UAE To Host Conference Of Arab Ministers On Higher Education And Scientific Research In November 2024

The UAE will host the 19th Conference of Arab Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research. This event is organised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in collaboration with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (ALECSO). Scheduled for 27-28 November 2024, it will be held at Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas.

The conference will gather high-level delegations led by ministers from Arab nations. Participants include representatives from regional and international education organisations, leaders from local higher education institutions, and education experts. The theme is ‘A Flexible Higher Education System Adapts to Rapid Global Developments’. Discussions aim to develop policies for enhancing higher education and scientific research across the Arab world.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, emphasised the UAE's educational prominence regionally and globally. He noted that hosting this event aligns with the nation's focus on education as a key national priority. It aims to build competencies capable of leading sustainable development projects that enhance societal well-being.

Dr. Al Awar stated that the conference will be an interactive platform for sharing expertise in higher education among Arab countries. It will help authorities shape future educational systems based on international best practices, addressing developmental needs in the region. He highlighted the importance of cooperation among Arab nations to develop flexible policies that improve educational institutions' efficiency.

During the conference, Dr. Al Awar plans to showcase the UAE's pioneering efforts in advancing its higher education system. The focus is on improving quality by aligning academic programmes with economic needs and job market requirements. Collaboration with ALECSO aims to transform visions into practical initiatives meeting Arab populations' aspirations.

Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar, Director-General of ALECSO, praised the UAE's commitment to strengthening joint Arab action in higher education. He highlighted its exemplary initiatives promoting digital transformation, quality assurance, and governance as part of its pioneering experience in this field.

ALECSO's Role

Dr. Ould Amar explained that ALECSO organises this conference to combine national efforts in higher education across Arab countries. The goal is to achieve national development objectives while fulfilling regional and international commitments like the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The conference will also release the ‘Abu Dhabi Declaration’ aimed at advancing Arab higher education systems. This declaration seeks to create a new strategic horizon for higher education aligned with contemporary expectations for the next century.

The event underscores ALECSO's quest for effective partnerships within the Arab world to enhance educational systems' competitiveness globally.

With inputs from WAM