Sohar: The 3rd ALECSO Forum for Twinning Arab Universities began today at Sohar University in North Al Batinah Governorate. The forum is organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation in cooperation with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) and the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science.

According to Oman News Agency, the opening of the two-day event was held under the auspices of Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. Al Mahrouqi highlighted that the philosophy of the Productive University is based on an educational strategy that considers the actual reality of society, keeps pace with global challenges, and seeks to reduce the gap between the university and the labor market, and between theoretical and applied education. This is achieved by linking theory with practice and developing students’ thinking and problem-solving skills.

She further explained that the forum aims to exchange ideas, experiences, and knowledge, which contributes to launching institutional initiatives that support joint scientific research, development, and innovation, and activates partnerships between the academic, governmental, and industrial sectors. Furthermore, it aims to discuss the launch of an Arab initiative that enhances cooperation in developing the curricula and programs of Arab universities, facilitating their integration with production and service institutions in the Arab world.

The first day’s program included five main working sessions, which discussed several themes, including: The Productive University (concept, dimensions, and global models), the scientific knowledge and skills sought by the labor market, and the requirements for enhancing the role of universities in the industrial sector, with the participation of experts from various educational institutions.