KAUST Hosts Times Higher Education World Academic Summit 2025 Focusing On Universities As Agents Of Change

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) recently hosted the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit 2025. This marked the first time the summit was held in the Middle East. The three-day event, which began on Tuesday, attracted 750 participants, including 105 keynote speakers from 75 institutions across 28 countries. The theme was "Universities as Agents of Change."

The summit gathered university presidents, decision-makers, industry leaders, and academics worldwide. Discussions centred on how universities can drive innovation and economic growth while promoting sustainability and cultural preservation. Strengthening global collaboration was also a key focus. Participants explored how universities can evolve to tackle shared global challenges.

Speakers at the summit presented research-based solutions addressing real-world needs. Topics included developing sustainable cities, innovations in health and artificial intelligence, and essential skills for students to build a sustainable future. The role of universities in creating resilient cities was also highlighted.

KAUST President Sir Edward Byrne emphasised Saudi Arabia’s leadership in science and innovation during his opening remarks. He stated that hosting this significant event in the Middle East underscores KAUST’s role as a model for impactful universities. Byrne noted that the summit offers a platform to collaborate with global partners to shape higher education's future.

Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at Times Higher Education, remarked on the importance of the summit in addressing current challenges and opportunities for universities. He highlighted KAUST’s mission-driven role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s research, development, and innovation priorities under Vision 2030.

Baty further explained that these priorities cover various fields such as health and well-being, environmental sustainability, energy leadership, industry advancements, and future economies. The summit provided an opportunity for influential voices in higher education to discuss these critical areas.

The event successfully showcased how universities can act as catalysts for change by fostering innovation and collaboration globally. It reinforced KAUST's commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's strategic goals while contributing to global academic discourse.

With inputs from SPA