Shortlist
We are delighted to announce this year's shortlisted institutions across our ten categories. Click on 'Show more' for details about an institution's submission.
8
International Strategy of the Year
Al-Ahliyya Amman University
Submission title or project name
Navigating blue oceans: AAU’s strategic international leap
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Sari Ahmad Hamdan; Dr Fayrouz Abusweilem; Reem Abed Manar Hamdan; Eman Altally; Khaled Alzoubi
Project URL
Abridged submission
Al-Ahliyya Amman University (AAU) has adopted the “Blue ocean strategy” to drive global innovation, inclusivity and sustainable development. By pioneering novel educational offerings and fostering a vibrant learning environment, AAU successfully attracts a diverse community of students and faculty from around the world. To date, the university has forged partnerships with 25 international institutions, facilitating academic exchange programmes and offering graduates competitive employment opportunities overseas. AAU’s commitment to global engagement is reflected in its improved international rankings position, alignment with the United Nations’ SDGs, and active student participation in global challenges. A 45 per cent surge in internationally co-authored research underscores this expanding academic impact. Targeted marketing at prominent education fairs has driven a 63 per cent rise in international enrolment. New programmes in dentistry, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, designed in response to labour market needs, now account for 40 per cent of tuition revenue, reinforcing AAU’s financial growth.
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Al-Quds University
Submission title or project name
Passport-free Palestine – cross-border virtual education
Nominee or key personnel
Ahmed Nada
Abridged submission
“Passport-free Palestine” is a bold virtual mobility initiative by Al-Quds University that allows Palestinian students to participate in real-time, credit-bearing courses offered by partner universities around the world – without needing to leave the country. Designed by the International Relations Office, the programme overcomes geopolitical restrictions on student travel by offering synchronised virtual classes, shared assessments and cross-cultural engagement with peers from Europe, Asia and the Americas. To date, more than 80 students have completed 14 international courses, gaining global academic experience from within Palestine.
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Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport
Submission title or project name
Capacity building and skills development in Africa
Nominee or key personnel
Office of Admission and Registration; International Office
Abridged submission
The Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AAST) has built a strong international strategy focused on meaningful partnerships, global outreach and innovation. Through collaborations with institutions such as the Tanzania Ports Authority, Nigerian maritime organisations, Djibouti’s port sector and Sudanese universities, AAST has expanded its expertise in maritime, logistics and healthcare education. This global engagement has boosted AAST’s reputation, attracting international students, enhancing financial sustainability and securing prestigious accreditations. The academy’s adaptability allows it to navigate policy shifts, leverage technology and stay ahead in a changing world. With a focus on real-world impact, AAST continues to develop a strong brand, foster industry-driven learning and create seamless digital connections with partners worldwide. More than just an expansion effort, AAST’s international strategy represents a commitment to shaping the future of education through collaboration, innovation and excellence in maritime, logistics and beyond.
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Khalifa University
Submission title or project name
Khalifa University’s institutional strategy and partnerships
Abridged submission
Khalifa University has adopted a strategic, results-driven approach to internationalisation, aligning global partnerships with academic excellence, research innovation and student development. Building on strong foundations in North America, the UK and Europe, the university has expanded its global reach to central and east Asia, forming collaborations with leading institutions such as Tsinghua University, the University of Tokyo and the Technical University of Munich. These partnerships have led to joint degree programmes, research laboratories and innovation centres in critical fields including artificial intelligence, aerospace, energy, and public policy. Industry collaborations with global companies such as Lockheed Martin and Thales provide students with hands-on experience while advancing applied research. Khalifa’s initiatives also include cooperative education programmes with international universities and the launch of the region’s first Polar Research Centre. The university’s growing global reputation is reflected in enhanced academic offerings and research leadership.
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King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
Submission title or project name
KFUPM’s strategic internationalisation journey
Nominee or key personnel
KFUPM Global Engagement
Project URL
Abridged submission
In 2024, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) launched a comprehensive global engagement strategy to elevate its international presence through focused efforts in partnerships, mobility and global visibility. The university signed more than 10 selective, high-impact agreements, including memoranda of understanding and student exchange partnerships with globally recognised institutions aligned with its academic and research priorities. KFUPM hosted more than 40 international university delegations and engaged with over 15 ambassadors in Saudi Arabia to explore and establish new collaborations. Outbound student mobility exceeded 260 participants, while inbound interest surged, with more than 600 international applications for semester-long and short-term study opportunities. Faculty mobility was strengthened through two flagship initiatives: the Ibn Sina Global Scholarship and Ibn Battuta Fellowships. Additionally, KFUPM participated in leading international conferences and expanded its digital reach by more than 40 per cent. This integrated global strategy is positioning KFUPM as a forward-looking institution driving research, innovation and global academic exchange.
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King Faisal University
Submission title or project name
From innovation to global influence: KFU’s patent ecosystem strategy
Nominee or key personnel
King Faisal University
Abridged submission
King Faisal University’s patent ecosystem initiative represents a transformative international strategy that has elevated the university to global prominence in innovation and intellectual property. In 2024, KFU ranked first globally in the number of US utility patents granted (631), surpassing world-renowned institutions. This achievement reflects a comprehensive international strategy built on fostering global partnerships, enhancing research commercialisation and promoting cross-border collaboration. Through its patent ecosystem, the university supports inventors with legal, technical and commercialisation guidance, while cultivating alliances with patent offices, investors and industries worldwide. The initiative has positioned KFU as a trusted innovation hub, opened new avenues for international funding, and increased its attractiveness to global faculty and researchers. This initiative is a cornerstone of KFU’s institutional strategy to expand international influence through impactful innovation.
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Kurdistan Technical Institute
Abridged submission
The Kurdistan Technical Institute (KTI) established its centre of excellence (CoE) through a landmark partnership with I-Education (UK), delivering UK-accredited programmes and professional development in Kurdistan. This five-year renewable joint venture empowers KTI to align local education with global standards, offering innovative, job-ready training and digital learning. The centre of excellence has significantly boosted student enrolment, industry engagement and institutional revenue, positioning KTI as a regional leader in internationally recognised vocational education. With a curriculum co-developed by UK experts and real-time digital platforms enabling cross-border delivery, the centre responds to evolving workforce needs with adaptable, employer-driven programmes. This transformative initiative exemplifies effective international strategy and sustainable collaboration.
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Palestine Ahliya University
Submission title or project name
Bridging borders through knowledge: the Arab Council for Academic Exchange
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Imad Al-Zeer (president of the council and president, Palestine Ahliya University); Professor Amr Ezzat Salama (secretary general, Association of Arab Universities); Dr Ahmed Abdou (general manager of the council); Mohannad Rezeq (technical manager); Odna Abu Damoos (communication and outreach manager)
Project URL
Abridged submission
In recent years, Arab universities have faced growing challenges in building effective cross-border academic collaboration. Despite shared linguistic and cultural ties, institutional fragmentation, lack of structured mobility frameworks, and resource disparities have hindered integrated academic growth. In response, Palestine Ahliya University launched the Arab Council for Academic Exchange in 2024 to bridge these gaps through a unified platform for exchanging academics, researchers and administrators across Arab universities. The council is the first regional initiative to systematise academic and administrative exchange within a centralised digital framework focused on equity and sustainability. Despite challenges such as policy discrepancies and financial constraints among member institutions, the council implemented unified tools, technical support and pilot funding mechanisms. In its first year, it engaged 21 universities from 11 countries, facilitating 74 exchanges that led to joint research proposals, course development and institutional improvements. The council aims to expand, launch a fellowship programme and issue annual impact reports.
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8
Leadership and Management Team of the Year
Ajman University
Submission title or project name
Senior Leadership Team Propels Ajman University to Soaring Excellence, Influence, and Impact
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Karim Seghir; Dr Khaled Assaleh; Dr Abdulhaq Al-Nuaimi; Dr Mustahsan Mir; Rabi Al Khofash
Abridged submission
AU’s transformation from historic to pioneering began in 2017 with a new Chancellor's arrival and a new Cabinet's formation. They established a “stakeholder compass” for purpose-driven and evidence-based excellence globally. Energized by an ambitious Strategic Plan and a new “Make It Happen” motto, AU went from unrealized potential to global recognition.
In eight years, AU achieved 19 international accreditations for programs from prestigious accrediting bodies and debuted in THE 2025 World University Rankings among the top 401-500 institutions. AU is also the first private, non-profit university in the Arab region to receive international accreditation from WSCUC in USA.
How exactly did leadership make it happen?
• Tracking accountability and alignment
• Data-driven decision-making
• Investments in professional development and teamwork
• Increasing research and innovation capacity
• Fostering social impact and inclusion
Today, AU is a regional leader in social impact, youth empowerment, and transformational change.
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Al-Quds University
Submission title or project name
Leading against the odds – strategic leadership and institutional resilience at Al-Quds University
Nominee or key personnel
Ahmed Nada
Abridged submission
In one of the most complex geopolitical contexts in the world, the senior leadership of Al-Quds University has redefined what effective university governance means. Through visionary planning, cross-functional integration and community-centred innovation, the leadership team has led institutional transformation across digital education, financial sustainability, internationalisation and student equity. From launching Palestine’s first university-based sustainability road map to pioneering virtual global classrooms and expanding outreach to marginalised communities, the senior team has steered the university towards inclusive excellence. This is a story of leadership in not just management, but also in mission.
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An-Najah National University
Submission title or project name
RISE Team (Research, Innovation, Sustainability and Excellence)
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Waleed Sweileh (dean of scientific research); Dr Nidal Dwaikat (vice-president for planning, development and quality); Dr Abdulsalam Khayyat (vice-president for academic affairs); Professor Abdelhaleem Khader (director of interdisciplinary research); Alaa Yassin (chair of university ranking division); Fadia Hashaikeh (chair of international research projects); Lubna Kino (IT specialist)
Abridged submission
An-Najah National University’s RISE Team (Research, Innovation, Sustainability and Excellence) exemplifies transformational leadership, visionary strategy and global ambition. Established in 2020, RISE has redefined institutional excellence by doubling research output, advancing interdisciplinary innovation, embedding sustainability across all operations, and launching pioneering start-ups that deliver real-world impact. Through bold initiatives such as the Innovation Park, the Technology Transfer Office, the Interdisciplinary Research Unit and the Sustainability Office, RISE forged a model in which academic achievement, entrepreneurship and societal responsibility converge. Its leadership has propelled An-Najah’s ascent in international rankings, including the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings and Arab University Rankings. By fostering global partnerships and aligning research with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, RISE has future-proofed the university’s growth. Today, the RISE Team stands as a beacon of innovation, resilience and excellence – positioning An-Najah as a transformative force reshaping the future of higher education across the Arab world and beyond.
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Benha National University
Submission title or project name
Benha National University: model of leadership governance, transparency and sustainable development
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Doaa Akl (dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration)
Abridged submission
Founded in 2022, Benha National University (BNU) has adopted governance and transparency as a leadership approach. Through a transparent, competitive process, the institution ensures that all 12 academic leadership posts are filled (ie, president, vice-president and deans). BNU empowers women: women represent 25 per cent of deans and women occupy the posts of vice-chair of the board of trustees and university general secretary. With a vice-president in charge of employment, entrepreneurship and innovation, the university’s leadership is closing the distance between academics and business and graduating future-ready professionals who can compete in the ever-changing labour market. The university council comprises business and professional experts, guaranteeing stakeholder inclusion. Sustainable development goals are present in our curriculum and policy. BNU provides healthcare for every student and social scholarships for those with disabilities, students who have lost guardians, and others. To guarantee gender equality, the university has embraced a staff and student code of ethics.
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ESLSCA University
Submission title or project name
Abridged submission
ESLSCA University’s senior management embodies the “Open Governance, Lasting Impact” strategy, redefining leadership in Egyptian higher education. Its collaborative and transparent approach empowers faculty, staff and students through an open-door policy and bottom-up decision-making. Pioneering cross-functional teams accelerate strategic initiatives by 20 per cent compared with sector averages, effectively addressing challenges such as digital transformation and curriculum innovation. ESLSCA’s leadership prioritises societal impact initiatives such as “SHE Leads”, offering exclusive scholarships, exemplifying its dedication to women’s empowerment and equal opportunities. Integrating government and NGO representatives into the board of trustees aligns the university with national development goals. Anticipating sector disruptions, ESLSCA’s leadership has engaged with the government by offering a fully funded MBA programme for government officials (valued at €4 million, with more than 1,700 participants to date) and a collaboration with the Baseera Foundation and Western Michigan University for a low vision and blindness specialist diploma, promoting social integration.
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German Jordanian University
Submission title or project name
The Vanguard Leadership Award
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Alaaldeen Al-Halhouli (president); Professor Malek AlSharairi (vice-president); Professor Iyas Khader (vice-president for academic excellence); Professor Rami AlAzrai (dean of scientific research); Professor Samer Alabed (accreditation and quality assurance department director); Dr Osama Saadeh (president adviser for sustainability); Dr Nidal AlShawawreh (dean of innovation technology transfer and entrepreneurship); Karma Kanaan (quality assurance administrator)
Project URL
Abridged submission
In 2024, the German Jordanian University (GJU) demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation and impact in higher education. Honoured with the Medal of Independence, First Class, by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan and ranked second in the Distinguished Public University Award issued by the King Abdullah II Centre for Excellence, GJU continues to excel. It became the first Jordanian university to achieve both ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 21001:2018 certifications. It earned global recognition by claiming the Outstanding Contribution to Entrepreneurialism honour at the THE Awards Arab World 2024 and securing AWS Academy accreditation. The university launched the Technology, Research and Innovation Park and expanded academic programmes. Financially self-reliant, GJU strengthened sustainability through solar energy and other green initiatives. It enhanced student recruitment, improved its QS ranking by 20%, and expanded partnerships to more than 5,000 industry collaborators. With increased research output, global accolades and a vibrant campus culture, GJU stands as a model of excellence and forward thinking in public higher education.
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University of Anbar
Submission title or project name
University of Anbar: from the ashes of conflict to a green hub of innovation and sustainability
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Mushtaq Talib Salih; Professor Farhan Dawood; Assistant professor Omar Khaldoon Abdulrahman; Dr Majid Sabbar Mohammed; Dr Ahmad Sh. A. Lafi
Project URL
Abridged submission
The University of Anbar’s leadership team has played a pivotal role in rebuilding and transforming the university after it was devastated in 2014 when Islamic State occupied the region. Following the campus’ liberation in 2017, the team launched a phased recovery and transformation plan to restore infrastructure, research capacity and institutional resilience. Working with consulting engineers and securing funding from federal and international sources, they rebuilt 43 structures and modernised classrooms and labs with smart technologies. Sustainability became a core focus, with initiatives such as the “Anbar Green Oasis”, solar power integration and water recycling systems. These efforts earned the university recognition in international sustainability rankings. The leadership also prioritised academic development, conducting 148 training workshops and tripling Scopus-indexed research output by 2024. Through the “Study in Iraq” programme, the university now hosts students from 46 countries. The leadership team’s efforts have positioned the university as a national model of resilience, sustainability and innovation.
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University of El Oued
Submission title or project name
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Omar Ferhati; Professor Bachir Mennai; Professor Ferhat Rehouma; Dr Fouad Med Ferhat; Professor Ammar Zaabi
Project URL
Abridged submission
Under rector Professor Omar Ferhati, the University of El Oued’s leadership team has transformed the institution into a model of innovation and quality in Algeria. Its strategic framework, built on six core pillars, has driven key achievements. It expanded access to education by establishing medicine and veterinary programmes in a remote region, enhanced teaching quality through faculty development and technology, and advanced research and innovation, notably through the House of AI and the “5+5” programme. It also strengthened community engagement and promoted sustainability, achieving a number one national ranking in green metrics. The team’s creative management includes an incubator programme for research and university-industry partnerships. The team’s commitment to its students and its community has made the University of El Oued a leading institution, demonstrating exceptional leadership.
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8
Most Innovative Teacher of the Year
Murad Al-Rajab, Abu Dhabi University
Submission title or project name
Code of inspiration: transforming classrooms into launch pads for innovation
Nominee or key personnel
Murad Al-Rajab
Abridged submission
Murad Al-Rajab, assistant professor at Abu Dhabi University, is a transformative educator known for blending academic rigour with creativity and compassion. In 2024, his students secured multiple national and international awards, research grants and publications under his mentorship. Through gamified learning, project-based curricula and signature events such as “Web Design Got Talent”, Dr Al-Rajab turns theory into action. He cultivates an emotionally supportive environment by listening deeply, advising beyond academics and encouraging students with empathy and motivation. His SET scores rose from 4.4 to 4.9, consistently exceeding benchmarks. His approach includes flipped classrooms, hybrid teaching and active tools such as AhaSlides to create memorable, impactful learning experiences. He founded the ADU Computing Club and ACM Chapter, connecting students globally. Dr Al-Rajab’s enduring commitment to student success and innovation exemplifies excellence in modern higher education. He chairs campus-wide events such as Cybersecurity Days and Software Engineering Days in collaboration with industry experts.
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Imad Barsoum, Khalifa University
Submission title or project name
Dr Imad Barsoum, associate professor of mechanical and nuclear engineering, Khalifa University
Abridged submission
Dr Imad Barsoum, recipient of the 2024 Khalifa University Faculty Teaching Excellence Award, has consistently transformed engineering education through innovative, practice-based teaching. His hands-on mentorship has led student teams to national recognition, including a first place win at the Think Science competition, with projects even acknowledged by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Drawing on his extensive industry experience, Dr Barsoum designs interactive courses that blend theory with real-world engineering. He enhances accessibility through recorded sessions, evening tutorials and digital tools such as MATLAB and Blackboard. His custom teaching aids – such as foam beams and 3D-printed gearboxes – make abstract concepts tangible. He mentors students in research and in competitions, guides senior design teams and organises industry field trips to link learning with professional practice. Student feedback consistently praises his clarity, encouragement and ability to instil confidence. Dr Barsoum’s teaching philosophy fosters engagement, innovation and student-centred culture.
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Chhaya Akshay Divecha, National University of Science and Technology
Submission title or project name
Reimagining learning: an innovative escape room pedagogy for enhanced student engagement and holistic development
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Chhaya Akshay Divecha, paediatrician and educator
Project URL
Abridged submission
Dr Chhaya Divecha developed educational escape rooms to enhance essential professional skills in higher education. These immersive experiences replace recreational puzzles with authentic clinical tasks, such as patient examinations and diagnostic scenarios, under realistic time pressure. The escape rooms, designed using student needs assessments, guide students through clinical tasks, with facilitators providing guidance and feedback. The initiative, refined through the FAIMER Fellowship, has improved students’ knowledge and received positive feedback. To address logistical challenges, digital escape rooms with AI-driven challenges and virtual patients were introduced. These adaptations have benefited medical, pre-clinical and high school students. Future plans include module refinement, expansion to other specialities, faculty development and more research. Dr Divecha has received awards for her work, mentored student research, obtained grants and disseminated her work through presentations, publications and workshops. Her transformative approach has created engaging learning environments with significant potential for transferability to other institutions.
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Dana Kakeesh, The University of Jordan
Submission title or project name
Redefining marketing education through real-world collaboration and active learning
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Dana Kakeesh, associate professor of marketing, University of Jordan
Project URL
Abridged submission
Dr Dana Kakeesh, associate professor of marketing at the University of Jordan, pioneers blended learning and experiential teaching in marketing education. She integrates real-world collaborations with companies and start-ups into her courses, empowering students to solve genuine business challenges and enhance their critical thinking skills. Her innovative pedagogy emphasises active learning, field experience and professional engagement, creating an educational environment in which students thrive as self-driven and market-ready professionals. Through initiatives such as her long-term partnership with BookAgri, collaboration with SMEs, and active alumni involvement, Dr Kakeesh redefines student learning, fostering creativity, industry connectivity and leadership.
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Amr Mamdouh, Alamein International University
Submission title or project name
The student-driven shape grammar course: fostering engagement and career readiness
Nominee or key personnel
Amr Mamdouh, assistant professor of digital architecture, Alamein International University
Project URL
Abridged submission
By implementing a student-driven contract in Introduction to Shape Grammars, I shifted from a passive learning model to one of active co-creation. This innovative approach – in which students select topics, co-design assessments and lead presentations – has significantly boosted motivation (92 per cent increase) and developed career-ready skills. Notably, strategically assigning leadership opportunities to lower-CGPA students fostered an 80 per cent improvement in their confidence and subsequent academic performance. This pedagogical shift demonstrably cultivates crucial career skills, evidenced by a 22 per cent increase in final pass rates and a 2024 alumni survey in which 45 per cent of respondents credited their internship success to skills honed within the course. Student feedback continuously informs improvements, with a university-wide collaborative design toolkit as a future goal. This model fosters engagement, ownership and demonstrable student success.
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Zahy Ramadan, Lebanese American University
Submission title or project name
Metaverse class: innovation in times of crisis
Nominee or key personnel
Zahy Ramadan
Project URL
Abridged submission
In the face of war and mass displacement, I pioneered Lebanon’s first metaverse classroom (also one of the first in the Middle East) to ensure that education thrived despite crisis. This initiative provided students with an immersive and interactive learning space in which they engaged in discussions, collaborated on case studies and experienced a sense of normality amid chaos. The metaverse classroom not only sustained education but also demonstrated resilience, inclusivity and innovation, breaking accessibility barriers for displaced and conflict-affected students. This achievement builds on my efforts to redefine education through experiential learning. Over the years, I have introduced interactive case studies, live market simulations, AI-driven competitions and virtual reality experiences to enhance engagement. My aim is to push the boundaries of education and prove that, even in adversity, learning can continue. The metaverse classroom stands as a testament to the power of innovation in transforming education especially in times of crisis.
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Azzam Abu Rayash, Hamad Bin Khalifa University
Submission title or project name
How Dr Azzam’s collaborative classrooms fuel start-ups, certifications and sustainable futures
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Azzam Abu Rayash, assistant professor in the Division of Sustainable Development, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University
Project URL
Abridged submission
Dr Azzam Abu-Rayash redefines education by merging academia with Qatar’s innovation vision. His Social Innovation and Green Buildings courses empower students to solve real-world challenges through entrepreneurship and sustainability. Under his mentorship, students have launched five start-ups (including Dawa’ak, addressing eldercare), secured QR25,000 (£5,000) in grants, and earned LEED GA certifications (90 per cent pass rate). By partnering with industry leaders such as Snoonu’s CEO and Sheikha Hissa Al-Thani and organising field trips to Sidra Hospital, Dr Azzam bridges theory and practice. His responsive teaching – gamified exam prep, pitch labs and inclusive adaptations for diverse learners – has produced 13 peer-reviewed papers and internships at the Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future. Students credit his “build, test, iterate” philosophy with transformative growth; one undergraduate, Mohamed Elhadi, said: “I entered as an engineer. I’m leaving as an entrepreneur.” Aligned with HBKU’s mission, Dr Azzam cultivates leaders who advance Qatar’s sustainable future. His classrooms are springboards for societal impact.
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Fouad Zablith, American University of Beirut, Suliman S Olayan School of Business
Submission title or project name
Innovative teaching through technology, enquiry and design
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Fouad Zablith, associate professor and associate dean for online programmes
Project URL
Abridged submission
Dr Fouad Zablith, associate professor and associate dean at the American University of Beirut, has transformed the student experience through innovative, technology-driven teaching and a deep commitment to real-world relevance. His courses empower students to explore and solve complex challenges using enterprise systems, data visualisation and human-centred design. In 2024 alone, his students published more than 400 data stories on national issues and ranked among the top global teams in the ERPsim business simulation competition. Through the Design2Transform initiative, students co-created impactful solutions to social challenges in interdisciplinary teams. Dr Zablith’s new Executive MBA course, AI in Business, is equipping current and future leaders to navigate emerging technologies responsibly. He continuously adapts his teaching through feedback, reflection and cross-sector collaboration, fostering a learning environment that is inclusive, engaging and future-ready. His approach exemplifies what it means to inspire students to learn with purpose and to lead with impact.
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8
Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Leadership
Ajman University
Submission title or project name
Greening communities: mangrove planting project
Nominee or key personnel
Ajman University, in collaboration with Al-Zorah Development Company and Quest for Adventure (Al Zorah Nature Reserve)
Project URL
Abridged submission
Ajman’s vulnerable coastline is being protected by the “Greening communities: mangrove planting project” implemented in 2023-24 by Ajman University along with Al Zorah Development Company and Quest for Adventure. This nature-based solution combats rising sea levels and carbon emissions by harnessing the remarkable abilities of mangroves to stabilise shorelines and sequester up to four times more CO₂ than terrestrial forests. With over 3,300 mangroves planted thus far, the project could absorb between 66,000 and 990,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Beyond its environmental impact, the project empowers communities: women lead planning efforts, students gain hands-on experience, and underserved youth connect with nature. With goals to expand mangrove cover by 50 per cent within five years and engage more than 10,000 participants, the initiative is a replicable model for coastal resilience. By uniting academia, businesses and volunteers, AU is demonstrating how local action can address global climate challenges while fostering social equity and biodiversity.
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Al-Ahliyya Amman University
Submission title or project name
From grape waste to wellness: a university-led innovation in sustainable health entrepreneurship and circular bioeconomy
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Rima Heider Al Omari (project lead); Bushra Akileh (participant); Professor Ghaleb Oriquat; Professor Ahmad Samed Al-adwan; Dr Tariq Alhasan; Dr Omar Abdeljaber; Raya Alsharif
Project URL
Abridged submission
Al-Ahliyya Amman University has led a transformative institutional initiative as part of the European Union-funded BESTMEDGRAPE project, converting grape waste into antioxidant-rich health supplements through green chemistry and interdisciplinary innovation. Spearheaded by the university’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center, in collaboration with the Faculty of Agricultural Technology and the Pharmaceutical and Drug Research Center, the project resulted in the launch of “H&H”, a start-up that embodies circular economy principles and regional entrepreneurship. The initiative aligns with SDGs 3, 8 and 12 and has already diverted more than 1.2 tonnes of waste, created new research jobs, trained over 40 students and filed a regional patent. Through scientific rigour, commercial viability and social responsibility, the project showcases how academic institutions can generate real-world impact. H&H is now scaling regionally, engaging with local farmers and expanding its product line – a demonstration of how higher education can lead sustainable innovation from lab to market, community and beyond.
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An-Najah National University
Submission title or project name
PALGAP: Pioneering sustainable agriculture through academic-policy partnership
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Munqez Shtaya (director of scientific centres); Dr Tawfiq Qubaj (project coordinator); Alaa Yasin (ranking department)
Project URL
Abridged submission
An-Najah National University (ANNU) has become a leader in environmental sustainability through its Safe Agriculture Initiative and the development of PALGAP, the first Palestinian Good Agricultural Practices standard. Co-created with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Palestinian Standards Institute, PALGAP addresses challenges such as groundwater stress and land-access volatility. After field pilots in 2022, its national roll-out was mandated in 2024. PALGAP led to a 64 per cent reduction in pesticide residues, 98 per cent compliance with water-use standards, and enabled 83 per cent of farmers, including 120 women, to secure premium contracts with an 18 per cent price uplift. ANNU integrated PALGAP into research, education and community outreach, upgrading labs and transforming farms into demonstration hubs. It trained farmers, agronomists, inspectors and auditors, embedding sustainability into national systems. ANNU’s science-driven model is now expanding beyond Palestine, demonstrating how universities can drive policy, food security and regional environmental leadership.
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Saint Joseph University of Beirut
Submission title or project name
Advancing water governance through civil society empowerment in Lebanon
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Fadi el Hage (chairholder at the chair of the “Fondation Diane” for Education in Eco-Citizenship and Sustainable Development (CEEDD) and delegate of the rector for professional development at Saint Joseph University of Beirut); Judy Zeineddine (project manager)
Project URL
Abridged submission
Lebanon’s water sector faces significant challenges resulting from mismanagement, pollution and political instability. While civil society organisations (CSOs) play a crucial role in addressing these issues, they often lack the resources to drive effective change. To address this, the chair of the “Fondation Diane” for Education in Eco-Citizenship and Sustainable Development at Saint Joseph University of Beirut implemented the “Improving CSOs’ Capacity to Engage in Water Sanitation and Conservation” project, supported by the USAID-funded Water Sanitation and Conservation (WSC) initiative. The project introduced a pioneering model combining technical water management training, non-technical capacity-building and participatory research, strengthening CSOs throughout Lebanon. Following a nationwide call for participation, 24 CSOs received training, resulting in 21 project proposals addressing water-related issues. By early 2025, several CSOs had transitioned from planning to implementation. Building on this momentum, Saint Joseph plans to support selected CSOs in securing funding and advancing sustainable water initiatives across Lebanon.
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Tanta Univesity
Submission title or project name
Bidaya for sustainability: Tanta University’s community-led environmental and agricultural outreach
Nominee or key personnel
Tanta University Leadership Team for Community Service and Environmental Development, led by Professor Mahmoud Farouk Selim (vice-president for community service and environmental development affairs, Tanta University)
Abridged submission
As part of Egypt’s Presidential Initiative for Building the Egyptian Citizen, Tanta University launched Bidaya – a pioneering environmental outreach programme to empower rural communities through sustainable agriculture, veterinary care and ecological awareness. Through multi-sectoral convoys across more than 15 villages in the governorate of Gharbia, Bidaya (Arabic for “start”) delivered practical services and educational workshops to more than 30,000 beneficiaries. Highlights include treating more than 18,000 animals, training over 1,000 farmers in eco-friendly practices, and organising 60-plus awareness sessions on waste reduction, biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods. The initiative integrates academic knowledge, grassroots delivery and environmental leadership in a scalable, field-based model aligned with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Bidaya promotes a greener rural economy and offers a transferable blueprint for environmental engagement across the Arab world.
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University Cadi Ayyad of Marrakech
Submission title or project name
From campus to community: university-driven solutions for sustainable sanitation in the Arab world
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Laila Mandi (principal investigator, emeritus professor in charge of sustainable development, Cadi Ayyad University); Professor Naaila Ouazzani (vice-dean in charge of research and cooperation at Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University)
Project URL
Abridged submission
Cadi Ayyad University has developed and deployed low-cost, nature-based sanitation technologies designed for rural and water-scarce communities across the Arab world. The initiative focuses on decentralised wastewater treatment systems, such as Multi-Soil-Layering eco-friendly technology and constructed wetlands that require no energy, use local materials and enable safe reuse of treated water for irrigation. These patented technologies have been successfully implemented in schools, rural villages and university campuses. They have improved health, reduced water consumption and protected groundwater resources. The initiative is anchored in applied research and field-based demonstration. It is supported by specialised academic programmes that have trained hundreds of students and professionals in sustainable water and sanitation management. This integrated model, linking scientific innovation, capacity building and environmental action, demonstrates how a university can act as a catalyst for scalable, inclusive and sustainable solutions to one of the most pressing development challenges in the region.
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University of Al Maarif
Submission title or project name
Go Green: University of Al-Maarif’s community-centred environmental leadership
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Mahmood A. Alsaadi; Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Khalaf; Khaled Jamal Ayed; Dr Yasir Mohammed Hammood; Dr Alaa Hamid Mohammed
Project URL
Abridged submission
Launched in 2023, the University of Al-Maarif’s “Go Green” initiative evolved into a transformative model of environmental leadership, achieving city-wide impact by 2024. Initially a campus-focused campaign, it expanded into partnerships with the local Ramadi municipality, local hospitals, schools and private companies. Students were actively engaged in reducing plastic use, recycling, digitising to minimise paper waste, and eco-friendly commuting, supported by operational measures such as installing solar panels (40 per cent energy reduction) and smart waste systems (30 per cent overflow reduction). Go Green’s success stems from integrating sustainability into academic programmes, research priorities and student activities, alongside widespread community engagement. Through public clean-up events, tree-planting drives and awareness campaigns, sustainability became a shared civic value. The initiative’s influence grew further through the TIOTC conference (Conference on Emerging Technology Trends in Internet of Things and Computing) and the creation of a regional Green Clinics training platform. Today, Go Green stands as a replicable model for institutional transformation, positioning Al-Maarif as a regional leader in environmental stewardship.
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University of Sharjah
Submission title or project name
From waste to wonder: the ADT Research Group’s holistic model for circular innovation
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Iman Ibrahim (associate professor in architecture, research group coordinator, University of Sharjah); Dr Narjes Haj Salem (associate professor in management, University of Sharjah); Dr Ahmed Farouk (associate professor in public relations, University of Sharjah); Dr Ali Radwan (associate professor in SREE, University of Sharjah); Dr Waleed Zeida (associate professor in civil and environmental engineering, University of Sharjah); Dr Suhail Mubarak (postdoctoral researcher, Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sharjah); Hadeel Al Qaysi (graduate research assistant, Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sharjah); Ayat Ashour (graduate research assistant, University of Sharjah)
Abridged submission
A diverse team of researchers from engineering, communication, design and business at the University of Sharjah united to ask: what if plastic waste sparked not just material change but mindset transformation? This question led to the creation of the Art and Design Transformation (ADT) research group – a multidisciplinary initiative backed by the Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences. Together, we began converting plastic waste into opportunity through creativity and collaboration. Our hybrid composite, made from recycled HDPE, aluminium foil and carbon fibre, achieved an 87.6 per cent increase in tensile strength. But our innovation goes beyond science – it’s seen in modular products, zero-waste design and public engagement. In 2024, our lab became a hub for hands-on sustainability, welcoming volunteers, students and partners. We’ve co-developed prototypes, studied behavioural trends and analysed media narratives – all to shape a future in which recycled plastics are not just viable, but visionary.
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8
Outstanding Contribution to Regional Development
Al Balqa Applied University
Submission title or project name
Empowering women through digital inclusion in Jordan’s rural regions
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Ahmed Fakhry Al-Ajlouni (president of Al Balqa Applied University); Professor Haitham Al-Shibli (vice-president of development and Quality Assurance and Centers Affairs); Dr Aiman Alawin (director of the Center for Development and Quality Assurance); Dr Omar Suleiman Arabiyat (INTERNISA project manager); Samra’a Ziad Al-Okaily (BAU Center for Development and Quality Assurance)
Project URL
Abridged submission
As the leader of the INTERNISA project in Jordan, Al Balqa Applied UniversityBAU seeks to assist NEET women in rural communities through digital business growth opportunities and digitisation skills. It solves three primary development concerns through its educational services and digital skills training for agriculture, tourism, textiles and finance. Through BAU’s INTERNISA Offline Spot, local women accessed business prospects after receiving education and individual career support from this platform. INTERNISA trained 135 female students and 30 business entrepreneurs by implementing work programmes and digital skills training to boost workplace effectiveness. This resulted in lasting partnerships between government and business entities to lock in sustainable project results. Recognising these achievements, the United Nations appointed BAU as Global Hub Chair for SDG 4 (quality education) (2025-27), citing INTERNISA as a model of inclusive digital empowerment for regional and global development.
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Al-Ahliyya Amman University
Submission title or project name
Enhancing agricultural sustainability via biological treatment of olive mill wastewater for bioenergy and animal feed production
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Muard Irshied Al-Maaitah (agricultural technology and genetic engineering department, Al-Ahliyya Amman University); Dr Gassan Hodaifa (molecular biology and biochemical engineering department, Pablo de Olavide University, Spain); Dr Sebastián Sánchez (Center for Advanced Studies in Olive Groves and Olive Oils, chemical environmental and materials department, University of Jaén, Spain); Farida Obaid, (agricultural technology and genetic engineering department, Al-Ahliyya Amman University)
Project URL
Abridged submission
This initiative addresses environmental and socio-economic challenges in rural Jordan by treating olive mill effluent, which contains toxic organic compounds, low pH and high chemical oxygen demand (COD). A team from Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Pablo de Olavide University and the University of Jaén uses the aquatic fern Azolla grown in untreated effluent as a biofilter. At 10 pilot ponds near olive mills in Balqa, Jerash and Irbid, where wastewater was classified by source and extraction method, Azolla reduced COD by 70 per cent in three weeks, producing effluent safe for agricultural irrigation. Harvested biomass yielded 20 tonnes of protein-rich feed annually, cutting feed costs by up to 40 per cent, and produced 5 tonnes of biofuel per year, powering generators and lowering emissions. More than 150 smallholders joined workshops on pond operation and Azolla cultivation. This scalable, low-cost model aligns with SDGs 1, 6, 7 and 9 by promoting economic empowerment, clean water, renewable energy and innovation.
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Al-Quds University
Submission title or project name
Digital Quds – empowering marginalised communities through technology
Nominee or key personnel
Ahmed Nada
Abridged submission
Digital Quds is a flagship initiative of Al-Quds University designed to digitally empower marginalised neighbourhoods in East Jerusalem, particularly areas such as the Old City and Shu’fat refugee camp. In partnership with the university’s business incubator, community partnership centre and career development centre, the initiative delivers community-based digital education, skills training in e-commerce, freelancing and content creation. It targets women, young people and unemployed residents, offering structured training, legal assistance and seed support for launching digital micro-businesses to more than 7,000 people annually. Digital Quds bridges the digital divide while fostering entrepreneurship and community resilience.
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An-Najah National University
Submission title or project name
JUST PAL – Justice through social training, Palestine
Nominee or key personnel
Faculty of Law and World University Ranking Team
Project URL
Abridged submission
The Legal Clinic at An-Najah National University is a transformative initiative that combines academic research, legal practice and social justice to address justice barriers faced by marginalised Palestinians. Established after extensive field studies, the clinic trains future lawyers by providing direct legal consultations under expert supervision, focusing on labour, family and human rights issues. Students engage in legal research, contributing to applied studies and public awareness campaigns. Since its launch, the clinic has assisted almost 1,500 clients and conducted almost 250 workshops, benefiting more than 4,350 individuals. It introduced innovative programmes such as mobile legal advice units, a radio hotline and an online dispute resolution platform, which reduced court processing times by 60 per cent. The clinic’s sustainable funding model combines university support, contributions from alumni in the legal profession and competitive grants. Through interdisciplinary training, research and outreach, the clinic fosters civic empowerment, legal innovation and community development, exemplifying how universities can drive meaningful societal change.
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Saint Joseph University of Beirut
Submission title or project name
Opération 7e jour – Saint Joseph University of Beirut
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Salim Daccache (rector, Saint Joseph University of Beirut); Joe Hatem (Opération 7e Jour coordinator); Dr Grace Abi Rizk (president of steering committee); Dr Liliane Barakat (steering committee member); Dr Wehbeh Farah (steering committee member); cell representatives: 37 doctors representing the various Saint Joseph faculties and institutions
Project URL
Abridged submission
Opération 7e Jour is built on a strategic vision to form active citizens committed to social change and sustainable development in Lebanon. Through this initiative, which has run since 2006, Saint Joseph University of Beirut fosters civic engagement by integrating community service into academic life. To implement it, 37 cells affiliated with the university’s faculties mobilise student volunteers to serve society, particularly the most disadvantaged populations, in alignment with their fields of study. These efforts involve collaboration between Saint Joseph’s faculties and institutions, the Hôtel-Dieu de France hospital, and the Berytech Technology Park, creating a united front to support communities facing hardship.
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The British University in Egypt
Submission title or project name
Convoys of compassion
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Tarek Abbas (pro vice-chancellor of the health cluster); Professor Fardos Rizk (acting dean of the Faculty of Dentistry); Professor Maha Adel (dean of the Faculty of Nursing); Dr Ahmed Ammar, lecturer in oral medicine and Convoys head); Dr Ayman Hani, lecturer in prosthodontics); Dr Fatema Makkeya (associate professor of prosthodontics); Dr Mahmoud Ankily (associate professor and acting head of oral biology); Dr Sherine Nader (associate professor of medical science); Ahmed Abd el Latif (administrator, head of Convoys); Dalia El Sayed (nurse head of Convoys)
Abridged submission
The British University in Egypt aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the government’s “Haya Karima” (decent life) initiative. We prepare students for active participation within their communities through responsible and responsive service, ensuring that their discipline-specific and broader interpersonal, intuitive and communication skills equip them for a future where decency, kindness and action are vital. Community engagement is a key strategic pillar. Our faculties of dentistry and nursing send students, supervised by staff, in medical convoys across all governorates in Egypt, providing free dental, medical and pharmaceutical treatments; physical/mental health support; and women’s healthcare. In the past year, they treated some 15,000 adults and about 5,000 children. A third of Egyptians live in extreme poverty in urban slums and remote villages. Our students learn to apply their knowledge in these real-world circumstances, gaining experiential and emotional maturity in dealing with humbling contexts and conditions. Being able to make a positive impact is transformational.
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The University of Jordan
Submission title or project name
Hearing Joy: A National Centre for Children’s Hearing Care
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Margaret Zuriekat (assistant professor in the School of Medicine, University of Jordan and a consultant otolaryngologist and audiologist at Jordan University Hospital)
Project URL
Abridged submission
Hearing Joy: A National Centre for Children’s Hearing Care launched in April 2024 in partnership with the Hear the World Foundation. It is transforming childhood hearing care in Jordan by providing early screening, diagnosis and intervention for children with hearing loss. The project, proposed and led by Dr Margaret Zuriekat, is conducted by a team of academics and clinical healthcare workers as well as expert volunteers and student volunteers from the School of Medicine and the Faculty of Rehabilitation Scientists. It has screened 2,285 children, donated 160 hearing aids, and provided free speech therapy. Hearing Joy has helped to train 663 healthcare professionals and students, ensuring capacity building and the sustainability of newborn hearing screening and hearing care programmes nationwide. The project also established the National Centre for Children’s Hearing Care at Jordan University Hospital. Hearing Joy is supporting healthcare workers’ upskilling, reducing health disparities, easing the financial burden on families, and improving public awareness of hearing health. This initiative is not just about healthcare – it’s about ensuring that every child in Jordan has the gift of hearing.
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University Cadi Ayyad of Marrakech
Submission title or project name
SOS Face Marrakesh: advancing regional health equity through surgical care and training
Nominee or key personnel
Professor N. Mansouri; Professor Z. Aziz; Professor M. El Bouihi; Professor S. Fawzi; Professor M. S. K. Hattab; Professor Y. Bennaoui; all of them members of the maxillofacial surgery department, University Hospital Mohamed VI of Marrakesh, Cadi Ayyad University
Project URL
Abridged submission
SOS Face Marrakesh, led by the maxillofacial surgery department at University Hospital Mohammed VI in Marrakesh, is a decade-long initiative that has strengthened health equity across the Marrakesh-Safi region by providing free facial reconstructive surgery to more than 1,000 patients, the majority from low-income areas. Since 2009, it has led at least 20 surgical missions. The programme helps patients regain essential functions such as speech and eating, allowing them to return to work or school and easing the burden on families. It also reduces stigma and promotes social reintegration. Beyond medical outcomes, missions support local employment in logistics, nursing and outreach. The campaigns raise awareness of invalidating but treatable conditions and encourage early intervention. Backed by local institutions and independent of international aid, the programme is sustainable and tailored to regional needs. While resident training is integrated, the core impact lies in delivering surgical care where it’s needed.
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8
Outstanding Support for Students
Abu Dhabi University
Submission title or project name
Student innovation meets AI: redefining support through ADU Connect
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Chakib Farhat; Roula Al Qasem; Sabri Abbas; Deenaz Kanji; Duha Lababidi; Dr Ghassan Aouad; Dr Hamad Ebrahim Ali Odhabi; Dr Barry O’Mahony; Stephen D’Cunha; Merlyn Kulapurath
Abridged submission
Developed by students, ADU Connect is an AI-powered platform transforming student support at Abu Dhabi University. Launched in 2023, it integrates academic, co-curricular and wellness services into a unified ecosystem. Its AI engine personalises student journeys, recommending skill-building events (such as debate clubs for public speaking) and tracking 60,000-plus volunteer hours aligned with UAE sustainability goals. With 57 per cent engagement at the Al Ain campus and 51 per cent at the Abu Dhabi site (2024-25), the platform maps activities to employability skills such as leadership and critical thinking, enhancing graduate employability via AI-driven Co-Curricular Transcripts. The Academic Success Centre module reduced the number of at-risk students by 15 per cent and boosted peer tutor applications by 20 per cent, fostering academic resilience. ADU Connect also aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2030, informing curriculum updates. Supported by 629 logged events and student testimonials, this innovation crafted by students for students showcases how AI and youth-driven creativity can redefine higher education.
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An-Najah National University
Submission title or project name
TESI: a model of crisis-resilient higher education and student empowerment
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Kherieh Rassas (vice-president for partnerships and global initiatives); Dr Marcello Scalisi (director of UNIMED); Dr Abdel Salam Khayyat (vice-president for academic affairs); Professor Saed K. Khayat (director of the Centre for Grants and International Projects); Dr Mustafa Ghanem (external programmes coordinator); Dana Abdulhamid (programmes coordinator)
Project URL
Abridged submission
In response to the destruction of Gaza’s higher education sector, An-Najah National University launched the Technical Education Support for Higher Education Students Initiative (TESI) in partnership with UNIMED. TESI provides displaced Gazan students with free, accredited online courses as visiting students, supported by over 550 volunteer instructors from more than 50 countries. The initiative combines academic continuity with emotional and practical support, offering orientation sessions, offline learning tools and a robust digital infrastructure. As of late 2024, more than 8,700 students had been issued registration numbers, and nearly 2,000 had completed courses successfully. TESI has become a global model for crisis-resilient education, showcasing how innovation, compassio, and international collaboration can protect the right to education in times of conflict. With strong international partnerships and a focus on sustainability, TESI continues to expand its impact and reaffirm the principle that no student should be left behind.
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Khalifa University
Submission title or project name
KUBee AI-powered academic assistant
Abridged submission
Khalifa University’s KUBee, an AI-powered academic assistant, improves both student and adviser experiences by providing real-time, personalised academic guidance. For students, KUBee offers immediate access to accurate information on degree requirements, course sequencing and academic policies through a chatbot and an online portal. This empowers students to make informed decisions, plan their courses effectively and track their academic progress, resulting in increased confidence and engagement. For advisers, KUBee reduces the burden of routine enquiries, allowing them to focus on personalised mentorship and strategic support. The system’s AI-driven course planning and registration tools streamline the advising process, while providing valuable data insights into student progress and course demand. Since its launch, KUBee has reduced registration office email enquiries by 50 per cent, enhanced student satisfaction and improved academic planning and progression. KUBee represents a transformative solution for efficient, AI-supported academic advising.
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King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
Submission title or project name
KFUPM’s Irshad platform: transforming mental health and student support
Abridged submission
Mental health is a growing concern among university students, requiring accessible and effective support systems. Recognising this need, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals introduced academic and psychiatric services in 2000. To streamline access, the university launched the Irshad platform in 2019 – a comprehensive, in-house solution offering free academic, psychological, behavioural, financial and social support. Irshad (which means “guidance” in Arabic) allows students to request help directly, while faculty and staff can refer students or peers in need. Its integration with key departments enables real-time, coordinated support. Since its launch, Irshad has handled more than 7,000 cases, significantly improving student well-being and academic performance. National and international institutions, including King Saud University and Arizona State University, have praised the platform’s innovation. King Fahd University is now enhancing Irshad with AI tools for greater interactivity, reaffirming its commitment to holistic student development and mental health awareness.
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Middle East College
Submission title or project name
Bridging potential to performance: MEC’s student success story
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Priya Mathew
Abridged submission
Middle East College (MEC) serves about 4,400 students with a balanced gender distribution, primarily from public schools of Oman (90 per cent of students are Omani nationals). Our student success framework holistically addresses academic achievement, well-being and professional development, aligned with the pivotal elements of MEC’s value proposition: qualification, experience and networking. The Student Success Centre, staffed by psychologists and counsellors, supports struggling students with “core advisers” who develop personalised intervention strategies addressing motivation, attendance and academic challenges. Student success mentors promote support services, while our customised Learning Experience Platform provides access to a host of services and tracks engagement. Additional resources include the Centre for Academic Writing, research opportunities, industry readiness initiatives, and initiatives to promote international mobility. Results show significant improvements in student outcomes in terms of academic achievement, employability skills and personal development. Our comprehensive approach has enhanced retention and achievement while fostering self-determined learning.
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National University of Science and Technology
Submission title or project name
Counsellor NU
Nominee or key personnel
Amal Al Ghailani, academician at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, National University of Science and Technology (Oman)
Abridged submission
In response to the urgent rise in student mental health needs during the Covid-19 pandemic, the National University of Science and Technology, Oman developed Counsellor NU, a digital mental health support platform. Informed by in-depth interviews with students and counsellors, and validated through pre- and post-analysis during pilot testing, the initiative offers 24/7 virtual counselling, culturally tailored self-help resources, psychological screenings and crisis support. Counsellor NU increased student engagement with counselling services by 63 per cent and raised satisfaction rates from 54 per cent to 88 per cent. Embedded within the university’s student services strategy, the platform ensures accessible, confidential support across all campuses, strengthening student well-being, resilience and academic success through a sustainable, evidence-based digital model.
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Saint Joseph University of Beirut
Submission title or project name
Empowering futures: career advancement model
Nominee or key personnel
Entrepreneurship and Career Office team
Project URL
usj.edu.lb/sip
Abridged submission
Saint Joseph University of Beirut developed an innovative support package through its Career and Placement Office (SIP) and its Entrepreneurship and Competencies Center (EC²) to meet students’ evolving needs, particularly during periods of socio-economic instability. The initiative integrates career counselling, AI-enhanced mentorship, digital services, job fairs and entrepreneurship promotion. More than 500 students participated in advising days, while 140 engaged in a 12-session mentorship programme. The e-SIP platform ensured continuity during crises, offering resources, job matching and virtual events to over 600 users. Students benefited from 1,300 job offers, while EC²-supported start-ups achieved national and international recognition. Saint Joseph’s hybrid model, combining in-person and digital support, has led to strengthening employability and multiple award-winning ventures. Key achievements include maintaining services during crises, integrating AI for personalisation, and building a scalable model. Moving forward, Saint Joseph aims to enhance AI-based advising, expand alumni mentorship, and develop market intelligence systems to better guide students and academic programmes.
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Taibah University
Submission title or project name
Innovation Pioneers Bootcamp: transforming ideas into impact
Nominee or key personnel
Deanship of Student Affairs
Project URL
Abridged submission
The Innovation Pioneers Bootcamp at Taibah University is a student-centred initiative designed to foster creativity, innovation and problem-solving. Targeting students from universities across Medina, the boot camp provides a dynamic setting where participants identify real challenges in university life – spanning academic, health, social and technological areas – and work collaboratively to develop practical, innovative solutions. Over four days, students receive mentorship from experienced peers and facilitators, engage in workshops on entrepreneurship and design thinking, and progress from ideation to prototype development. The initiative emphasises hands-on learning and empowers students to turn ideas into actionable projects with lasting impact on campus life. Projects are presented to expert panels and often continue beyond the event into national competitions or university adoption. The boot camp not only builds essential skills such as leadership, collaboration and creativity, but also reinforces the role of students as active contributors to institutional development and changemakers within their communities.
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8
Research Project of the Year: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, in collaboration with the University of South Carolina
Submission title or project name
Does board gender diversity matter in emerging markets? Evidence from banking sector performance in Egypt
Nominee or key personnel
Mohammed Omran (professor of financial economics, Graduate School of Business, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria, Egypt); Omrane Guedhamia (Russell Hill professor and professor of international finance, department of international business, Darla Moore School of Business, University of South Carolina)
Abridged submission
This research explores the real-world impact of gender diversity on corporate boards in Egypt’s banking sector. In response to new regulatory mandates, the study tracked board composition across 33 banks from 2016 to 2022, uncovering a clear and consistent link between female representation and improved financial and operational performance. Banks with at least two women on their boards outperformed others in profitability, efficiency and asset quality – highlighting the importance of reaching a “critical mass” for meaningful inclusion. The findings also reveal that women on boards help to mitigate governance risks tied to state ownership and power concentration. By offering solid evidence that diversity enhances decision-making and accountability, the research supports wider gender equality efforts and provides a valuable model for policymakers across the MENA region. Beyond academia, the work has sparked national dialogue, guided reforms and opened new avenues for collaborative research into inclusive leadership and corporate governance in emerging markets.
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Gulf Medical University
Submission title or project name
Eco-centric stakeholder theory
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Najeb Masoud
Project URL
Abridged submission
Eco-centric stakeholder theory (EST) redefines corporate governance by recognising non-human nature as a legitimate stakeholder. Traditional models, such as stakeholder theory and shareholder theory, often overlook the environmental dimension of decision-making, focusing primarily on human stakeholders and profit maximisation. EST bridges this gap by integrating environmental ethics into corporate strategy, offering a framework that aligns economic, environmental and social interests. The research demonstrates that incorporating non-human nature into decision-making can lead to sustainable, long-term corporate strategies that benefit both businesses and the environment. This framework has significant implications for industries facing pressing environmental challenges, including energy, manufacturing and agriculture. By operationalising sustainability, EST offers a path for companies to reduce their ecological footprint, enhance accountability and meet global sustainability goals, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future for both human and non-human stakeholders.
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Hamad Bin Khalifa University
Submission title or project name
AI for Palestine: a voice for justice
Nominee or key personnel
Mowafa Househ (project lead); Dr Samir Belhouari (technical director); AlHassan AlSammarraie (lead design team Applab); Hurmat Ali Shah (lead data curation); Ashad Islam; Mohammad Bahri; Zain Tariq
Project URL
We can send you a link and password, it works, but given the new trump administration rules and laws on pro palestine content, we had to take the site down. However, we can give you direct access to it without making it public
Abridged submission
At AI for Palestine, we strive to offer an authentic Palestinian perspective on events through our AI-driven platform, developed in collaboration with Applab in Doha and Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s College of Science and Engineering. Our interdisciplinary research collects first-hand accounts, archival records and digital communications to preserve and amplify Palestinian narratives traditionally misrepresented in the media. Named “Handala” after the symbolic character by Naji al-Ali, our AI embodies Palestinian resilience and exemplifies our commitment making sure the truth is told. Over the past year, we navigated challenges such as data scarcity and cultural sensitivity, adapting advanced machine learning to interpret local dialects accurately. The resulting platform fosters community engagement and informed dialogue, empowering activists, educators and policymakers to better understand occupation and resistance, ultimately contributing to a more balanced public discourse and inspiring further research and civic participation. Our work not only preserves heritage but also fuels meaningful social change.
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Ibn Tofaïl University
Submission title or project name
Virtual Tabadoul: enhancing cultural exchange and community building through task-based language learning in virtual reality
Project URL
Abridged submission
Virtual Tabadoul is an international virtual exchange initiative designed to connect students from Morocco and the United States through shared language learning and cultural dialogue.The programme aims to create inclusive and accessible spaces for students to interact across cultures. At its core, Virtual Tabadoul seeks to bridge the gap between language education and real-world intercultural engagement by encouraging meaningful communication among peers from diverse backgrounds. The initiative reflects a growing need for global collaboration and understanding in an interconnected world. By offering a structured yet flexible framework for exchange, it supports participants in developing broader worldviews and cultural sensitivity. While rooted in academic partnerships, the programme’s broader aim is to foster mutual respect, dialogue and a sense of global citizenship. Virtual Tabadoul continues to evolve as a model for innovative international education that values connection, cooperation and cultural learning.
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Qatar University
Submission title or project name
Greek-Arabic proverb encounters
Nominee or key personnel
Irene Theodoropoulou
Project URL
Abridged submission
A comparative analysis of Arabic and Greek proverbs completed in 2024 demonstrated the expression of common moral values, including honour, patience and family loyalty. The research goal was finding matching proverbs and studying their linguistic and cultural aspects to build cross-cultural understanding. I built two corpora by drawing from ethnographic and classical sources while organising proverbs based on theme and pragmatics and structural elements. The research faced obstacles when trying to deal with Arabic diglossia and when matching different imagery types (Greek maritime versus Arabic desert). I solved these issues through strict coding procedures and with advice from experts. The research findings demonstrated major similarities between the two cultures, which contradicted East–West dualities and proved the existence of common values. The research outcomes resulted in educational curriculum development alongside cultural preservation initiatives and community outreach programmes. A relevant future follow-up project is the Mediterranean-Middle East Proverbs Atlas.
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Taibah University
Submission title or project name
How does oil price uncertainty affect the stability of conventional and Islamic banks in major oil-exporting countries? Evidence from the GCC region
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Mohammad Hassan Alsharif (associate professor of finance at Taibah University)
Project URL
Abridged submission
This study investigates whether oil price uncertainty has different effects on the default risk of Islamic and conventional banks in major oil-exporting countries. Using a dataset of 61 banks from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, we examine the impact of the Oil Price Uncertainty Index (OPUI), a new forward-looking text-based uncertainty measure created by Abiad and Qureshi (2023). The results suggest that conventional banks are more vulnerable to higher oil price uncertainty, while this relationship does not exist for banks that adhere to Islamic finance principles. This provides an opportunity for investors to hedge against the region’s systemic risk.
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The University of Jordan
Submission title or project name
Al-Khaizuran: a culturally responsive digital intervention for supporting youth identity, voice and well-being
Nominee or key personnel
Latefa Ali Dardas (associate professor of psychiatric mental health nursing and vice-dean for quality, international accreditation and global ranking, University of Jordan School of Nursing)
Project URL
Abridged submission
Al-Khaizuran is a culturally adapted Arabic-language digital platform designed for adolescents and youth to build resilience, explore identity and bolster emotional well-being. The self-guided website delivers a series of interactive modules integrating storytelling, cognitive-behavioural techniques, religious values and local narratives, accessible via mobile devices. Developed through a seven-phase process – including national surveys, youth interviews and a randomised controlled trial – the project overcame barriers such as device access, stigma and engagement by co-designing with youth and using visual storytelling and culturally resonant content. Results showed high satisfaction, improved resilience and greater preference for self-guided, stigma-free support. Beyond health, the platform promotes emotional literacy, reduces stigma and serves as a digital humanities tool that blends narrative, ethics and social science. Following its successful publication in Frontiers in Psychiatry, the project is being expanded into a mobile app and considered for use in schools, youth storytelling archives and cross-cultural studies, affirming its interdisciplinary and societal value.
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University of Balamand, in collaboration with the Lebanese American University
Submission title or project name
Stakeholder dynamics in rural Lebanese women’s entrepreneurship
Nominee or key personnel
Omaya Kuran; Lara Khabbaz
Project URL
Abridged submission
This research explores how stakeholder engagement can empower female entrepreneurs in rural Lebanon amid ongoing national crises. Using participatory action research and narrative enquiry, the study engaged 28 women over three years to understand how they navigate systemic barriers such as limited resources, societal norms and geographic isolation. The project revealed the pivotal role of community networks, NGO support and tailored training in fostering entrepreneurial resilience and redefining success beyond profit. While formal government support was limited, informal ecosystems emerged as critical to business sustainability. The research has sparked dialogue with local NGOs and development partners about enhancing support strategies for female entrepreneurs in fragile contexts. It offers a replicable framework for inclusive, grassroots-driven development that recognises women as key agents of change. The study underscores how collaborative, socially engaged research can inform policy and practice while amplifying marginalised voices.
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8
Research Project of the Year: STEM
American University of Sharjah
Submission title or project name
Advanced Composite Technologies for Sustainable Structural Rehabilitation
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Rami Hawileh; Dr Jamal Abdalla
Project URL
Abridged submission
The Advanced Composite Technologies for Sustainable Structural Rehabilitation project at the American University of Sharjah, led by Dr Rami Hawileh and Dr Jamal Abdalla, tackles the urgent issue of ageing and fire-vulnerable infrastructure in the Gulf region. By developing advanced fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) systems, the team offers innovative, sustainable solutions for strengthening and repairing reinforced concrete structures. Their research combines cutting-edge materials with green technologies to enhance both durability and environmental resilience. Beyond academic achievements, the project has fostered strong collaborations with government agencies such as the Sharjah Civil Defense Authority and private-sector partners, ensuring real-world application of the technologies. In April 2025, the team hosted the first Symposium on Recent Advances in Fire Safety, bringing together international experts, industry leaders and policymakers. This project exemplifies how university research can drive sustainable development and improve the safety and longevity of critical infrastructure.
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Badr University in Cairo (BUC)
Submission title or project name
Haemostatic nanocomposites to address trauma mortality in the Arab region and beyond
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Mahmoud Fahmy Ali Elsabahy (professor of pharmaceutical technology and nanomedicine and vice-president for graduate studies and research, Badr University in Cairo)
Project URL
Abridged submission
This project presents a groundbreaking innovation in trauma care through the development of advanced haemostatic nanocomposites designed to instantly stop bleeding. The invention provides rapid, non-invasive haemorrhage control, significantly improving outcomes in pre-hospital and emergency settings. Having demonstrated superior efficacy and safety compared with existing products, the technology has been granted European and US patents, and gained publications in leading scientific journals. The device can be used without medical training, making it ideal for inclusion in first aid kits worldwide. With potential to reduce trauma-related mortality – especially in low-resource settings where immediate care is often delayed – this innovation stands to save millions of lives annually, reduce burdens on healthcare systems, and stimulate economic growth through job creation and enhanced public health. The invention is currently in the licensing and manufacturing phase, paving the way for global deployment.
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Jouf University
Submission title or project name
Smart desalination with capacitive deionisation: merging energy efficiency and economic feasibility
Nominee or key personnel
Smart Desalination Team – College of Science, Jouf University: Professor Hassan Hassan (project lead); Dr Meshal Alzaid (project coordinator); Dr Ahmed Alsyat (senior technical adviser)
Abridged submission
This project pioneers an innovative and sustainable approach to water desalination through capacitive deionisation (CDI). This low-energy, cost-effective technology removes salts from brackish water using electrically charged porous electrodes. Unlike traditional methods, CDI operates without high pressure or heat, reducing energy consumption by up to 70 per cent and minimising environmental impact. Utilising locally sourced carbon materials, such as agricultural waste, to fabricate high-performance electrodes promotes circular economy practices and significantly lowers production costs. It is scalable, easy to maintain and ideal for decentralised deployment in water-scarce and rural regions. The project delivers economic benefits through job creation and reduced infrastructure costs, social benefits by improving access to clean water and public health, and cultural value by preserving traditional water sources. With integrated salt collection and potential for ion-selective treatment, this CDI system offers a transformative solution to regional and global water challenges.
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King Saud University
Submission title or project name
Smart Shovel
Nominee or key personnel
Osama Jasem Aldraihem (principal investigator and inventor); Meshal Abdullah Alajaji (mechanical engineer and co-inventor); Yazeed Khalid Alsalim (mechanical engineer and co-inventor)
Project URL
Abridged submission
This advanced shock-alleviation shovel is a revolutionary tool designed to reduce user pain and fatigue and increase efficiency during digging tasks, especially on hard surfaces. It operates with no need for an external power source. Featuring an innovative attachment impact mechanism, this shovel leverages advanced technology for enhanced performance. The key features and benefits include: a powerless impact mechanism that works as a strain reducer on users’ shoulders and an amplifier of a digger’s efforts; durable construction with a focus on ergonomic design for users’ comfort; foot pedal and blade attachment for improved stability and efficiency; designed to dig through all soils effortlessly, enhancing productivity; enables users to work for longer periods with reduced physical exertion. There is a great market potential for this tool in the landscaping, construction, military and gardening industries. It is designed for those seeking high-performance tools.
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New York University Abu Dhabi
Submission title or project name
A bio-inspired approach to tackling water scarcity using UAE desert flora and hydrogels
Nominee or key personnel
Marieh Bassam Al Handawi
Project URL
Abridged submission
Freshwater scarcity is a growing global crisis, particularly in the Middle East. Fog and humidity are abundant yet underutilised water sources, especially in arid regions such as the United Arab Emirates. In nature, many desert plants and animals have evolved strategies to harvest this atmospheric moisture. These natural mechanisms inspire new technologies that can improve the efficiency of artificial humidity harvesting systems. My research focuses on finding eco-friendly and scalable alternatives to extracting fresh water by surveying the UAE desert and performing intensive fieldwork to search for nature-inspired water harvesting systems. During this exploration, I discovered Tamarix aphylla, a recretohalophyte that excretes hygroscopic salts capable of harvesting water from air. These salts crystallise and undergo daily deliquescence cycles, adsorbing moisture even below 50 per cent relative humidity – far outperforming conventional salts such as sodium chloride. This remarkable biological adaptation provides a highly efficient and sustainable model for atmospheric water capture, fog harvesting and low-humidity cloud-seeding applications.
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Prince Sultan University
Submission title or project name
PERCEVO: transforming mobility for the visually impaired with AI and IoT
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Tanzila Saba; Dr Anees Ara; Haifa Ammar Zeineddin; Aisha Ashworth; Asma Vaheed Khan; Raneem Alsoby
Project URL
Abridged submission
PERCEVO is an innovative AI-powered smart cane attachment developed by a team under the Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics Lab (AIDA Lab) at Prince Sultan University to empower visually impaired and hearing-impaired individuals. Combining real-time object recognition, distance measurement and multisensory feedback, PERCEVO enhances users’ spatial awareness and independence in mobility. With impressive indoor accuracy and user satisfaction ratings, the project offers a cost-effective, inclusive alternative to traditional navigation aids. PERCEVO demonstrates how AI and the internet of things can deliver real-world social impact through accessible, human-centred innovation.
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The Hashemite University
Submission title or project name
Epigenetic signatures of intergenerational exposure to violence in three generations of Syrian refugees
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Rana Dajani (Hashemite University) envisaged and led the study, collaborating with scientists from Yale University and the University of Florida
Project URL
Abridged submission
A landmark study envisaged by Rana Dajani, a Palestinian-Syrian Jordanian professor of molecular biology and genetics, offers the first human evidence that trauma can leave epigenetic marks inherited across generations. Conducted with researchers from Yale University and the University of Florida, the study followed three generations of Syrian families – those exposed to the 1982 Hama massacre, the Assad regime’s violence, and a control group. It identified consistent DNA methylation patterns linked to trauma, even among descendants not directly exposed. This research challenges traditional narratives of victimhood, reframing inherited trauma as a form of adaptive resilience – what Dajani calls “my grandmother’s wisdom”. Her leadership ensured cultural sensitivity, scientific rigour and direct community involvement. The findings carry urgent implications for global health and refugee policy, especially amid crises such as Gaza. More than a scientific breakthrough, this work is a call to honour lived experience and centre community-driven solutions.
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University of Hafr Al Batin
Submission title or project name
Development and optimisation of sildenafil orodispersible mini-tablets (ODMTs) for treatment of paediatric pulmonary hypertension using response surface methodology
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Mohamed Hassan Fayed (pharmaceutical sciences researcher, University of Hafr Al Batin)
Project URL
Abridged submission
Dr Mohamed Hassan Fayed developed and optimised sildenafil orodispersible mini-tablets (ODMTs) to improve treatment for children with pulmonary hypertension – a rare life-threatening condition that demands age-appropriate, easy-to-administer drug forms. Using response surface methodology, the research optimised a safe, stable and rapidly disintegrating mini-tablet that eliminates the need for water and enhances adherence in paediatric patients. The project overcomes key challenges in paediatric drug delivery and was published in a peer-reviewed journal, highlighting its scientific merit and translational potential. The innovation not only addresses a critical healthcare gap but also offers a model for applying statistical formulation tools to accelerate development. With real-world clinical promise and adaptability to other paediatric therapies, this work showcases how pharmaceutical research can generate tangible public health benefits. The published findings have opened doors to further development, clinical partnerships and potential commercial application.
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8
Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year
Abu Dhabi University
Submission title or project name
Empowered by design: transforming teaching and learning through faculty-driven Center for Faculty Development and Learning Innovation, Abu Dhabi University (ADU)
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Sreethi Nair; Dr Mohamed Fteiha; Dr Gary Williams; Dr Rania Al Dweik; Dr Ghassan Aouad; Dr Hamad Ebrahim Ali Odhabi; Dr Barry O’Mahony; Stephen D’Cunha; Merlyn Kulapurath
Abridged submission
At Abu Dhabi University, we develop teaching excellence as a culture of growth. Central to our 2024-29 strategy is the belief that empowering educators empowers graduates. This year, more than 30 professional development sessions were delivered through the Center for Faculty Development and Learning Innovation, with 190 faculty attending more than five sessions. Topics included inclusive teaching, student well-being and AI-enhanced assessment. Faculty also engaged in certification programmes and were supported by monthly Teaching and Learning Tips. A digital PD system enables faculty to register, provide feedback and access certificates. Since January 2024, 29 faculty have earned Advance HE Fellowships, reflecting our alignment with UAE education priorities. We also launched a research centre, as well as a pedagogy journal, and hosted a teaching conference attracting 200-plus global participants. Students feel the difference – 85 per cent of faculty applied new strategies, and 83 per cent reported improved student engagement. This is not just progress – it’s a purposeful transformation reaching beyond our campus.
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Alamein International University
Submission title or project name
From strategy to impact: AIU’s approach to learning innovation
Abridged submission
Alamein International University (AIU) prioritises innovative, inclusive and relevant teaching and learning through student-centred approaches, faculty development, technology integration and partnerships. AIU proactively trained instructors in modern pedagogy before establishing the Center for Teaching Innovation (CTI), which now systematically monitors teaching practices. An annual teaching innovation award recognises teaching innovation, and active learning implementation will influence teaching loads. Technology is central, with Microsoft Teams and Canvas LMS supporting blended and online learning, alongside tools such as gamification and VR labs. AIU is a regional Coursera for Campus lighthouse partner, fully integrating MOOCs into degree programmes, with more than 6,000 students participating. AIU’s Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) model embeds internships and industry projects, guided by stakeholder committees and the University Center for Career Development (UCCD). Student success and inclusion are supported by advising, scholarships, mental health services and flexible learning options. AIU fosters a thriving academic culture, preparing graduates for the global landscape.
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Al-Quds University
Submission title or project name
FlipQuds – community-engaged flipped learning
Nominee or key personnel
Ahmed Nada
Abridged submission
FlipQuds is a hybrid learning model developed at Al-Quds University that integrates flipped classroom methods with community-based experiential learning. Spearheaded by the Career Development Center and Academic Affairs, the strategy allows students to learn theoretical concepts through digital content and then apply them in real-world settings such as legal clinics, schools, women’s shelters or youth centres. With more than 400 students enrolled annually across disciplines, the model blends academic rigour with civic responsibility, improving both learning outcomes and community impact. FlipQuds reflects a shift from passive to active, purpose-driven education.
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Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport
Submission title or project name
Creativity in Action: turning classrooms into imaginative spaces
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Mohamed Khedr; Professor Nahla Belal
Abridged submission
At the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, we believe that creativity is fundamental in today’s AI era. Our Creativity in Action policy seeks to create imaginative, playful and interdisciplinary classrooms. Key to this are four initiatives:
- Riddle games: At the campus-wide level, students solve cleverly constructed riddles as part of a school-wide investigation, learning lateral thinking, collaboration, risk-taking and creativity in an engaging way, that is high in fun and low in pressure.
- Interdisciplinary discussion sessions: Students from various majors work as collaborative groups to design innovative, real-world projects involving interdisciplinary work that rubs up against creative problem-solving.
- Minor in AI for all: Students from all programmes are invited to participate in using AI as a problem-solver to address and innovate in their own discipline.
- Stand outside the crowd: Students use various creative means (such as video, podcast and social media) to explain concepts that encourage self-expression and connections with both academic and real-world communities.
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Arab American University
Submission title or project name
Bridging competence and curriculum: AAUP’s digital transformation through outcome-based learning
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Sami Sadder (assistant vice-president for planning, development and quality affairs)
Abridged submission
The Arab American University (AAUP) implements an outcome-based education (OBE) teaching and learning strategy to align academic programmes with market needs and international standards. Each programme defines its programme learning outcomes (PLOs) and develops a curriculum and course structure based on Bloom’s taxonomy. Tools such as the “Syllabus Builder” and “Exam Builder” support the design, assessment and validation of course learning outcomes (CLOs). Complemented by inclusive teaching methods and standardised assessment policies, this integrated approach ensures continuous curriculum improvement, promotes active student engagement and enhances academic quality. Data-driven evaluations help track student progression and support evidence-based curriculum and teaching refinements.
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Nile University
Submission title or project name
NU teaching and learning strategy
Nominee or key personnel
Hanan Elrefaii (director for teaching and learning and digital education centre)
Abridged submission
Nile University’s teaching and learning strategy is built on four foundational pillars: research; learning; entrepreneurship and innovation; and community impact. All four are fully integrated into the curriculum through research-informed learning, competency-based education and project-based learning, aligning education with real-world needs. The Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) leads this transformation by offering year-round capacity-building workshops on topics such as research methods, innovation, tech tools and personal development – doubling its offerings in two years and reaching more than 230 faculty members in 2023-24. The centre also collaborates with departments such as IT, the library and the IP Office to enhance teaching resources and foster innovation. NU’s Undergraduate Research Forum (UGRF) showcases impactful, research-based student projects that serve community needs. A forthcoming Innovation in Teaching Awards ceremony will further celebrate faculty excellence. Through this strategic, tech-driven and community-focused approach, NU is setting a new standard for transformative education in the region.
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University of Al-Qadisiyah
Submission title or project name
Integrated teaching innovation strategy at the University of Al-Qadisiyah
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Rahi Al-Yasiri
Abridged submission
Under the leadership of Professor Rahi Al-Yasiri, supported by the curriculum innovation team, the University of Al-Qadisiyah has implemented a distinctive teaching and learning strategy that champions innovation, digital integration and student engagement. The initiative features blended learning, flipped classrooms and interactive virtual labs powered by learning platforms such as Moodle and Google Classroom. Faculty received ongoing training, while students contributed to content development through structured feedback. The university introduced peer-led learning models and launched a Teaching Excellence Award to reward outstanding pedagogical practices. Performance dashboards and mobile-compatible resources ensured inclusive, data-driven and accessible learning. This strategic shift boosted student satisfaction, retention and academic outcomes across multiple faculties. This university-wide strategy is now part of the institution’s long-term development plan and is being shared regionally as a replicable model for modern, inclusive and future-ready education.
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University of Basrah
Submission title or project name
Renewing the university education system through the flipped classroom: an innovative educational strategy at the University of Basrah within the Bologna Process
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Auday Basheer Essa Al-Mayyah; Dr Sarmad Ghazi Al-Shawi
Project URL
Abridged submission
The University of Basrah has launched a pioneering initiative to modernise higher education by integrating the flipped classroom strategy with Europe’s Bologna Process. This innovative model replaces traditional lectures with pre-recorded digital content, enabling classroom time to focus on interactive, application-based learning. Hosted on advanced e-learning platforms, including OER and MOOC systems, the initiative enhances student engagement, critical thinking and independent learning. By aligning with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), the strategy ensures structured, outcomes-based education. More than 700 faculty members were trained in collaboration with UNESCO and the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF). The initiative has already improved academic performance and fostered a learner-centred culture across multiple colleges. This approach represents a transformative shift in Arab university education, combining educational technology, global standards and pedagogical innovation to prepare students for the digital and competitive labour market.
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8
Technological or Digital Innovation of the Year
An-Najah National University
Submission title or project name
Najah2Twin: transforming campus life through a smart digital twin ecosystem
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Eehab Hamzi Hijazi; Dr Khalil Ibraheem Issa
Project URL
Abridged submission
An-Najah National University’s Najah2Twin project is transforming campus operations through an innovative smart campus digital twin. By integrating geographic information systems (GIS), building information modelling (BIM) and internet of things (IoT) technologies, Najah2Twin creates a dynamic, real-time digital replica of the university’s infrastructure and operations. The platform enhances operational efficiency, reduces energy and maintenance costs, improves safety and supports sustainability by optimising resource management. It also enriches the academic environment by offering students and researchers a live model for innovation in smart city technologies and sustainable development. Future plans include integrating artificial intelligence for predictive analytics, augmented reality (AR) for immersive campus experiences, and mobile applications for intuitive navigation. Najah2Twin not only addresses institutional challenges but also sets a benchmark for how universities in the Arab region can lead digital transformation, foster sustainability and elevate academic excellence through advanced, future-ready technological ecosystems.
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Arab American University
Submission title or project name
Transforming higher education through digital innovation: the impactful journey of the E-Learning Center at the Arab American University
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Ahmed Ewais (director of the E-Learning Center)
Abridged submission
The E-Learning Center at the Arab American University is leading Palestine’s digital transformation in higher education through immersive virtual reality (VR) integration, innovative pedagogy and cross-sectoral impact. Beyond its traditional LMS and support roles, the centre has embedded VR into academic courses in medicine, nursing, engineering and sciences, offering students practical, simulated learning experiences. It established mini-VR labs, created custom modules and overcame local infrastructure limitations through strategic faculty support. Internationally, the centre has led projects such as TESLA (Erasmus+), NursingXR (with Virginia’s Shenandoah University) and E-Pal. As the first NAACE-accredited centre in Palestine, it champions global digital standards. It also supports national capacity by hosting high-stakes governmental and public sector e-exams, serving thousands. With future plans incorporating AI, learning analytics and gamification, the centre is positioning itself as a regional hub for educational innovation. AAUP’s E-Learning Center exemplifies how digital technology can enhance education, strengthen institutions and promote development.
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Benha National University
Submission title or project name
SAMU (Smart Academic Management Utility)
Nominee or key personnel
Project developed by a team from Benha National University’s Faculty of Engineering: Professor Mohamed Said Mohamed Abd-Elghaffar (dean of Faculty of Engineering); Dina Hosny Soliman El-Naggar (teaching assistant and student activity coordinator); Adham Abdelkader Abdelkareem Ibrahim (leader); Pierre Samir Ezzat; Kirolos Tamer; Abdelrahman Nayef; Salah Tamer; Mohamed Hesham
Abridged submission
SAMU (Smart Academic Management Utility) is a multifunctional mobile application developed to enhance the academic and campus experience for university students. It features a smart attendance system that verifies student presence using location, biometric data, lecture timing and a QR code – ensuring accuracy and reducing administrative burden. SAMU also includes an AI chatbot that advises students on course selection based on their academic records, helping them to make informed decisions and improve performance. Additionally, the app streamlines campus life with a food ordering system connected to university restaurants and an emergency button that instantly shares a student’s location with campus security for rapid response. Developed by a student team and recognised with second place in a competitive hackathon, SAMU showcases how digital technology can drive efficiency, safety and engagement in higher education. Its modular design makes it scalable and adaptable for institutions across the region.
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Mohammed V University of Rabat
Submission title or project name
Digital management for PhD students
Nominee or key personnel
Ismail Kassou; Mohammed Dafir Echcherif El Kettani; Mustapha Ennefkhaoui; Hind Messaoudi; Loubna Rachidi; Malak Tazi
Abridged submission
Since 2023, Mohammed V University of Rabat has digitised its doctoral process, thus meeting national requirements for online registration. This digital system covers the entire doctoral journey, from the preselection of candidates to the issuance of diplomas. Three main platforms have been established:
- Online pre-registration platform
- Online re-registration platform
- ETU platform.
This digital transformation addresses several challenges, including data accumulation, the complexity of archiving and the security of personal data. The roll-out began at the start of the 2023-24 academic year. In 2024, this initiative had several significant impacts:
- More national excellence scholarships awarded to the university
- Faster processing of application files
- Follow-up of joint supervision (cotutelle) thesis
- Quick identification of potential patents
- Follow-up of indexed papers and students’ publications.
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National University of Science and Technology
Submission title or project name
Artificial intelligence-powered web interface for training undergraduate medical students in clinical diagnostic reasoning
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Prashanth Gowda Parameshwara
Project URL
Abridged submission
Diagnostic errors remain a significant challenge in healthcare, with the Institute of Medicine report highlighting thousands of preventable deaths annually. These errors often stem from deficiencies in clinical diagnostic reasoning (CDR), yet traditional curricula offer limited practice in hypothesis-driven decision-making. To address this, we developed AIDRES (Artificial intelligence for diagnostic reasoning skills), an NLP-enabled web platform simulating authentic clinical workflows and integrating CDR workshops and formative assessments into rotations. Our mixed-methods project included defining a CDR framework and surveying students, building a client-server chatbot despite budget constraints via FAIMER networks, and deploying AIDRES in undergraduate and postgraduate settings, including a multicentre case-control study in India. Undergraduates using AIDRES improved script concordance test scores significantly, and postgraduates demonstrated meaningful gains, with learners reporting enhanced critical thinking and confidence. This scalable innovation has the potential to reduce diagnostic errors, catalyse longitudinal impact studies, and advance medical education globally.
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Nile University
Submission title or project name
InCampus Presence Management Project, Nile University
Nominee or key personnel
Ahmed Abo Bakr Ali (Nile University chief information officer)
Abridged submission
Nile University’s InCampus Presence Management Project integrates AI-powered facial and number plate recognition with wi-fi analytics to map real-time and historical campus presence. This innovative system optimises network bandwidth, enhances academic scheduling, and supports research on space and time utilisation. The initiative improves operational efficiency, reduces unnecessary movement and enriches student and faculty experience. With its scalable and replicable framework, strong privacy safeguards and cross-department collaboration, the project exemplifies how digital transformation can deliver measurable impact across administrative, academic and research functions in higher education.
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Taiz University
Submission title or project name
Empowering deaf education: leveraging AI for an efficient bidirectional real-time Arabic Sign Language translator
Nominee or key personnel
Dr Mogeeb A. A. Mosleh (principal investigator and lead AI developer, AI and NLP researcher); additional key teams: researchers with graduate students act as computer vision specialist, linguistic dataset curator, educational technology integration. Project developed in collaboration with institutions in Yemen and Saudi Arabia, including Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, the Deaf Institution of Yemen, and local schools (Al-Nahda, Al-Shaab).
Project URL
Abridged submission
In response to the lack of inclusive educational tools for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, our institution developed an AI-powered Arabic Sign Language (ArSL) translation system. This real-time, bidirectional tool enables seamless communication between sign language and spoken/written Arabic, enhancing accessibility, participation and learning outcomes. Built with speech recognition, NLP, gesture recognition and 3D avatars, it empowers students to engage independently in class. Piloted in 2024, the tool improved comprehension (by 85 per cent), learning outcomes (75 per cent) and classroom engagement (95 per cent). It also fostered problem-solving and communication skills, while 90 per cent of teachers adapted strategies to better support deaf learners. Integrated into learning systems and training programmes, the tool aligns with UN SDGs 4 and 10, promoting quality education and reduced inequalities. Scalable and open for regional collaboration, this project offers a transformative model for inclusive, tech-driven education across the Arab world.
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The University of Jordan
Submission title or project name
AI-powered portal for quality management in higher education
Nominee or key personnel
Professor Nathir Obeidat (university president); Dr Amira Masri (vice-president for quality and accreditation); Dr Dima Suleiman (project director); Arwa alsan’i (software development manager); Dr Wael Al-Azhari (director of accreditation and quality assurance centre); Ahmad Kheraisat (software developer); Isra’a Abu Zaid (software developer); Fadi Qattoush (software developer); Dr Ruba Obiedat (chatbot supervisor); AbedAlRahman Sbeih (chatbot developer); Marian Indrawes (chatbot developer); Lojain AlMoghreby (chatbot developer); Fares Ata (chatbot developer); Dr Loai Alnemer (Information Technology Centre director); Reem Al Qudah (director, accreditation department)
Project URL
Abridged submission
The University of Jordan has developed a smart, AI-powered portal to improve academic quality management, strategic planning and accreditation readiness. This innovative platform connects directly to the university’s registration, HR and quality assurance systems, providing reliable real-time data for decision-making. It features automated capacity planning to assess programme compliance with enrolment and staffing requirements, and uses predictive analytics to forecast retirements and support long-term recruitment planning. The portal includes dynamic dashboards and customised reports, streamlining communication and accelerating governance processes. A key addition is UJ ScholarBot, an AI-powered multilingual chatbot that allows academic staff and administrators to easily retrieve information through a conversational interface. This cost-effective and scalable solution overcame technical integration challenges. The portal reduces the administrative workload, improves efficiency and uses AI to enhance academic quality and institutional performance.
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