Project-Based Learning (PBL) Center
Learning in Action. Impact in Practice.
About the PBL Center
The Project-Based Learning (PBL) Center supports experiential learning at AU by connecting academic knowledge with real-world projects. Built on three pillars (students, faculty, and community), the Center enables learners to develop practical skills through collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving while addressing engineering, societal, and sustainability challenges.
Project-Based Learning is a core part of AU’s educational approach. The PBL Center is based in the College of Engineering and serves students and faculty across the university.
Dr. Jean Henri El Achkar
Manager, Project-Based Learning Center
Associate Professor of Petroleum Engineering, College of Engineering
j.achkar@au.edu.kwMission
- 01Support the development of Project-Based Learning at AU.
- 02Provide an effective PBL environment for students.
- 03Support faculty in PBL implementation.
- 04Encourage projects that address industry and community challenges.
- 05Promote Project-Based Learning at AU and beyond.
Objectives
- Implement and continuously enhance PBL practices at AU.
- Advance a PBL model adapted to the GCC context.
- Train and mentor PBL facilitators.
- Support innovation and sustainability-focused solutions.
- Connect education with real-world challenges through collaboration with industry.
PBL at AU
Our PBL approach
Project-Based Learning at AU connects academic learning with real-world challenges. Students apply knowledge through collaborative projects involving problem-solving, design, experimentation, modeling, innovation, and sustainability-oriented solutions.
How PBL works
- Learn through real projects and practical challenges.
- Work collaboratively in teams.
- Apply technical knowledge to develop and evaluate solutions.
- Strengthen problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and professional skills.
- Engage with industry, community, and sustainability challenges.
PBL in action
Students applying engineering knowledge through collaborative projects, experimentation, design, modeling, and prototype development.
Student achievements
PBL students at AU have demonstrated their skills and innovation through participation in national, regional, and international competitions and professional events.
First Place and Golden Award at the SPE Kuwait Oil & Gas Show (KOGS) 2026
An AU team supervised by Dr. Rida Elgaddafi won First Place and the Golden Award in the Young Professionals Competition at the Kuwait Oil & Gas Show (KOGS) 2026, held in Kuwait in February 2026.
Second Place at the GPCA Carbon Neutrality Cup 2025
At the 2025 Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Carbon Neutrality Cup in Bahrain, two AU undergraduate teams were selected among the five finalists in the undergraduate category.
- Second PlaceThe team supervised by Dr. Jean Henri El Achkar won with a CO2 capture simulation project for refinery decarbonization.
- Final fiveThe team supervised by Dr. Rana Malhas reached the final five with a waste-tire valorization project for oil-spill and oily-water remediation.
Industry and external engagement
The PBL Center strengthens connections between academic learning, industry, and the wider community through collaborations, external engagement, and opportunities for applied learning.
Green Carbon
Engagement with Green Carbon focused on opportunities for industry-based student projects, project supervision, technical visits, and knowledge exchange.
Dar Al Shaheen Consultants
Collaboration with Dar Al Shaheen Consultants focuses on real industry challenges for student projects, joint academic–industry supervision, and field-based learning opportunities.
Want to partner with the PBL Center?
Email us to discuss student projects, technical visits, or joint supervision.
Events and activities
The PBL Center organizes and supports activities that strengthen project-based learning, student development, faculty engagement, and experiential learning at AU.
Growing Minds and Hearts Through PBL: Faculty Workshop
Dr. Fajer Bin Rashed led an interdisciplinary faculty workshop exploring the integration of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) within Project-Based Learning, with a focus on reflection, teamwork, communication, and student development.
PBL Reflective Learning Initiative: Faculty Launch Workshop
The PBL Center introduced the PBL Student Reflective Booklet and its implementation framework to faculty. The booklet supports the integration of structured reflection and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) practices across PBL courses in the College of Engineering.
E-Cycle Universities Kuwait Initiative: Launch
Dr. Jean Henri El Achkar represented Australian University at the launch of the E-Cycle Universities Kuwait initiative with the Environment Public Authority (EPA). He highlighted AU’s approach to Project-Based Learning and its role in connecting sustainability education with student action and real-world environmental challenges.
Media and publications
Explore publications, media, and communication materials highlighting the activities and impact of the PBL Center.
PBL Center Brochure
Learn more about the Center’s mission, objectives, and role in supporting Project-Based Learning at AU.
Download the brochure (PDF)Contact
Project-Based Learning (PBL) Center
Australian University, West Mishref, Mubarak Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber Area, Block 5, Al Aqsa Mosque Street, Gate 1
Manager
Dr. Jean Henri El Achkar