RIYADH: The Times Higher Education World Academic Summit is being held in the Middle East for the first time, hosted by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.
The three-day summit began on Tuesday, bringing together 750 participants including 105 keynote speakers from 75 institutions in 28 countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The gathering includes leading university presidents, decision-makers, industry leaders and academics from across the globe to discuss the theme “Universities as Agents of Change.”
It explores the role of universities in accelerating innovation and economic growth, promoting sustainability, preserving culture, and strengthening global collaboration.
Speakers presented research to address real-world needs, from developing sustainable cities to innovations in health and artificial intelligence, as well as the essential skills students need to build a prosperous future.
In his opening remarks, KAUST President Edward Byrne said that hosting the summit for the first time in the Middle East affirms Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership in science and innovation.
He added that the milestone underscores KAUST’s role as a benchmark model for universities designed to deliver impact. The summit provides an opportunity to collaborate with global partners to drive progress and help shape the future of higher education.
The Times Higher Education’s Chief Global Affairs Officer Phil Baty said the summit has brought together some of the most influential voices in higher education to address the challenges and opportunities facing universities.
He noted that KAUST’s hosting of the event reflects its mission-driven role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s priorities in research, development and innovation under Saudi Vision 2030.
Baty added that such priorities span diverse fields, including health and well-being, environmental sustainability, leadership in energy and industry and future economies.
