​The General Studies Department organized a workshop on 16 September for the benefit of all faculty and students entitled “The Department of General Studies: Adding Value to KFUPM Programs”, during which Prof. James Lee, Chair Professor of History and Sociology and the Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Science at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) gave the keynote address. Following welcoming remarks from GS Department Chairman Dr. Shafi Aldamer, the workshop was formally opened by H.E. Dr. Khalid Al Sultan, KFUPM Rector. The first presentation by Prof. Lee focused on his extensive experience of building the social-sciences at technical universities. As part of the presentation, Prof. Lee discussed the role of social-sciences at CAL-TECH and HKUST and the relevance of their programs to the KFUPM environment. This illuminating and well-received presentation led into a more detailed examination of the role and future of the GS Department with regard to adding additional social-science courses at KFUPM. Firstly, Dr. Mark Thompson provided a brief overview of the GS department including the courses it offers, faculty profiles and current student enrolment. Secondly, Dr. Timm Lau discussed developing a Master’s program in ‘Energy and Society’ and its relevance not only for the department and KFUPM, but also for the Kingdom. Finally, Dr. Ahmed Bendania looked at a prospective undergraduate multidisciplinary social-science minor and how this would benefit KFUPM undergraduates. The presentations were followed by an insightful and productive question and answer session; one that provided useful feedback for the GS department.