The University of Jordan (UJ) inaugurated the AI Week conference under the patronage of University President Prof. Nathir Obeidat, marking the largest event of its kind in Jordan.
The gathering was organized by the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (CIS) student branch in partnership with the King Abdullah II School of Information Technology (KASIT) and the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, under the theme “Learn. Build. Connect. Explore.”
The event brought together UJ vice presidents, academics, industry leaders, and students from across the Kingdom to explore AI applications, strengthen academia-industry collaboration, and empower youth to transform ideas into innovation.
In his keynote address, Obeidat described AI as the engine of a technological revolution that raises profound ethical questions while opening vast horizons for discovery. He announced that UJ is preparing to launch new programs in quantum physics and quantum computing, positioning the university at the forefront of science and technology.
He stressed that the convergence of AI and quantum computing will achieve in years what once took centuries and called on Arab universities to invest in research that serves industry, agriculture, medicine, and the humanities.
Dean of KASIT, Prof. Basel Mahafzah, highlighted UJ’s guidelines for the responsible use of AI in education, research, and administration.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Director, Dr. Reem Al-Fayez, said the event’s theme reflects UJ’s vision of linking education with innovation, and praised the efforts of IEEE CIS students.
Branch Advisor, Dr. Ali Al-Rawdan, pointed to the rise of agentic AI—systems capable of planning, executing, and interacting with digital environments.
Former Minister Dr. Maen Al-Qatamin discussed AI’s role in redefining entrepreneurship, while Associate Professor at the School of Business, Dr. Mutaz M. Al-Debei, addressed analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and emerging technologies as tools for enhancing competitiveness.
A highlight of the program was the recognition of IEEE CIS UJ as the Best CIS Student Branch Worldwide, placing both Jordan and UJ on the global AI map. The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Humans and AI: Partners or Competitors?” along with exhibitions, hackathon showcases, and sponsor recognition—led by platinum partner ProgressSoft, represented by Mahmoud Kurdi.