Composed: Zayed AlZyoud

Edited: Suha Alsubaih

In the season finale of Mulhem Podcast’s first season, produced by the Media and Public Relations Unit at the University of Jordan (UJ), Prof. Khaled Touqan, one of Jordan’s most influential figures in science, education, and national policy, shared thoughtful reflections on a career defined by academic leadership, scientific advancement, and national service.

Born in Amman in 1954, Touqan earned his bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the American University of Beirut. He later pursued graduate studies in Nuclear Engineering at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This academic journey laid the foundation for decades of meaningful contributions to research, institution-building, and public service.

Throughout his distinguished career, Touqan held several prominent positions, including Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at UJ, Founding President of Al-Balqa Applied University, Minister of Education, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources. He currently serves as Chairman of the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission and Director of the SESAME Center in Allan. Despite his extensive responsibilities in public office, he remained deeply engaged in scientific research, collaborating with leading institutions such as Argonne National Laboratory in the United States and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany.

During the podcast, Touqan spoke with sincere appreciation for the University of Jordan, describing it as the cornerstone of higher education in the country. He recalled how the School of Engineering provided crucial support during the early establishment of Al-Balqa Applied University, assisting in the development of laboratories and classrooms. He emphasised the university’s role in shaping generations of scholars and professionals, noting that it had played a vital part in his development as a researcher and educator.

One of the most compelling moments in the episode was his reflection on launching the Jordan Education Initiative during his tenure as Minister of Education. With the direct support of His Majesty King Abdullah II, the initiative brought modern technology into Jordanian classrooms and forged partnerships with international education leaders. He also highlighted the impact of the Education Reform for the Knowledge Economy project, which contributed to improved student performance in international benchmarks such as TIMSS. Touqan stressed that the King followed the project’s progress closely, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to education as a national priority.

Turning to the future of energy in Jordan, Touqan expressed confidence in the country’s progress in the nuclear field. He affirmed that Jordan has embraced the nuclear age, with research reactors and laboratories operated by highly trained Jordanian professionals. He also revealed that the country is close to announcing a set of international partnerships focused on uranium extraction, calling it a strategic step forward that will soon yield results.

As the conversation came to a close, Touqan offered heartfelt advice to young Jordanians pursuing careers in science and leadership. He urged them to remain curious, stay grounded, and take pride in their identity, reminding them that Jordan has the talent and determination to achieve greatness. All that is needed, he said, is confidence in the nation’s potential and a strong belief in one’s ability to contribute.

More than a personal account, Touqan’s feature on Mulhem Podcast served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when vision, education, and dedication come together. His journey is one of perseverance and purpose, and an invitation to the next generation to carry the torch forward.