Dr Odeh Al-Jayyousi, Head of the Innovation and Technology Management Department, recently participated in the First Conference on Leadership and Innovation in Saudi Universities organised by King Abdulaziz University. Held under the theme “Idea, Invention, and Impact” the conference attracted 7,136 attendees from governmental, academic, and private sectors.

During a panel discussion on the role of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) enabling innovation in university education, Dr Al-Jayyousi addressed the question of how Saudi universities can develop a strategic policy framework that ensures GenAI prompts are transformed into innovative educational services and sustainable business models.

He highlighted the key components an innovation policy should encompass for universities adopting GenAI, showcasing AGU’s Innovation Management Programme as a regional leader in delivering innovative education in this field.

The conference featured 21 panel discussions and 16 workshops, with over 105 expert speakers exploring the latest trends in innovation and the future of entrepreneurship. The accompanying exhibition displayed 40 scientific posters and 25 research abstracts, creating a comprehensive knowledge base showcasing national talent.

Participants recommended establishing national leadership in innovation through a unified, comprehensive vision that involves active community and institutional engagement. This vision aims to build a national ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship by integrating academic and private sectors through strategic partnerships with government entities. They also affirmed the need to evaluate patents and accelerate technology transfer to boost investment in research and innovation outputs.

The university underscored the importance of establishing a national university investment fund to support innovative projects.

Participants called for the activation of innovation and applied research centres within universities to serve as key drivers for technology transfer and the development of creative solutions addressing societal and economic challenges. They also advocated for the creation of annual national awards recognising university innovation and entrepreneurship to promote excellence, competitiveness, and a culture of creativity among students and faculty. They also recommended designing and implementing specialised training programmes in creative thinking, innovation management, and entrepreneurship in collaboration with industry experts, besides integrating entrepreneurial and creative thinking into university curricula.