An-Najah University Forum Charts Strategic Transitions in Security and Education for 2025–2029

The Second Annual Forum of the Higher Council of An-Najah University for Arab and International Security and Studies served as a critical platform for discussing future development trajectories that move beyond conventional methodologies. Held from November 2 to 4, 2025, the event was presided over by His Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, the Saudi Arabian Minister of Interior. The primary objective of the gathering was to accelerate advancements in both security research and academic pursuits across the Arab region.

Central to the discussions were the strategic transitions mapped out for the 2025–2029 period. Significant emphasis was placed on broadening the university's academic offerings and diversifying its research portfolio. This drive aligns with the overarching mission to solidify An-Najah University’s standing as the premier Arab hub for advanced technical education and security-related studies. As a public institution, the university aims not only to disseminate knowledge but also to equip young people with the essential skills required for professional achievement and personal growth, while simultaneously fostering a culture of scholarly excellence.

Crucial milestones were established during the forum, including the commitment to adopt international benchmarks for academic training programs by the year 2030. Specifically, the standards set by the American Council on Continuous Education and Training (ACCET) were formally approved. This decisive step underscores the institution's readiness to integrate global best practices into the local educational environment, a move widely viewed as a catalyst for growth and a significant enhancement of educational quality.

The forum concluded with a graduation ceremony honoring 43 participants in the advanced studies program, representing 11 distinct Arab states. These specialists earned qualifications spanning vital fields such as law, technology, and security. The underlying methodology for these programs emphasizes progressive education focused on unique, cutting-edge approaches designed to cultivate a global perspective. This outcome perfectly complements the university’s broader strategy of transforming into an “innovative and smart university,” where artificial intelligence is seamlessly integrated into every facet of operations, from curriculum design to administrative management.

Further demonstrating its commitment to innovation, An-Najah University created the position of Vice President for Innovation and Artificial Intelligence, becoming the first institution in the region to take such a pioneering step. Beyond high-level strategic planning, the university actively invests in human capital through continuing education initiatives. The An-Najah Retraining and Rehabilitation Center provides comprehensive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in high-demand sectors like IT, electrical installation, and air conditioning, ensuring participants gain relevant competencies for sustainable employment. Furthermore, addressing regional educational challenges, the university previously launched the TESI project to support students from Gaza through virtual learning and international collaboration, highlighting its strong sense of social responsibility.