Amr Ezzat Salama: Arab Universities Forum is Key to Global Competitiveness

Amr Ezzat Salama, Secretary-General of the Association of Arab Universities, has described the upcoming Arab Universities and International Student Recruitment Agents Forum as a strategic initiative that will significantly advance the global presence and competitiveness of Arab higher education.

The Forum, organized by the Association in cooperation with Belgravia Organization, will be held in Amman, Jordan, from July 28 to 29, 2025. It is designed to serve as a platform for international cooperation between Arab universities and certified student recruitment agents from across the world. The two-day event will feature bilateral meetings, partnership agreements, and in-depth discussions on expanding enrollment and improving student engagement across Arab academic institutions.

Dr. Salama emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative, stating:

“This forum represents a strategic platform to strengthen the presence of Arab universities on the international educational scene and opens new horizons for collaboration with partners specialized in international student recruitment. At the Association, we believe that expanding international student enrollment not only enriches cultural diversity on campus but also contributes to improving the quality of education and enhancing the global competitiveness of our academic institutions.”

This initiative aligns closely with the Association’s broader mission to elevate Arab universities to globally competitive standards, especially in response to shifting trends and challenges in international education and student mobility.

Established in 1964 as a League of Arab States initiative, the Association of Arab Universities has long been a key driver of academic cooperation and development across the region. The idea for the Association was shaped by two foundational conferences held in Benghazi and Beirut, which focused on the future of Arab higher education. In 1969, the Association held its first General Conference with 23 universities participating, and officially established its permanent General Secretariat in Amman. The late Dr. Morsi Ahmed was elected the first Secretary-General.