By Zayed Alzyoud
Jordan Esports Federation President HRH Prince Omar bin Faisal on Monday inaugurated the Zain Esports and Game Development Academy at the University of Jordan (UJ). The move marks a significant step toward advancing Jordan’s digital and creative landscape.
The academy is the result of a strategic partnership between UJ, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, and Zain Jordan. The project aligns with Jordan’s Economic Modernisation Vision, which identifies gaming and esports as key pillars of the national creative economy.
Designed as a high-tech training and competition hub, the facility will host both university-level and local esports tournaments. It offers specialized professional programs in game development, digital content production, live streaming, and event management. Additionally, students will be linked to the Zain Innovation Campus (ZINC) network, providing them with direct access to mentors and startup support. The facility is also equipped with industry-standard professional gear, ensuring students receive the hands-on technical training needed to compete globally.
UJ President Prof. Nathir Obeidat emphasized that the academy bridges the gap between academic theory and practical skills. "It is about preparing our students for the emerging career paths of the digital economy," he noted.
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Secretary General Samira Al-Zoubi said the project is a core part of the 2023–2027 national esports and gaming strategy. She highlighted the ministry's goal of establishing specialized centers across universities to grow the sector’s talent pool.
For its part, Zain Jordan reaffirmed its commitment to the youth and digital innovation, building on its support for the esports scene since 2020. The company provided the high-speed connectivity and technical infrastructure required to maintain a world-class training environment.
The academy is expected to produce a new generation of professional players, developers, and creators, strengthening Jordan’s position within the international esports ecosystem.