By Zayed Alzyoud
The University of Jordan (UJ), through the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (IEC), has launched the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Awards for faculty members, in cooperation with the Deanship of Scientific Research and the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching.
Attending the launch ceremony were Vice President for Quality & Local Accreditation Prof. Amira Masri, alongside a number of deans, center directors, and faculty members.
The initiative aligns with UJ’s strategy to strengthen its innovation ecosystem, promote entrepreneurial thinking across academic practice, and enhance quality in both teaching and research.
Two University-approved awards were announced. The Excellence in Innovative Teaching Award recognises faculty members who adopt effective, technology-enhanced teaching approaches, including the purposeful use of digital tools, interactive learning design, and evidence-based teaching practices.
The Impactful Applied Research Award honours applied, solution-oriented research with measurable impact in communities and key sectors, including industry and the environment. Eligible work includes implemented solutions, validated prototypes, technology transfer, commercialisable applications, or structured partnerships with external stakeholders.
Representatives of the participating units outlined the submission and evaluation process, noting that selection will consider originality, demonstrated impact, feasibility and readiness for implementation, sustainability, scalability, and the strength of collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
Speakers said the awards are designed to strengthen teaching and research performance, embed a University-wide culture of innovation, and align academic work with community needs and national development priorities.
Each award includes a certificate and a cash prize of 1,000 Jordanian dinars (JOD), funded by IEC. Winners will also be featured on UJ’s official platforms and highlighted in University events and knowledge-sharing workshops.
The ceremony concluded with IEC reaffirming its commitment to expanding innovation programmes that reinforce UJ’s role in education, scientific research, and academic entrepreneurship.