Arab Ministers Of Higher Education Conclude Conference With Adoption Of Abu Dhabi Declaration

The 19th Conference of Arab Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research has wrapped up in Abu Dhabi. Organised by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research with ALECSO, the event focused on adapting higher education to global changes. Attendees included Arab ministers and experts from various academic institutions worldwide.

During the conference, Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, engaged in bilateral meetings with other ministers and delegation leaders. These discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation between countries in higher education and scientific research. Agreements were signed with Jordan, Tunisia, and Iraq to strengthen these ties.

A significant outcome was the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration. This document outlines a strategic framework for advancing higher education and scientific research in Arab nations. It stresses joint efforts aligned with sustainable development goals, focusing on creating sustainability-oriented academic programmes and fostering innovative research.

Dr. Al Awar highlighted that the declaration is "a pivotal milestone in advancing Arab integration in higher education and scientific research." He added that it represents a shared vision for an educational future that supports knowledge-based economies while adapting to global changes.

Over two days, experts discussed strategies for developing flexible higher education policies to tackle future challenges like technological and economic shifts. Sessions reviewed key documents and regional projects using advanced technologies such as blockchain for qualifications recognition.

The conference also highlighted activating the ALECSO Fund for Scientific Research, Leadership, and Innovation. The Common Arab Qualifications Framework was discussed to standardise academic recognition across Arab countries.

Sharing Experiences and Best Practices

Participating countries shared pioneering experiences in higher education, focusing on curriculum development to meet labour market needs. They also emphasised fostering innovation and achieving excellence in scientific research according to global standards.

This exchange facilitated sharing expertise and best practices, strengthening joint efforts to advance higher education across the Arab world. Key recommendations included launching regional projects to improve scientific research infrastructure.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

The ministers adopted recommendations for developing educational policies positioning higher education as a driver for sustainable development. It was announced that Iraq would host the 20th session, underscoring collective commitment to expanding cooperation in this vital sector.

The closing events featured the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Distinguished Academic Performance, recognising leading institutions in the region. Delegations were also invited on a cultural tour of Abu Dhabi, adding cultural richness to this significant gathering.

With inputs from WAM