Muscat, Sultanate of Oman | October 15, 2025
The “QS Arab Forum” opened today at Sultan Qaboos University in the Omani capital, Muscat, bringing together a distinguished group of university presidents from across the Arab region to discuss the future of higher education.Hadhramout University is participating in the forum, represented by its President, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Saeed Khanbash.The President of Sultan Qaboos University welcomed the university leaders, emphasizing the critical importance of joint scientific and research cooperation among Arab academic institutions..
At the heart of the forum’s activities, two main panel discussions were held for university leaders, focusing on redefining the role of academic institutions. The first session explored the concept of transforming the Arab university into a “Borderless University.”This session highlighted the need for Arab universities to transcend traditional boundaries and enter a new era that balances academic excellence, equity, innovation, and social responsibility. As disciplinary and sectoral boundaries continue to blur, the discussions emphasized the need to redefine the goals and impact of higher education. The session showcased the “Borderless University” model and its nonprofit governance structure, illustrating how such a model can empower universities to lead with purpose and serve the public good. The experience of Ajman University in transitioning to a nonprofit institution and its community initiatives was presented as a case study.Participants focused on practical approaches to removing barriers, reinvesting in students and communities, and enhancing transparency and trust.
The second session addressed the role of universities as catalysts for innovation and economic entrepreneurship. It examined how universities can evolve from being mere sources of knowledge to becoming engines of innovation in the Arab region. The session explored how higher education institutions can foster entrepreneurial thinking, promote effective cross-sector collaboration, and translate theoretical research into practical solutions.Examples of partnerships between academia, startups, government, and the business sector were presented, aimed at accelerating economic diversification and technological advancement. The discussions emphasized the role of universities in nurturing talent and creating innovation ecosystems that drive the region toward a knowledge-based and creative economy.
Aligned with the forum’s objectives, Hadhramout University seeks to establish itself as a leading center for knowledge and innovation in Yemen and the Arab region by fostering a stimulating educational and research environment and empowering young talents. In line with this vision, the university will inaugurate the Hadhramout University Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation in November. The center aims to support student-led entrepreneurial projects and innovations, and will be accompanied by the launch of its digital platform to receive and manage related initiatives and activities.