Doha:The Fifth UNESCO Conference on Higher Education in Arab States concluded with a strong emphasis on fostering continued dialogue and cooperation to enhance higher education systems in the region. The conference aimed to align with both regional and global changes.

According to Qatar News Agency, the conference, organized over two days by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE), UNESCO, and the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science (QNCECS), recommended enhancing regional and international cooperation. It also called for a reliable system for recognizing academic qualifications, responsible digital and AI transformation, and greater resilience during crises. Support for research and academic endeavors was also highlighted as a priority.

Held under the theme "The New Landscape of Learning in Higher Education in the Arab States," the conference addressed six primary themes. Discussions covered joint Arab institutional efforts to advance higher education, with significant insights from Dr. Hareb Al Jabri, Dr. Borhene Chakroun, Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar, and Dr. Kuanysh A. Yergaliyev.

The conference also launched the Arabic version of UNESCO's roadmap, "Transforming Higher Education A Global Ambition, a Shared Achievement," and discussed Qatar's experience in developing its National Qualifications Framework. Furthermore, the event examined higher education's role in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals and discussed responsible AI use in education.

The gathering, which included over 400 participants from 19 countries, featured university presidents, academics, researchers, and representatives from regional and international organizations. The discussions aimed to ensure sustainable funding, resource mobilization, and the promotion of innovation in higher education.