Riyadh Hosts The Inaugural 2025 NASPAA Regional Conference On Public Policy Education

The King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) School of Public Policy (KSPP) is hosting the 2025 Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) Regional Conference. This event marks a significant milestone as it is the first NASPAA conference held in Saudi Arabia. NASPAA is a global leader in public service education, with over 320 member institutions offering degrees in public administration and related fields.

The conference has attracted distinguished scholars, senior policymakers, and experts from around the world. They are gathering to discuss the future of public policy education, institutional innovation, human capital development, sustainability, and decision-making. The agenda includes dialogue seminars and sessions focusing on governance challenges, technology policy, sustainability, and capacity building.

KAPSARC President Fahad Alajlan highlighted the conference's role in shaping a new model for public service. He stated, "Let us use this conference to challenge conventional wisdom, champion new voices, and construct a truly visionary model of public service – one rooted in ethics, collaboration, and, above all, results." His remarks set the tone for discussions aimed at redefining public service education.

Dr. Ghadah Alarifi, Dean of KAPSARC School of Public Policy, emphasized the importance of academic dialogue in shaping future public policy professionals. She noted that the event provides a unique opportunity to bridge theory and practice by fostering collaboration between educators and policymakers.

NASPAA President Dr. Mohamad Alkadry expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for hosting this year's event. He praised the launch of the conference and highlighted the importance of NASPAA's partnership with KSPP. "This collaboration is vital to advancing the quality and reach of public policy education across the region," said Alkadry.

He further stated that NASPAA is committed to supporting academic institutions in Saudi Arabia as they prepare leaders for complex policy environments. This commitment aligns with Vision 2030's goals to enhance Saudi Arabia's role as an intellectual hub for public policy discourse.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This inaugural regional gathering underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing stature as an intellectual hub for public policy discourse. It aligns with Vision 2030’s goals by highlighting cross-border collaboration's increasing value in building resilient academic ecosystems and designing impactful policy frameworks.

The conference features speakers from over 24 countries who will explore key challenges and opportunities in governance and capacity building. This international participation reflects the global interest in advancing public policy education through collaborative efforts.

With inputs from SPA