The International Forum on Developing University Education Programmes in Arab Countries in Light of Future Skills and Professions has convened, organised by Arabian Gulf University (AGU) in collaboration with the UNESCO Regional Centre for Quality and Excellence in Education (RCQE). The forum gathered a distinguished group of Arab and international experts and academics with the objective of formulating shared visions for advancing university education across Arab nations and to establish modern frameworks aligned with the skills and competencies needed for future economies. It also witnessed the announcement of a joint chair between AGU and UNESCO-RCQE.

The forum was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Dr Mohamed bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Higher Education Council. In his opening address, he underscored the significance of this international gathering which serves as a vital platform for exchanging experiences and discussing the latest trends in higher education development.

The Minister explained that such meetings offer an invaluable opportunity for universities and educational institutions to develop innovative visions and strategies that enhance the quality of education, ensuring it meets future needs. These efforts are essential for fostering students’ abilities in lifelong learning, innovation, and problem-solving, thereby qualifying them to contribute effectively to their societies’ sustainable development. The Minister also stressed the importance of regional and international cooperation, leveraging best practices and expertise to advance scientific research, curriculum development, and academic programmes. This will cultivate a generation equipped with the knowledge and skills to tackle contemporary challenges and build a promising future for the region.

For his part, His Excellency Dr Saad bin Saud Al Fuhaid, President of AGU, expressed profound gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their generous patronage and ongoing support. He also extended heartfelt thanks to the leaders of GCC countries for their support and commitment to higher education, reaffirming their belief that knowledge is the cornerstone of sustainable development and civilizational progress.

This comprehensive Arab event, he stated, reflects a deep understanding of higher education’s vital role in human development as a platform to address one of the most pressing issues of our time: the capacity of higher education institutions to anticipate future trends and adapt to rapid changes in the labour market with all the opportunities and challenges It poses to upcoming generations.

Meanwhile, Dr Abdulrahman Al-Medaires, Director-General of the UNESCO-RCQE, highlighted the importance of aligning university programmes with future skills and evolving labour market demands. In his remarks, he stated, "This international gathering brings together a select group of decision-makers and experts from across the Arab world to activate the framework for developing university education programmes in light of future skills and professions. This framework was adopted by the 19th Conference of Arab Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research held in Abu Dhabi in 2024. Together, we aim to chart a shared roadmap to strengthen the future of higher education in our region."

The opening session, moderated by Dr Abdulrahman Al-Medaires, featured high-level participation from Arab Ministers of Higher Education. Discussions centred on the future of university education in the Arab world, strategies for aligning academic programmes with labour market needs, the role of regional frameworks in supporting higher education advancement, and the importance of scientific research, digital transformation, modern skills, and AI in enhancing educational quality.

Participants addressed key questions regarding future policies, funding challenges, youth empowerment, technological integration in higher education, and expanding opportunities for students to acquire future-ready skills. The discussion reviewed the model university of the future, showcasing Arab experiences in modernising academic curricula, which included practical workshops on sustainability, soft skills, and innovation in university programmes.

An accompanying exhibition showcased the latest initiatives from sixteen universities across various countries, highlighting advancements in higher education and links to future skills and professions. The exhibition facilitated experience exchange and fostered connections among Arab and international academic institutions, emphasising innovative practices. The event coincided with the announcement of the joint chair between the university and the centre, supporting the formulation of modern visions for university education that meet the demands of future economies.