​The University of Jordan (UJ) President, Prof. Nathir Obeidat, represented the university in the Times Higher Education MENA Universities Summit 2023 hosted by New York University Abu Dhabi from November 13 to 15.

In his address during the event, Obeidat emphasized that strengthening partnerships with businesses helps bridge the gap between academic and research products and the needs of the local, regional, and global markets and communities.

He pointed out that the university, in its new strategic plan, aims not only to enhance partnerships with the private sector but also to increase the impact of scientific research and educational programs, creating new directions to promote values of love, ethics, civic responsibility, transparency, and incorporating them into these programs and activities.

Obeidat discussed how educational institutions in the region work on increasing their presence among the world's leading universities through international collaboration, partnerships, commitment, and investment in research and scientific output in peer-reviewed journals listed in global databases.

He presented a case study on best practices in supporting research capabilities by the public and private sectors, the impact of national policies, industrial partnerships, and formal and informal alliances with institutions focusing on maximizing research output and increasing its impact. This includes expanding university connections and networks in this sector and attracting funding and investment.

The summit, themed "Innovation in Times of Change," addresses the contribution of universities to sustainability and the impact of artificial intelligence on education. It emphasizes the crucial role of the higher education sector in supporting the goals of the COP conference.