Association of Arab Universities Holds ARELEN Governance Council and Advisory Council Meeting in Egypt

The Arab-European Leadership Network in Higher Education (ARELEN), affiliated with the Association of Arab Universities (AArU), held a joint meeting of its Governance Council and Advisory Council on 10 November 2026 at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, in the presence of H.E. Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture.

The meeting was chaired by H.E. Prof. Amr Ezzat Salama, Secretary-General of AArU and Chair of ARELEN’s Governance Council, with the participation of Prof. Mohamed Lotfy, President of the British University in Egypt and Vice-Chair of the Council, and Mr. David Lock, Secretary-General of ARELEN, alongside Arab and European academic leaders. AArU was represented by Ms. Lina Al-Bitar, Director General of Administration, and Mr. Ziad Amara, Director of International Relations.

Discussions focused on strengthening Arab-European cooperation in higher education and scientific research, developing institutional partnerships, exchanging expertise, and aligning educational outcomes with labour market needs. Participants highlighted the importance of translating international partnerships into practical joint initiatives, particularly in education, research, innovation, digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

The meeting also reviewed ARELEN’s White Paper, which outlines six strategic priorities:

Participants further explored the applications of AI in teaching, research and university administration, reviewed the Network’s ongoing activities, and discussed opportunities to advance joint initiatives between Arab and European institutions.

The meeting reflects AArU’s continued commitment to strengthening international academic networks, enhancing the global presence of Arab universities, and expanding meaningful partnerships with higher education institutions worldwide.