Thuwal: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) highlighted the role of universities in accelerating innovation and economic growth, enhancing sustainability, preserving culture, and boosting global collaboration during the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit 2025, hosted for the first time in the Middle East at KAUST.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the three-day summit, which brings together approximately 750 participants from 28 countries, reflects the diversity, inclusivity, and global character of the event, focusing on the importance of international cooperation in developing higher education and scientific research. It also explores how universities can adapt and evolve to address shared global challenges and prepare future generations for a rapidly changing world.
The summit brought together leaders from universities, policymakers, industry figures, and academics from around the globe, including KAUST President Sir Edward Byrne, Chief Global Affairs Officer at Times Higher Education Phil Baty, and 105 keynote speakers representing 75 institutions worldwide. Women represent 38% of the speakers, while over 90% come from Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, the Americas, and Asia, reflecting the summit's regional significance and global impact.
Discussions during the sessions focused on redefining the mission of universities beyond being centers of education to becoming dynamic agents of progress and innovation.
Hosting the summit underscores KAUST's mission-driven role in supporting Saudi Arabia's priorities in research, development, and innovation under the Saudi Vision 2030, in fields such as human health, environmental sustainability, leadership in energy and industry, and future economies. Through its strategic location on the Red Sea and its global research partnerships, KAUST continues to help shape the future of higher education worldwide.