Doha, November 04, 2026 : The Fifth UNESCO Conference on Higher Education in Arab States concluded in Doha on Tuesday with recommendations to strengthen regional and international cooperation, improve academic qualification recognition and advance higher education systems in response to evolving regional and global challenges.
Held over two days under the theme “The New Landscape of Learning in Higher Education in the Arab States,” the conference was organized by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE), UNESCO and the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science (QNCECS).
The discussions resulted in recommendations covering responsible digital transformation and the use of artificial intelligence (AI), greater resilience in times of crisis, sustainable funding, and increased support for research, academics and researchers.
The conference addressed six key themes through sessions featuring representatives of regional and international education organizations, universities and academic institutions.
The opening session examined joint Arab efforts to develop higher education. Speakers highlighted priorities including quality assurance, effective governance, digital transformation and academic mobility. Discussions also addressed differences between academic systems, limited research coordination and the need for stronger university partnerships and a shared regional vision.
Participants further emphasized the importance of sustainable funding and resource mobilization to maintain higher education services, particularly in countries affected by conflicts and crises.
Another session saw the launch of the Arabic version of UNESCO's roadmap, “Transforming Higher Education: A Global Ambition, a Shared Achievement.” Discussions focused on the revised Arab Convention on the Recognition of Higher Education Studies, Certificates and Degrees, which seeks to build trust between education systems and facilitate academic mobility.
Qatar's experience in developing its National Qualifications Framework was also presented, highlighting efforts to enhance academic quality and align qualifications with national and international standards. Participants additionally discussed the potential for a regional Arab platform to facilitate information exchange and strengthen integration among higher education institutions.
Other sessions explored the contribution of higher education and research to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 4.3 and 9.5, with discussions focusing on evidence-based policymaking, national research systems and partnerships that expand access to education and encourage innovation.
The responsible use of AI in teaching, learning, research and institutional governance was another key topic. Participants examined ethical considerations, digital skills, quality assurance and inclusion, drawing on UNESCO's AI policy guidance and competency framework.
The conference also addressed student health, well-being and resilience, highlighting the importance of supportive university environments and helping students manage academic pressures and crises. Speakers shared experiences from Qatar, Oman and Palestine on maintaining student well-being and ensuring educational continuity during challenging circumstances.
The final session examined changing labour market needs, graduate employability, entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as the role of technical and vocational education in preparing students for emerging industries and digital transformation.
More than 400 participants from 19 countries attended the conference, including university presidents, academics, researchers, practitioners, experts and representatives of regional and international organizations.
Source: QNA
