King Abdulaziz University (KAU) participated in the 2025 Times Higher Education Global Summit, held under the theme “Universities as Catalysts for Progress.” Hosted by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), the summit gathered more than 750 participants and 105 speakers from 75 leading institutions across 28 countries. The event concluded on Thursday, October 9.

At its pavilion, KAU highlighted its latest achievements in scientific research and innovation aligned with Saudi Arabia’s national development goals. Representing the university were three student ambassadors — Waleed Abu Al-Hassan from the Faculty of Engineering, Fadia Ashmawi from the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology, and Abdullah Al-Qarni from the Faculty of Earth Sciences. Their participation underscored KAU’s commitment to empowering students, fostering academic exchange, and showcasing the impact of Saudi higher education on the global stage.

KAU President Dr. Tareef Alaama joined a high-level panel discussion titled “The Future of Medicine and Public Health.” The session explored how universities can advance global health through innovative academic programs, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Discussions emphasized the vital role of academia in shaping resilient healthcare systems, addressing pandemics and chronic diseases, and integrating artificial intelligence into health education to prepare the next generation of professionals.

On the sidelines of the summit, King Abdulaziz University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with KAUST to enhance joint cooperation in research and technological innovation. The partnership aims to strengthen both institutions’ contributions to the Kingdom’s innovation-driven economy and elevate their standing regionally and internationally.