العربية
Sohar University is preparing to host the Third ALECSO Forum on Universities Twinning under the theme “The Productive University.” The event is organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, in collaboration with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) and the Oman National Commission for Education, Culture and Science. It will take place on 12–13 November at Sohar University’s campus under the patronage of H.E. Prof. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al Mahrooqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. The forum will bring together a distinguished group of university VCs, researchers, policymakers, and representatives of academic and industrial institutions from across the Arab world.
The forum aims to strengthen integration and collaboration among Arab higher education institutions and to develop new models of academic and research partnerships and twinning that align with Oman Vision 2040. It also seeks to address the requirements of digital transformation, innovation, and future skills development.
Over the course of two days, the event will feature ten discussion sessions. The first day will include sessions focusing on “The Productive University: Concept, Dimensions, and Global Models,” “Knowledge and Scientific Skills Required by the Labor Market,” “Requirements for Enhancing the Role of Universities in the Industrial Sector,” “University–Industry Partnerships for Designing and Developing Effective Academic Programs,” and “Transitioning from a Traditional University to a Productive University.” The second day will include sessions on “Investing in Research Outputs to Achieve the Productive University Concept,” “The Productive University: Arab and International Models,” “University Partnerships with Industry and Global Institutions: Current Challenges,” “Maximizing the Benefits of Partnerships and Research Collaboration as a Strategic Approach for Broader Impact,” and will conclude with “Practical Recommendations for Building an Arab Model of the Productive University.”
Hosting this prominent scientific event underscores Sohar University’s commitment to supporting the Arab higher education movement toward building entrepreneurial and productive universities capable of contributing to sustainable development. The university continues to focus on developing innovative academic programs, strengthening research and innovation, and expanding partnerships with industrial and private sectors to meet national priorities.
The forum serves as a vital platform for the exchange of experiences and expertise, as well as for showcasing successful university twinning initiatives among Arab universities. It will also include the signing of several academic and research cooperation agreements and strategic alliances between Sohar University and a number of local and international institutions. Additionally, discussions will focus on the development and commercialization of new technologies that support innovation, knowledge transfer, and the exchange of expertise.
The event is expected to feature a range of research papers addressing key themes such as the productive university model, academic–industrial partnerships, digital transformation in higher education, and future skills. A number of distinguished experts and speakers from across the Arab world will take part in the discussions, enriching dialogue on how Arab universities can play a greater role in advancing education, research, and innovation.