MIT LEAPS Course in KSA

In January 2026 MIT and Academy32 collaborated to offer the LEAdership and Professional Strategies & Skills (LEAPS) course in Saudi Arabia for the first time.

MIT Physics Professor Anna Frebel and Adjunct Professor Diane Rigos taught the course alongside current and former Ibn Khaldun Fellows: Dr. Eman Alnabati, Dr. Hend Alrasheed, Dr. Maryam Alsharqi, and Dr. Mnerh Alqahtani.

Dr. Frebel & Dr. Rigos have offered the award-winning graduate and postdoc program at MIT since 2020. Created by scientists for scientists, LEAPS teaches the human skills, including self-awareness, communication, negotiation, and leadership, that shape careers but are rarely found in research training. Delivery was rooted in the Kingdom’s values of collaboration, collective responsibility, and excellence, in direct alignment with Vision 2030’s commitment to empowering the next generation of Saudi talent.

Please see below some testimonials from a few of the participants regarding their first experience with LEAPS:

  1. "The most valuable thing I gained from this course was developing a strong foundation in self-awareness and communication early in my career. The frameworks and tools were practical, applicable, and immediately relevant to real workplace situations."
  2. "I particularly appreciated the engaging teaching style and the quality of discussions, which created a thoughtful and supportive learning community. While the course was intensive and physically demanding at times, its depth and structure made it a highly impactful learning experience."
  3. "The program is amazing. We have learned a lot. We have applied some of the techniques and they work."

After what can only be considered a resounding success, those involved with bringing LEAPS to Saudi Arabia are excited to continue the program's reach and growth!

Pictured here are Dr. Hend Alrasheed, Dr. Mnerh Alqatani, and Professor Anna Frebel with LEAPS participants!
Dr. Mnerh Alqatani presenting during LEAPS.
Notes of thanks from those taking part of LEAPS in Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Maryam Alsharqi addressing LEAPS participants during Week 2 of the program
Diane Rigos addressing LEAPS participants