The final round of the 10th edition of the international Three Minute Thesis (3MT)
competition was launched for graduate students at King Abdulaziz University on
Thursday, February 12, 2026. The event was held under the patronage of the
University President, Dr. Tareef bin Youssef Alaama, and organized by the Faculty of
Human Sciences and Design at the King Fahd Medical Research Center Theater.

Prof. Nahla Mahmoud Qahwaji, Dean of the Faculty of Human Sciences and Design,
highlighted the growing prominence of this distinguished scientific initiative, noting
that over the past decade the 3MT competition has become a well-established
platform for presenting research in a concise, impactful, and inspiring manner.

She explained that the initiative was first launched by the Faculty ten years ago out of
a firm belief in empowering researchers to communicate their ideas clearly and
effectively, and to connect academic knowledge with society in accessible language.
Today, with participation from diverse faculties across the University, the competition
has evolved beyond an annual event into a campus-wide culture that strengthens
scientific communication skills and reinforces the value of rigorous, impactful
research.

Commenting on this year’s theme, “An Impact That Endures,” Prof. Qahwaji
emphasized that the true value of scientific research is not measured by the number
of pages it spans, but by its ability to inspire change, stimulate thought, and influence
reality. In just three minutes, participants present the culmination of years of
dedicated work, demonstrating that well-crafted scientific communication can create
a lasting difference.

Prof. Qahwaji extended her sincere appreciation to the University leadership for their
continued support and gracious presence, reflecting a strong commitment to
advancing scientific research and nurturing research talent. She also expressed her
deep gratitude to the organizing and training teams, as well as the scientific and
judging committees, led by Dr. Mervat Al-Maghrabi, Vice Dean of the Faculty for
Graduate Studies and Scientific Research; Dr. Areej Ba Wajeeh, Head of the

Research and Innovation Unit; and Dr. Suha Al-Fahl, General Coordinator of the
Competition, along with the dedicated team whose sincere efforts ensured the event
was presented in a manner befitting the University.

Addressing the participants, she remarked that they represent the spirit of a
research-driven university, its ambitious minds, and its scientific voice. She affirmed
that standing on the stage itself is an achievement and that every idea presented is a
seed of lasting impact, wishing the winners success in representing the University at
the national-level competition among Saudi universities.

The 3MT competition challenges graduate students to present a clear and engaging
summary of their research and its significance within three minutes, using only a
single presentation slide before a non-specialist audience. Participants are evaluated
based on clarity of content, effectiveness of communication, and overall presentation
skills. The competition aims to enhance research presentation abilities and academic
communication skills while promoting a culture of scientific excellence.

The event also featured an accompanying exhibition showcasing the achievements
of academic departments and the research outputs of faculty members and students
at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The competition concluded with an
awards ceremony honoring the top three winners in recognition of their research
excellence and academic creativity, in addition to specialized workshops in research
and innovation.

Aroob Khalid Barasheid secured first place, followed by Maha Abdullah Al-Aqeel in
second place, while Haneen Attiyah Imam achieved third place.

The Three Minute Thesis competition was first launched at King Abdulaziz University
in 2017 as an initiative of the Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, initially
involving 14 participants at the departmental level. Since 2018, the competition has
expanded to include faculties across the University, reflecting its growing institutional
impact.