"It is my distinct pleasure to extend a warm welcome to every one of you as we gather to celebrate the establishment of the groundbreaking "Materials Science and Engineering" department in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region. Since its inception in April 2021, our department has been dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive educational environment, coupled with world-class basic and applied research across numerous domains within materials science and engineering. In addition to our interdisciplinary graduate program, which equips students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental materials subjects, we are proud to introduce the region's first bachelor's degree program in materials science and engineering. This milestone reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence in education.

In today's ever-evolving landscape, where scientific and technological advancements are increasingly centered around materials, our department is poised to lead the charge. Collaborating with my esteemed colleagues, I am committed to delivering the highest quality education in materials and engineering to meet the burgeoning demands of the high-tech industry. As we embark on this journey, our focus remains steadfast on nurturing the next generation of leaders in science, technology, education, and policy. It is indeed an honor to be part of this transformative endeavor, and I look forward to the remarkable achievements that lie ahead."