Diwan engages from the start

June 9, 2011

AOC celebrated the advent of its newest publication, Diwan, on June 9 with the Company’s managing director, Nabil Al-Dabal, cutting the magazine-shaped cake at our London office. The student magazine is aimed at Saudi Aramco-sponsored students in the United Kingdom and Europe, and two of the student contributors were present at the event.

“It has exceeded my expectations,” said Aqeel Al-Naser, a Manchester University student undertaking an advanced degree in computer science. “Now all we need is an iPad version!” he added laughingly.

Meanwhile, geophysics student Marwa Al-Khalaf was impressed with the layout and content of the magazine: “What I like most is the presentation of the material, which makes it fun to read. The fact that it was written by students to students made the magazine’s vibe more lively and enjoyable,” she added, with the Leicester University student taking several copies to distribute.  

The magazine, created by AOC Public Relations, has secured a key interview with Saudi Aramco President and CEO Khalid Al-Falih, as well as featuring profiles on students across the Company’s degree program and highlighting the Research & Development Center, features that will continue in subsequent issues.

Also spotlighted are outreach events that students have participated in, information on keeping safe at all times and a photography competition that encourages students to show their individuality.

“Diwan will be a key means of communicating with our Company-sponsored students, and I look forward to reading many more stories on student achievements and experiences,” said Al-Dabal. He added that the magazine’s move to a digital platform from the next issue was an exciting one and sure to engage the students even further. “We appreciate that we live in a technological age and, as such, need to be able to connect with our readers in a manner they appreciate and prefer.”

Diwan will be issued on a biannual basis, with a print version available for those who choose this option. The online version will provide added features and functionality not available via the more traditional print format. Further information on the e-magazine will be provided over the coming months.

By Kimberly Johans