Saudi Minister of Education Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan, alongside U.S. Ambassador Michael Ratney, inaugurated the Saudi-U.S. Higher Education Partnerships Forum.
The forum, hosted by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy and the Institute of International Education, united leaders from over 80 Saudi and U.S. universities. The event focused on enhancing bilateral educational cooperation and academic innovation.
Vision for Global Excellence
Minister Al-Benyan emphasized Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global education hub through diverse and open educational initiatives. He stressed that academic partnerships require joint investment in exchange programs, research, and joint academic ventures.
He highlighted the importance of the “Study in KSA” platform, which attracted over 80,000 applicants from 152 countries. This initiative demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering global academic exchange and attracting international talent.
Foundation for Sustainable Development
Al-Benyan pointed out three critical pillars for university rankings: student quality, faculty excellence, and investment in research development. He praised universities’ roles in advancing sustainable development through cutting-edge research.
He underscored that the forum aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, enhancing bilateral cooperation to overcome challenges and achieve shared goals.
Ambassador Ratney reaffirmed the U.S. government’s dedication to promoting international education and exchange programs. He celebrated the historic agreement enabling U.S. graduate students to study in the Kingdom for the first time.
He also emphasized strengthening bilateral ties through faculty and student exchanges and joint research projects, benefiting institutions in both countries.
Educational and Research Cooperation
Dr. Nasser Al-Aqili, Undersecretary for Research and Innovation, welcomed the U.S. delegation and highlighted Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on educational reform and research excellence. He encouraged global universities to establish branches in Saudi Arabia, enhancing collaboration opportunities.
The forum concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding, supporting academic exchange and mobility between Saudi Arabia and the U.S.
Transformational Visits to Saudi Universities
The U.S. academic delegation visited universities in Jeddah, Dhahran, and Riyadh. They witnessed the Kingdom’s education transformation, infrastructure investments, and ongoing university advancements.
The discussions and panel sessions reinforced strategic cooperation, exploring effective partnerships, joint research, and faculty exchange programs. These efforts aim to strengthen ties and drive innovation in higher education.
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