الجامعـــة الوطنيـــة الخاصـــة

Launch of the First International Conference at the Al-Wataniya Private University

“Higher Education in Syria Towards Global Excellence”

The opening ceremony of the first international conference, “Higher Education in Syria Towards Global Excellence,” commenced at the Al-Wataniya Private University. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Mohammed Suwaid, Assistant Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research for Private Education Affairs, representing the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Attendees also included representatives from the Political Affairs Office in Hama, Mr. Samir Al-Barazi, Chairman of the Al-Wataniya Private Company for Science and Development, and Professor Dr. Mohammed Al-Amadi, Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees. The Al-Wataniya Private University was represented by its President, Professor Dr. Ahd Khazam, along with her deputies for academic and administrative affairs. The conference also hosted a distinguished group of leading academic experts, advisors, and specialists across various educational and professional fields.

The conference chairs, Professor Dr. Ahd Khazam, President of the National Private University, and Professor Dr. Abdulrahim Al-Sabouni, launched this significant academic event. The conference aims to chart a new roadmap for Syrian universities to secure their rightful place among global institutions by fostering shared objectives centered on deepening dialogue, laying the groundwork for productive discussions, and exchanging expertise to advance the evolution of learning and teaching. The conference focuses on two main themes:

• The Future Vision of Higher Education

• Lifelong Learning and Continuing Education Centers

Dr. Mohammed Suwaid, Assistant Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, inaugurated the conference with a speech emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to supporting Syrian universities—both public and private—through all possible means to enhance the quality of higher education and its outcomes. He highlighted that these efforts form the cornerstone of building Syria’s future, which today requires exceptional academic competencies to play a pivotal role in reconstruction, sustainable development, and elevating Syria’s regional and international standing.

On the significance of the “Higher Education in Syria Towards Global Excellence” conference, Mr. Abdullah Al-Ismail, representing the Political Affairs Office in Hama, delivered a speech stressing that globalizing higher education is not a mere intellectual luxury but an imperative in light of current challenges. He stated, “Syria has been stripped of its global, regional, and civilizational context, and today, we are here to restore Syria to the arena of civilizational competition through the efforts of its people.” He underscored the collective responsibility under the theme “How to Improve Higher Education” and its essence, “How to Rebuild Syria with the Minds of Its People,” who represent the greatest asset in the battle for progress and reconstruction.

Professor Dr. Ahd Khazam, President of the Al-Wataniya Private University, delivered a welcoming address, noting that the conference takes place amid rapid transformations, unprecedented challenges, and promising opportunities. She emphasized the role of higher education as an engine for development, innovation, and change, stating: “At the Al-Wataniya Private University, we believe education must transcend classroom boundaries to address the evolving needs of the labor market and actively contribute to building knowledge-based societies and a sustainable economy. This conference holds special importance as we focus on reconstruction and engineering a sustainable future for Syria as a primary goal.”

Conference co-chair Professor Dr. Abdulrahim Al-Sabouni, in his speech, highlighted the conference’s significance as a platform “built on a clear vision that bridges a rich academic heritage with promising future aspirations.” He described the event as “a forum for exchanging knowledge, discussing ideas, and exploring new horizons for collaboration and advancement in higher education through collective thinking, innovation, and renewal to ensure a more progressive and inclusive educational future.”

The first day of the conference featured the opening plenary session chaired by Dr. Hazem Melli, Head of the Scientific Committee and Vice President for Academic Affairs at the Al-Wataniya Private University. Key discussion points included:

• Globalization, Modernization, and International Trends through Academic Accreditation and Rankings

• Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: The Right Path Forward

• Modern Technologies: Proposing Collaborative Programs in Higher Education

• Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

The day was packed with insightful ideas, visions, and distinguished presentations, including three panel discussions led by academic professors. Topics ranged from “The Role of Higher Education in Rebuilding Syria” to “Engineering a Sustainable Future for Syria” and “Strengthening Foundational Education to Support Syria’s Future.” These discussions marked a concrete step toward building bridges—not only for knowledge exchange but also for sharing cultures and expertise—ultimately advancing Syrian higher education to global standards.