AWARE

Healthy Lifestyles On Thursday 10th January 2008

On Thursday 10th January 2008 the AWARE Center hosted a "healthy Lifestyles" night. Along with a variety of health products, fitness equipment and gym info there was a special lecture by Deanne McMullen, an Australian nutritionist. Not forgetting the representatives from the Kuwait Bike club who thoroughly encouraged everyone to get a bike and join them as they bike around Kuwait on various scenic routes.

Deanne started her lecture by stating that actually most people dont know how to change their behaviour around food. Its not just a matter of saying they wont each this or that. Knowledge isnt enough. Our decisions are influences by many factors. Therefore making possible changes and making them stick is the key but it isnt easy to changes lifetime habits.
Many people have a common New Year Resolution – to loose weight. However, most have given up by the middle of January!
Deanne explained many of the common factors as to why people become over weight in the first place – sedentary lifestyle, labour saving devices, large portions, neighbourhood (here in Kuwait we dont walk much and so many restaurants, many have drive ins) and of course the ever increasing availability of fast food.
There are two main factors as to why people fail. The first is internal, inside ourselves and the second is external, our environment.
Even with understanding and knowledge you can find conflicting and wrong information. Just look at the differences in the food pyramid which is published by various countries worldwide.

Im sure everyone in the audience learnt something new or at the very least gained further encouragement to lead a healthy lifestyle. Look out for a more extensive article which will be available soon at Awares Together magazine website. www.together.com.kw

Thur 24th Jan 2008: Desert Wildlife Watching

This was the title for a fascinating lecture held recently at AWARE on Thursday 24th January 2008. Most people tend to think of the desert as a desolate area of sand where nothing or no one could reside. As well as that many people when thinking of the desert picture a desert like the Sahara which is full of blowing sand dunes. However upon arriving in Kuwait and driving out to the desert they are often disappointed to find it flat with its sand quite compact, looking less inviting or mysterious.

Yet Abdulrahman Al-Sirhans lecture proved just how wrong those assumptions are.
Kuwait is in the extreme south-eastern corner of what is known as the Western Palearctic, an avifaunal region. This causes Kuwait to have some rare birds. Abdulrahman, a Kuwaiti gentleman whose passion is to desert watch showed slides of several rare birds and described how many keen bird watchers make their way to Kuwait especially to see these rare birds.

Of course the desert also has a wide variety of other creatures who inhabit it. Various lizards, snakes, gerbils, spiders and even foxes can be found if you know where to look.

Then we mustnt forget that there is the plant life. Amazingly even with Kuwaits scorching summer heat there can be plants and flowers to be found once a few drops of rain have moistened the dry sand.
Im sure everyone in the audience was intrigued by many of the photos shown that night. Look out for a more extensive article which will be available soon at Awares Together magazine website. www.together.com.kw

You can also check out Abdulrahmans website www.alsirhan.com

Climate Change – A global overview & impact on Kuwaits marine environment.

This very interesting lecture was presented by a Kuwaiti lady, Dr. Amani Al-Zaidan at AWARE on Thursday 6th March 2008. Dr. Amani is currently an Assistant Professor at Kuwait University, which is where she gained her BSc in Zoology before studying in UK for her Masters and then a PhD in Marine Biology.

Using her power-point presentation Dr. Amani took the audience through a global overview of climate change starting with its definition – increase in the earths temperature caused by a buildup of gases, which trap solar radiation in the atmosphere. Normally some of the suns radiation bounces back but now they get trapped which is commonly called the greenhouse effect.
Greenhouse gases are those that cause more heat to be trapped. The sources of these gases are fossil fuel, diesel, deforestation and aerosols (CFCs). One of the major sources of CFCs are the coolants in refrigerators and air conditioners. These gases breakdown whats known as the ozone layer.

Dr. Amani went onto discuss in quite some detail the effects of deforestation, glacier melting, costal erosion, the marine environment, thermal pollution and all those effects particularly on Kuwait.

The last part of her lecture was practical information on what each individual can do to make a difference. The first of which is to change to using the halogen light bulbs. Although seeming expensive compared to the original type not only do they give off more light but they last 12 times longer. Another tip that everyone can do is to only boil the amount of water you actually need in the electric kettle instead of filling it to the maximum each time.
The audience certainly enjoyed the lecture and the questions at the end showed their interest in actively participating to make a difference. A more in depth article on this lecture will soon be available at AWAREs Together Online magazine. Check it out at www.together.com.kw where youll find many other cultural and topical articles as well as other information about Kuwait.

The AWARE Arabian Desert Camp all-day outing

The AWARE Arabian Desert Camp all-day outing held February 9, 2008 from 9am-4pm was an eventful day outdoors shared with more than 300 participants and AWARE staff and volunteers. Ten busses gathered at the AWARE Center in Surra early Saturday morning to escort guests 70KM South to the AWARE Desert Camp site. Upon arrival, participants were warmly greeted and served a variety of juices, tea and coffee and allowed to stretch out after an hours ride to the campsite.

Pilates and More Health Club of Kuwait was on site to warmly welcome participants to sign up for various sporting competitions including; Volleyball, Tug-o-War, Nordic Walking Desert Tour, Kuwait Desert Riddle-Rally Race and various other sporting events for adults and children.

The camp was then officially opened by the AWARE Center Staff and a Kuwaiti Cultural Band was on site to perform the Traditional Ardtha Sword Dance to the beating of the drums.

Camel, horse and pony rides were offered to all interested individuals and buggies were on site for those wanting to scout around in the desert.

A hot buffet lunch was then served to guests followed by the Kuwait Desert Riddle-Rally; a series of sporting events that led participants through a desert course and required the solving of a riddle while the clock was ticking. Children were also involved in sporting events such as water-relays and jet pilot tests.

An Arabian Cultural Tent allowed participants to try on a variety of Arab traditional clothing, learn more about the art of Sadu weavings, participate in a Kuwait Culture Quiz, experience the making of the traditional Arabic Coffee while aromas of traditional wood-smoke, known as bekour, filled the tent.

An AWARE Award Ceremony has been scheduled for February 28 at 7pm at the AWARE Center in Surra.
We invite participants from the following sports teams to claim their winning prizes at the Award Ceremony:
Teams: Tigers, T-Q, Roses, Claudine, Stars, Hercules & Safari.
Kuwait Culture Quiz Winner: Mr. Barney Smith

Many participants commented on how much they enjoyed the day and all the activities provided and were asking if AWARE would host another Desert Camp Outing soon.
We thank all who participated and look forward to welcoming you to the AWARE Center in Surra.

December 13, 2007 Lecture by Zed Al-Refai – On Top of Mt. EVEREST

The AWARE Center, an organization promoting Western-Arab relations, hosted a lecture on December 13 by Zed al-Refai, the first Arab and Kuwaiti to climb Mt Everest, which he achieved on 22nd May 2003. During an intriguing 80-minute presentation, Zed kept us on the edge of our seats as he showed a premier excerpt of a video movie of his narrow escape from death, slides of Nepal and the successful ascent during its various stages, and the equipment used for mountain climbing.

In his uniquely quiet and often humoristic way, Zed commented on each slide and explained that during expeditions climbers face great physical exertion and hardship, but there are also many mental challenges. He said that mountain climbers challenge their own abilities rather than challenging the mountain. To get to the top is not an easy task; it requires a great amount of physical strength backed by strong will.

As an example of the sort of challenge one might meet as a mountaineer, he pointed out that to cover the last 500 meters to the top of Mt Everest took him 12 hours. That is because of the low level of oxygen, 50 below zero temperatures, inability to eat or drink properly due to the altitudes effect on the body and the sheer weight of the equipment, especially the boots which alone weigh 4 kg!

Before Zed succeeded in climbing Mt Everest, he made an unsuccessful attempt that nearly cost him his life. He developed high altitude cerebral edema, or swelling of the brain. His team carried him down the mountain unconscious in an oxygen chamber and he was in a coma for four days. Zed admitted he might not have tried the second time, had he seen that video earlier…

Zed reported that nearly one in six people die trying to climb Mt Everest. That is why one should be fully prepared before going on a climbing expedition by checking the weather conditions far in advance and descending immediately should the weather worsen.

After all, there isnt a single mountain worth risking your life for.

Zed is also the first Arab to complete the Seven Summits and the 46th person in history to conquer the 7 highest summits on the seven continents, which include Kilimanjaro in Africa (5963 meters), Denali- Mount McKinley in North America (6195 meters), Elbrus in Europe (5633 meters), Aconcagua in South America (6962 meters), Carstensz Pyramid in Oceania (4884 meters), Vinson in Antarctica (4897 meters) and Everest in Asia (8,848 meters).

Zed was born and raised in Kuwait, then travelled to the US to earn a bachelor degree in Political Science from Stockton State University, New Jersey. He spent his holidays trekking in New England, the Rockies and in the North Pacific states. Its there that he acquired a passion for mountaineering. Zed currently resides in Switzerland most of the time.

For information about upcoming lectures at the AWARE Center, visit www.aware.com.kw.

Experiencing Iftar at AWARE

With the approach of Ramadan AWARE began preparing the special iftar programme. The first iftar was held on Tuesday 18^th September (6th Ramadan). Teachers from Gulf English School, American International School and Ideal Educational School attended. After arrival and a quick tour of the center by Activities Manager Iman Martin, she then spoke briefly about AWARE and its activities. The Education Manager Hassan Taha then gave a short presentation about the Wisdom of Fasting. This gave a lot of information about why Muslims fast as well as some of the benefits which hopefully dispel some myths that fasting is harmful.

Upon hearing the athan for Mughrib dates, water and leban were passed around. Whilst the Muslims present prayed Mughrib(the sunset prayer), the visitors were able to watch the AWARE events slideshow which showed many of last years activities. Then the buffet was opened. For many of these newly arrived teachers it was an opportunity to taste Arabic food as well as experience the atmosphere of breaking the fast. Before the evening came to an end Activities Manager Iman Martin gave a short cultural presentation which also was an opportunity to encourage them to look forward to AWAREs up coming Cultural course which is scheduled to start after Eid Al-Fitr in October.

The second iftar was held on Wednesday 19^th September (7^th Ramadan). This was open to everyone and a good number of people attended.

AWARE hosted a total of 6 iftars throughout the Holy month of Ramadan. The visitors, who were mostly new arrivals to Kuwait, stated that they thoroughly enjoyed the experience and were grateful for the opportunity to participate in this experience.

Welcome to Kuwait Workshops

As a special service to schools the AWARE Center contacted the foreign schools here in Kuwait to offer a cultural orientation called "Welcome to Kuwait Workshop" to their newly arrived faculty. The Orientation includes a presentation entitled "Destination Kuwait" as well as one which gives information on how to cope with culture shock. They are also informed of AWARE and our services which can give them a good introduction to Kuwaiti culture. Of course, they are also able to ask questions to our knowledgeable staff.

The first of the schools orientation visits took place on Sunday 19th August. The new teachers from American Creativity Academy came along to visit the AWARE Center. About 20 people attended. Refreshments were served in between the presentations. The newly arrived teachers were also given a tour of AWAREs facilities and many of them enjoyed dressing up in Kuwaiti dress for the first time.

Summer Film Nights

Over the course of the summer the AWARE Center has shown a variety of Films on a Wednesday night. Considering that most people join the exodus of Kuwait due to the soaring heat the film nights were well attended. Those who attended appreciated AWAREs efforts to screen culutral films and documentarries that would be hard to find elsewhere. With the start of the academic year AWAREs schedule will once again be full and varied.

Farewell Dinner

On the last Wednesday in May the AWARE Center hosted a special Farewell Dinner for our friends, some of whom are planning to leave Kuwait for good this summer. A special powerpoint presentation was given by Activities Manager, Iman Martin highlighting many of the years activities.

This was followed by a short speech from Hasan Taha, Awares Education Manager before he presented some of our active friends certificates of appreciation for their participation and promotion of AWARE. The buffet was then opened for all to enjoy while chatting with friends old and new.

Lecture:Kuwaiti women & the National Assembly 2010

A very special lecture was held at AWARE on Wednesday 23rd May. The topic was "Kuwaiti Women & the National Assembly 2010". Presented by three Kuwaiti ladies who ran as candidates for the first election to allow Kuwaiti women to vote and run for the parliament in the summer of 2006. The three ladies were Dr Loubna Al-Kazi, Dr Rola Dashti and Dr Khadija Al-Mahmeedi.

The lecture was attended by the British Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Stuart Laing. Each of the ladies covered a different topic. Dr Loubna spoke first about the history of the struggle for Womens Political Rights in Kuwait, which started back in the 1960s. Dr Rola spoke about how varied the candidates were, their different issues that they raised and the fact that they all had an impact on the election itself. Dr. Rola also spoke about the actual Election day and the high turn out of women voting. Dr. Khadija presented a questionnaire which has been used to gain statistical information. Question time was popular of course with lots of the audience having many questions for the speakers.

Lecture:Photograpghy

On Wednesday 25^th April the third lecture at AWARE during the month of April took place, which was entitled Photography – Facts & Techniques. It was held in cooperation with the Kuwait Science Club. Five of their members presented their photos as well as giving advice on how to take such good quality photos. The different pieces and variety of camera equipment was also explained as well as the different types of photographs such as landscape, portrait micro etc. The audience asked each of the presenters questions about their skills as well as where they went to take such photos especially the wildlife etc.

Lecture:Old Kuwait

The second lecture in April was entitled Old Kuwait. Pesented at the AWARE Center by a Kuwaiti, Dr Ziad Rajab on Wednesday 18^th April. Dr Ziad spoke about how Kuwait city used to be back in the early part of the 20^th Century. Explaining how and why the system of Kuwaits walls and gates came about. He also mentioned a little bit about the deep historical roots that have been found both here in Kuwait and on Failaka Island and their relevance to world history.

A photo exhibition by Tariq Rajab of 1960s Kuwait was also displayed. The exhibition was on display at the center for 2 weeks so that all our visitors could enjoy it. Many visitors were amazed to see the photos especially those showing the sea front before Gulf Street was even there.

Lecture:US Policy in the Gulf

The month of April saw three special lectures held at AWARE. The first was held on Wednesday 11^th April by an American gentleman, Dr. Andrew Terrill, who was on a short visit to Kuwait. The lecture was arranged in conjunction with the American Embassy. Dr Terrill presented the lecture entitled: "US policy in the Gulf". Such a controversial topic bought a lot of people (Westerners and Kuwaitis) to attend and listen with curiosity as to what he had to say on the subject. Afterwards there was a long Questions and Answer session as everyone wanted to express their opinion or ask a question.

Journey through the Art of Calligraphy

The lecture entitled, Journey through the Art of Calligraphy & Calligraphy Exhibition was held at AWARE Center on Wednesday 28th March. Five calligraphers attended to talk about their work and the intriguing art of Calligraphy. One of them was a German lady who is Muslim convert from Germany, she was on a short visit to Kuwait. The Calligraphers described some of the differences between the classical and modern forms. They also stated that they can tell a lot about the calligrapher such as if it was done by a man or a woman and if their left or right handed! After the lecture the calligraphers spent some time explaining the individual works on display in the exhibition. Their enthusiasim for their work made the artwork come alive. All in all a fascinating evening was enjoyed by all.

Lecture: Message of Peace

The second lecture was held on Wednesday 21^st March. This time it was given by a Romanian gentleman who was visiting Kuwait as part of his world tour. Dr Stefan Leca, a Muslim convert is on a special mission and his lecture was all about "Taking a Message of Peace around the world". So far he has visited 52 countries and he has another 40 in his plan as he goes spreading the Islamic message of Peace. The audience were intrigued to hear all about his experiences and a whole range of questions were asked. Dr Leca was very keen to answer all their questions as well as inviting everyone to see his unique jeep which he parked outside AWARE for all to view. Refreshments were served afterwards in the Bistro as usual.

Lecture: Falconry

The AWARE Center hosted three lectures in March.

The first lecture was about Falconry on Wednesday 14^th March. It was presented by two Kuwaiti gentlemen who have a vast experience and well known in the Gulf for their skills as Falconers. Using a power-point presentation they described and showed the different types of Falcons as well as which were the best hunters. They then showed two videos. The first showed Falconry in the USA and the second in the Gulf. The main purpose of showing both videos was to give the audience a clear understanding of just how different the Falcons in the two regions catch their prey. After the questions and answers the attendees were able to have their picture taken with a falcon.

Turkish Night

The AWARE Center in cooperation with the Turkish Embassy hosted a very special event on Wednesday 21st February.

In the presence of the Turkish Ambassador H.E. Sakir Fakili the Turkish evening began
with a welcome by Dr. Ibrahim AL-Adsani as well as presenting a gift of thanks to the Turkish Consul, Miss Anil Ozge Ulsan for organizing the event. She then also gave a welcome speech to the guests.

The children of the Turkish school gave a school performance of a typical Turkish wedding. A DVD of Turkey was then played while guests looked around the various tables displaying Turkish culture as well as many Turkish products. Turkish Airlines was also present.
The evening was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended which included staff from the Australian, Venezuelan, Romanian, Bosnian, South Korean & US Embassies as well as many westerners. All in all a wonderful evening was had by all.

Kuwaiti Food Fair

The Wednesday activity for the 7^th February was the Kuwaiti Food Fair. Although we have had the Middle Eastern Food Fair several times before it was the first time to present traditional Kuwaiti dishes that you would only discover by eating lunch in a Kuwaiti house. Several volunteers made their dishes and brought them. All the recipes were available as well as samples of the ingredients were on display. When the event started at 6 p.m. a large crowd entered the duwaniya eager to sample the food which was giving off a wonderful smell. Lots of interesting questions were asked especially as virtually all the dishes were completely new to the guests. By the end of the evening about 60 – 80 people had attended. They enjoyed it so much many of them stayed to look around the center and chat with staff.

The dishes that were offered were:

Shaurabat Al-Adas

Hariss

Machboos Diyay

Jerish

Al-Marqouq

Mowash

Al-Tashribah

Baharat spices

Al-Muhallabiyya

Sabb Al-Gafsha

Baythan (Almond Drink)

Lecture - Preventing Chronic Diseases

An informative lecture was given by Dr Fawzi Bouzubar, the acting Chairman of the Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Kuwait University. Dr Fawzi gained his Masters and PhD from the US. The topic for Wednesday 31st January was Preventing Chronic Diseases – a vital investment. First of all Dr Fawzi showed a short video from the World Health Organization which showed how Chronic Diseases affect rich and poor around the world. Then using a thought provoking power-point presentation Dr Fawzi explained what are considered Chronic Diseases. They are heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes. In 2005 60% of deaths were from Chronic diseases, that’s 35 million out of 58 million.

Dr Fawzi stated that those with poor diet, lack of exercise are likely to develop Chronic Disease, even more so if you smoke as well. However, 80 % of heart disease & strokes can be prevented and 95% of Blood pressure problems can be overcome with exercise.

In Kuwait last year 3,400 out of 4,700 deaths were from Chronic Diseases. Thats 72% which is higher than the world average of 60%.

The intermediate risk factors are high blood pressure, raised glucose levels, abnormal blood lipids and being overweight. All of which occur mainly due to lifestyle.

Then Dr Fawzi went on to talk about some typical lifestyle facts such as the fact that 80% of trips of less than a mile are done by car instead of walking. Most people spend many hours watching TV. Basically, these days we dont do very much physical labour. Dr Fawzi then showed us some weapons of mass destruction such as the remote control and cordless phone. These stop us from moving even if only briefly, instead we sit still, eating and sleeping.

This modern lifestyle is really affecting the youth. Here in Kuwait 70% of boys and 80% of girls are obese. Children dont play and run enough, spending more time on the play station and watching TV. With 45,000 maids in Kuwait the youth arent even encouraged to learn to clean up after themselves.

Recently the Kuwait newspaper Al Qabas conducted an opinion poll. The question was "Do you exercise?" 51% said no. All in all it was a very good and interesting lecture appreciated by all who attended with many questions being asked by the audience. Conversations continued afterwards in the bistro over refreshments.

Lecture: A wise companion: good books for peace & understanding between Western & Middle Eastern cultures

A very thought provoking lecture was held at the Aware Center on Wednesday 17^th January. Pete Kitay, a Canadian teacher at A’takamul school who earned his degree from Toronto University in Middle Eastern History and French Literature presented, A Wise Companion: good books for peace and understanding between Western and Middle Eastern cultures. First of all Pete reminded the audience why reading is so important. In these days of films, TV & satellite the unique aspect of reading is often is forgotten. Reading is essential as our own personal life experience isn’t enough, it helps to prepare us for the future as well as helpful in understanding people and different cultures. In fact the first word revealed to Prophet Mohammed from God was the word – Read stated Pete.

There are 3 things that we should understand about each book we read:

1) Its origins

2) Its values

3) Its limitations

The first book Pete discussed was The clash of Civilizations which he stated is a very controversial book but its great for starting discussions. The theme is basically Westernization v Modernization. How do you hold onto your tradition and culture yet be able to step forward into the future.

Next was the author, Ibn Khaldun who is known as the founder of sociology because of his ideas about how culture is shaped by environment. Another author that Pete highly recommends is Jared Diamond. The 2 titles in particular are Guns, Germs and Steel; fates of human societies and Collapse.

Pete warns however that most literature that’s written about the Middle East deals with politics but unfortunately forgets to deal with its geography which he feels certainly has an influence on the region.

Another influence everywhere is housing which often is a catch 22 situation because housing shortage causes conflict and conflict causes housing shortage!

British journalist Robert Flisk has written a book entitled Great War for Civilization which is also on Pete’s highly recommended list followed by Orientalism by Edward Said which describes the Wests perception of the Middle East although more of a cultural study than political.

Other books he recommended are Fall of Baghdad by John Lee Anderson, The Dust of Empire by Karl Meyer, Ghost Wars by Steve Coll, Shah of Shahs by Ryszard Kapuscinski, The Crusades through Arab eyes by Amin Maalouf , Mediterranean Winter by Robert Kaplan and Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi.

Last but not least he highly recommended the fictional story of an Egyptian family in The Cairo Trilogy by Egyptian writer Naguib Mahfouz who won the Nobel Prize for Literature.

Finally at the end of the lecture Pete encouraged the audience to discuss some of the statements hed written and given as a handout. A couple of the 16 statements were:

Westernization and Modernization cannot take place separately.

Reading is primarily something required in school or the workplace; it is not entertainment.

Discussion continued after refreshments in the Bistro.

Arab Travel Exhibition

AWAREs annual Arab travel Exhibition was held on Wednesday 29^th November. A total of 16 countries were represented. They were Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. On each table were books and information including visa requirements and suggested websites. The walls of the AWARE duwaniya were decorated with flags and maps. Visitors were encouraged to complete the travel quiz which not only tested their knowledge and provided learning opportunities but it also encouraged them to chat with the AWARE staff and volunteers about the various countries. Many of the visitors stated that they found the exhibition extremely useful as they plan to travel around the region whilst living in Kuwait and that this exhibition had thoroughly given them the taste for traveling around the Middle East. At 8.30 p.m. a draw was held to see who had won the travel quiz prize. Three of our guests were presented with a book each.

Lecture: Story of Arab Horses in Poland

The third lecture this month was a very special lecture which was organized in conjunction with the Polish Embassy as part of their "The Polish Days" Festival. The lecture entitled, "The story of Arab Horses in Poland" was presented by a visiting Polish Professor, Boguslaw R. Zagorski. Professor Zagorski is the Director of the Polish Ibn Chaldun Institute as well as the Chairman of the Polish – Arab Friendship Society.

The Professor gave a lot of historical information about the strong link between Poland and Arabia especially where the horses are concerned. The Arabian horses are truly appreciated within Poland and have been for about a thousand years. There was also time for a short half hour film documentary which detailed some the history as well as showing some more recent events involving the Arabian horses. A number of people from the Equestrian community here in Kuwait attended the lecture and were very appreciative of the Professors presentation.

Lecture:The Constitutional Crisis...

A rare opportunity to gain some insight into the Kuwaits ruling family was presented in a special lecture at AWARE on Wednesday 8^th November. The lecture was entitled, “The Constitutional Crisis after Sheikh Jabers death until Sheikh Sabah’s oath” was given by Kuwaiti journalist and author Mr Basem Al-Loughani.

To begin with Basem stated that the book that he wrote on this topic which was published 2 months ago is a chronological order of events, it is an attempt to document rather than analyze.

Sheikh Jaber died on January 15^th 2006. Upon his death the Crown Prince, Sheikh Saad (Sheikh Jaber’s cousin) became the Amir. A few years ago due to Sheikh Saad’s ill health he resigned from being Prime Minster, Sheikh Sabah (Sheikh Jaber’s brother) was appointed as Prime Minister and this was the first time the Prime Minister wasn’t also the Crown Prince.

In Kuwait’s written constitution there are 5 main points:

1) The State and system of government.

2) The fundamental constituents of Kuwaiti society.

3) Public rights and duties.

4) Powers (legislative – executive – judiciary)

5) General & transitional provisions.

It is similar to the French constitution but in the Kuwaiti style. The Parliament has power to disagree with the Amir. For example, Sheikh Jaber proposed to give women the right to vote but the Parliament rejected it.

Article 4 of the constitution covers the rules of succession which states that the Amir must be a direct descendant of Sheikh Mubarak Al-Kabir. The Amir should be chosen for his capabilities, well mannered and to be acceptable to the people. It doesn’t necessarily go from Father to son, rather who is the best person for the position.

The constitution states that when a new Amir rules he has up to 1 year to select a Crown Prince. A special council meet to discuss this wit the Amir as its head. Once chosen, the name goes to the Parliament for a vote. If Parliament reject the council choose another 2 names and then Parliament vote on the 3 names for a majority vote.

Upon sheikh Jaber’s death Sheikh Saad was called upon to become Amir however discussions began as to whether Sheikh Saad was capable to take the oath due to his state if ill health. With the public interest of the country up most the council of ministers intervened by holding discussions in a secret meeting. The Council of Ministers and the Parliament decided that Sheikh Saad wasn’t capable to take the oath by taking it to a vote, therefore Sheikh Saad was removed by the constitution and Parliament. However, they proposed that he should be known as “Father Amir”. Soon after the vote a letter of resignation was received from Sheikh Saad.

Ten days after the Sheikh Jaber’s death Sheikh Sabah took the oath to be the new Amir. He then chose Shekh Nawaf (his younger brother) to be the new Crown Prince and Sheikh Mohammed to be the new Prime Minister, keeping the separation of the two positions.

Mr Basem Al-Loughani graduated from Raligh, North Carolina in 1982 and gained his masters at the American University in Washington in 1987, both in Mass Communications. He was the first Kuwaiti to work as the Washington correspondent for Kuwait News Agency. He has also been posted in London and New Dehli. At the moment he is Director of information and PR in the Ministry of Oil. He is the author of two books in Arabic on Kuwait History and the Constitutional Crisis.

After the lecture the audience asked a number of questions and discussions continued over refreshments in the bistro.

Eid Open House

AWAREs Eid Open House was held as usual on the 3^rd day of Eid which was on 25^th October from 3 – 7 p.m. The center had been decorated to look festive and along with the band of Kuwaiti drummers the center really was in a celebration mood. Upon arrival the visitors were greeted with Arabic coffee and traditional Kuwaiti petit fours. There were vendors selling their wares in the duwaniya. It was also the location where our visitors would try on AWAREs traditional Arabic clothing, then stand on the stage for photos to be taken. Cultural films were shown in the upstairs duwaniya while for those interested in having henna design was available in the upstairs reception area. Outside on the terrace was the buffet including a lady making Saj sandwiches which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. A Kuwaiti band performed traditional songs in and around the center to everyones delight. Many of the visitors commented that it was the first time theyd ever seen a Kuwaiti band play and they seemed to thoroughly enjoy the experience, it certainly contributed to a festive atmosphere.

Iftars at AWARE

AWARE recently held a series of special iftars (breaking of the fast) during the first half of the Holy month of Ramadan. AWARE contacted many of the local Western Schools to invite their Western staff to come along and experience the braking of the fast with Muslims at the AWARE Center. Another iftar was open to all AWAREs visitors and a special iftar was organized for the staff of the Western Embassies.

Whilst waiting for the sun to set and therefore the breaking of the fast to begin the visitors were given a short power-point presentation on the Wisdom of Fasting which was presented by AWARE staff. This entailed information of the benefits of fasting as well as who is required to fast and those who are exempt from fasting. Many of the westerners who attended expressed their gratitude for this information as it gave them an opportunity to gain some understanding of why Muslims fast.

Upon hearing the Athan (call to prayer) dates, water and leban were served to everyone. The AWARE slideshow was shown whilst the buffet of typical Arabic food was opened.

After the buffet a short cultural presentation was also given. Once again, this gave the Westerners a unique insight into the local Kuwaiti culture, some of which was still new information according to some who have been here for several years, as they stated to staff afterwards.

Middle Eastern Food Fair

The AWARE Center duwaniya was packed with people who came to sample the cuisine on offer at the Middle Eastern Food Fair on Wednesday 13^th September. Welcoming new and old friends alike the staff and volunteers chatted with everyone as they cruised around the tables sampling the wide variety of delicious delights. For those who had attended previous food fairs they were met with many new dishes as well as the staple menu.

As well as the typical Homous, tablouli and warak anab (grape leaves) there was the typical Egyptian dish of fool, mashi (stuffed zucchini, grape and cabbage leaves), nakhi (chick peas), bagella (fava beans) and koushari.

Then came the deserts for those with a sweet tooth. Along with baklava and lgaimat was the well known kanafa as well as three dishes made with dates which were rangeena, tamriya and mahmool.

To wash it all down there was Arabic coffee, karkaday and jallab.

Along with all the recipes were samples of the ingredients for people to learn exactly what to look for when shopping at the supermarket.

Everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves getting to know each other as they tasted everything in sight.

Lecture: History of Diving in Kuwait

The Kuwait Diving Team is made up of a group of enthusiastic people who not only love diving but also care about Kuwaits environment. This and more was learnt by the audience who attended the AWARE Centers lecture entitled "History of Diving in Kuwait" which was held at AWARE on Wednesday 6^th September. The lecture was delivered by Mr Talal Al-Sarhan, a member of the Kuwait Diving Team.

         First he talked about the pearl diving and how after the development of the artificial pearls in the 1930s it virtually killed the real pearl market. Then he went on to talk about the 1950s when the new generation of scuba diving began..

       The Kuwait Diving Team was established in 1987. However, the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990 was an environmental disaster which gave the KDT a lot of work including rescuing many of the boats which were sunk in the marinas. They did this free of charge and Kuwait is the only country to do this for free.

       In 1992 the KDT surveyed the wrecks in Kuwait Bay and started to help rebuilt the marine environment. Having worked hard their work gained support and recognition from the United Nations. They also gained financial support from the Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah (who is now the current Amir).

     One of their environmental projects is to place artificial reefs made out of concrete blocks on the sea bed. These reef balls help to increase the species of coral etc.

    Another project is the mooring buoys. The KDT place mooring buoys to encourage boats to use them instead of sending their anchor to the sea bed which often causes damage to the coral reefs. To do this the KDT dive and using a special jack hammer attach the buoy to the sea bed in a place that doesnt harm the coral reef.

     Yet another project is to place special blocks again on the sea bed to stop fishermen causing damage when fishing for the local shrimp. These blocks damage their expensive nets so once a net has been ruined the fishermen dont approach that area again.

     Many times the KDT have been called on to perform clean up operations including removing pipes and wrecks that are damaging the ships that sail in and out of Kuwait.

    The sea wildlife is not forgotten about either. When 2 turtles got themselves into danger the KDT were called out to rescue them, which they did very successfully.

     Some of the KDT are interested in the local shark population. They study their behaviour and have shared their research with universities in Egypt and the USA. Other members of the KDT are keen underwater photographers and therefore take very interesting photos and videography which is then used to promote the KDTs work.

     The KDT has 3 main sections ;- training, operational and social. Although most of the KDT are men there are women especially in the training and social sections.

For more information visit tel: 5627515

Lecture : Applied behaviour Analysis

The latest lecture that the AWARE Center has hosted was on Wednesday 23^rd August by Mr Tony Louw entitled, "Applied Behaviour Analysis : The Science of Education and Social Development.". Having received a first class Masters degree in sociology from Glasgow University Mr Louw now works for the UK based Center for Educational Intervention in Early Childhood. The center aims to help children be capable of joining either special needs schools or preferably, if capable, the mainstream school systems.

Applied Behaviour Analysis describes behaviour as being all of our actions. Discrete human behaviour includes fantasizing, worrying, praying etc.

During the course of the lecture Mr Louw explained the key principles of the theory, which are :

1) Reinforcement

2) Extinction

3) Prompting