Dr. Al-Jahrami: The Forum Aligns with National Objectives—We Encourage Universities to Integrate AI into Academic Programs and Research
Gulf University successfully concluded the Arab Forum on Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education, held in collaboration with Times Higher Education (THE) from the UK. The event took place on Tuesday, May 14, 2025, at the Gulf Hotel under the theme:
“AI in Higher Education: Accelerating Innovation Through Action.”
The forum was held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Al-Jahrami, Secretary-General and Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Higher Education Council in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and was attended by numerous university presidents and international experts.
The event attracted 387 participants from across the globe, representing a wide range of academic and industrial sectors. Attendees included university leaders, researchers, experts, and decision-makers from the GCC, the Arab region, Europe, and Asia. The forum served as a strategic platform bringing together Gulf University faculty with leading specialists in artificial intelligence and modern technologies to explore the practical applications of AI in university governance, the learning experience, and scientific research—aligned with the fast-paced digital transformation of the academic world.
In her opening speech, Dr. Diana Al-Jahrami highlighted the forum’s importance and its role in supporting Bahrain’s national strategies:
“This forum is highly significant as it aligns with national initiatives and the directives, we give to universities to focus on artificial intelligence. We support this field wholeheartedly. AI has become indispensable in education—essential for developing student skills and launching specialized academic programs.
Recently, we have licensed several AI-related programs.
Another key aspect is Gulf University’s partnership with Times Higher Education, which we consider a strategic ally. We’ve contracted THE to develop the national strategy for higher education and scientific research for the next ten years.
Universities are increasingly incorporating AI into curricula and research outputs, both locally and in peer-reviewed international journals. We fully support these efforts—through program licensing and scientific events. Bahrain is among the leading nations in establishing ethical frameworks for AI use in universities, embedded in both regulations and academic programs.”
Professor Mona bint Rashid Al-Zayani, Chairperson of the Board and Chair of the Board of Trustees of Gulf University, stated that hosting the forum reflects the Board’s commitment to supporting high-impact initiatives that elevate the university’s status as a regional leader in technology-integrated higher education:
“This forum marks a major turning point for education at Gulf University. Since our founding, our academic programs have been built on incorporating modern technologies—originally designed to meet the needs of the next 15 years. However, due to the accelerating pace of knowledge development, it has become necessary to reassess our programs at least every two years.
Keeping pace with these rapid changes demands agility, and that is a core part of our university’s mission. In addition to our collaboration with THE for global university rankings, we have implemented AI across all academic courses, recognizing it as the driving force behind every educational process.”
Professor Mohannad Al-Faras, President of Gulf University, affirmed that the forum reflects the university’s strategic commitment to integrating AI into all aspects of its academic ecosystem:
“Today, we are hosting experts from around the world who are delivering specialized workshops on AI in higher education, enabling us to extract maximum value from this transformative technology. We are currently experiencing a fourth industrial revolution that touches every aspect of life—and higher education is among the most affected. AI enhances teaching, learning, training, student support, and institutional development.
In Bahrain, we are witnessing strong digital transformation initiatives. At Gulf University, we have embraced AI not only in educational delivery but also in university management and assessment processes. Our academic staff have all undergone international training and received certifications in AI.
This forum showcases real-world experiences and encourages the exchange of knowledge both locally and internationally. Key topics include the development of human skills, the next generation of AI technologies in the coming three to four years, as well as AI’s role in entrepreneurship and the financial sector. We thank everyone who contributed and participated, and we look forward to impactful outcomes that will expand the use of AI and unlock its full potential.”
Mr. Lokesh Jethani, Regional Director for the Middle East at Times Higher Education, also expressed his appreciation for being part of the event:
“I am delighted to be here in the Kingdom of Bahrain, participating in this impactful forum hosted by Gulf University in partnership with Times Higher Education, and honored by the presence of Dr. Diana.
Today marks a transformative moment—AI is now part of our daily lives, especially in the Gulf region and particularly in Bahrain.
AI is reshaping our lives daily and transforming higher education—from how students learn to how institutions operate.
However, it is essential to apply AI in a sustainable and ethical way. Amid all this transformation, the human element remains irreplaceable.”
The forum addressed critical topics such as curriculum redesign, personalized and flexible learning experiences, and the role of social innovation in creating inclusive educational environments. It also featured case studies from leading universities successfully utilizing AI, with the aim of broadening adoption and enhancing the quality of higher education across the region.
EN 
AR 
