using simple and concise language—all within three minutes. It’s a unique experience that enhances communication skills, promotes creativity, and showcases scientific research. The competition is held annually in more than 900 academic institutions across 85 countries worldwide.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Ahmad Al-Mukhial stated:
"If the undergraduate level is considered the peak of the educational pyramid, then graduate studies undoubtedly form its pinnacle—its crown—reflecting the quality and level of education through research and theses, which are among the most important indicators of a university’s academic stature. Graduate students are the strongest indicator of a university's standing, representing human development, future progress, and the sustainability of civilization. Scientific research is deeply intertwined with graduate studies, forming the central pillar of scientific and technological advancement, addressing society’s challenges—technical, economic, health, educational, and social—through solutions and knowledge enrichment at both local and global levels through publications, conferences, and active initiatives.”
He added that this event was inspired by Kuwait University’s participation in the regional Gulf 3MT competition hosted by Qatar University in November. Driven by a continuous pursuit to foster a competitive academic environment, the College adopted this competition to enhance the quality of research and promote excellence among students for the first time.
Dr. Mohammad Raif Al-Samawi, General Supervisor of the Office of Consulting and Training and Acting Vice Dean for Planning and Development, stated:
"It’s an honor to be with you today at this milestone event—the first edition of the ‘Three-Minute Thesis’ (3MT) competition at Kuwait University, a platform that merges scientific research with communication and creativity. The College of Graduate Studies is proud to sponsor this initiative, not just as a competition, but as a celebration of the graduate research spirit, which embodies deep thinking and knowledge dissemination. For over 40 years, the College has been a beacon of academic excellence at Kuwait University, thanks to the efforts of its leaders, faculty, and staff who have supported generations of graduate students."
He expressed sincere gratitude to the college administration, the Public Relations team, and all college staff who contributed their time and effort to make the event successful. He also praised the participating students for their courage, dedication, and confidence in showcasing not only their academic specialties but also their communication and presentation skills. He highlighted the vital role of academic supervisors in guiding students’ accomplishments.
During the event, a commemorative shield was presented to Prof. Osama Al-Omair on behalf of KU President Prof. Dina Al-Mailem in recognition of her sponsorship. The judging panel for the 3MT competition was also honored and included:
•    Prof. Khaled Jaber Al-Fadhalah (Mechanical Engineering Department and Graduate Studies Council Member)
•    Prof. Mashael Al-Hamli (Director of the MA and PhD Translation Programs, College of Arts)
•    Prof. Suzanne Al-Bustan (Chair of the Science Field Committee)
•    Dr. Heba Al-Husseini (Chair of the Medical Field Committee)
The College of Graduate Studies recognized the winners of the top three positions based on the judges' evaluations:
1st Place:
Jarrah Al-Kathimi – College of Engineering and Petroleum – Electrical Engineering
Research Title: Optimizing the performance of Kesterite solar cells through multiple configurations and parameters using SCAPS-1D
2nd Place:
Reem Okasha – College of Engineering and Petroleum – Electrical Engineering
Research Title: Resource Allocation for Alamouti STBC-Based NOMA Networks
3rd Place:
Lulwa Al-Reshaid – College of Education – Curriculum & Teaching Methods
Research Title: Spaced Repetition and Retrieval Practice Effect Using Anki on Fifth Grade EFL Students' Vocabulary Retention
The event concluded with Prof. Meshari Khalifa Al-Eifan engaging the contestants in a Q&A session about their experience, what they learned, and their advice to fellow graduate students.