​Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, inaugurated the conference hall and the lecture theater of the Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II School of Political Science and International Studies at the University of Jordan (UJ) on Monday in presence of president, Prof. Nathir Obeidat.

Obeidat briefed Huneiti about the university's history, developments, academic programs, and strategic plan to become a leading international and applied institution in innovation, research, and community service.

He emphasized the importance of higher education in equipping Jordanian youth to meet the evolving demands of the local and global job markets, aligning with their aspirations. He also highlighted the need to strengthen collaboration and leverage expertise between the armed forces and UJ.

"The Supreme Commander envisioned our armed forces combining military expertise with modern sciences. This vision has enabled the armed forces to integrate military sciences with other fields and focus on military training, ensuring a modern army equipped with both knowledge and weapons," he stated. "His Majesty King Abdullah II has strengthened our military institution by introducing advanced technologies to keep pace with the latest global developments," Obeidat affirmed.

Obeidat expressed pride in the university's partnership with the armed forces, particularly in establishing the Cybersecurity Center at the university. This center serves as a modern training hub through joint programs between the university and the military.

Brigadier General Mustafa Hiyari, Director of Military Media, noted: "Since its inception, the armed forces have contributed significantly to Jordan's developmental projects, recognizing their vital role in national advancement. This includes educational, technological, and security projects, such as providing cybersecurity solutions to safeguard national security and creating new opportunities for Jordanian youth. The establishment of the Cyber Shield Academy under the Jordan Design and Development Bureau (JODDB) at the University of Jordan is a prime example. This collaboration has led to the launch of a diploma program in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, along with the training of students and academic staff, who are certified as instructors at the academy."

Dean of the Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II School of Political Science and International Studies, Prof. Hassan Momani said that UJ has always been a hub for development, growth, and education, a mission greatly supported by the Jordanian Armed Forces. "Their assistance has played a key role in building vital pillars of this nation under the Hashemite leadership, "he stated.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, attended by senior military officers, university vice presidents, and members of the Deans' Council, the army chief wrote a note in the guestbook.

In a related visit, Maj. Gen. Huneiti toured the "Cyber Shield" Academy and was briefed by the academy's director on its cybersecurity services, achievements, and initiatives since its establishment in 2019.

The academy aims to unify efforts between the business and academic sectors to create new opportunities for Jordanian youth, address regional and global challenges, and establish strategic partnerships between JODDB and universities to advance the field of cybersecurity.