The Gulf University inaugurated the Second International Conference on Advanced Multidisciplinary Science and Engineering, organized by the College of Engineering on Wednesday, May 8, at the Art Rotana Hotel in Amwaj Islands. The conference was held in collaboration with the University of Northampton in the UK, a strategic partner of Gulf University, Cardiff Metropolitan University in the UK, and Management and Science University (MCU) in Malaysia, with the participation of 320 peer-reviewed scientific papers.
During the conference, Her Excellency Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Al-Jahrami, Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council, emphasized the Council's commitment to supporting all scientific practices and activities that enhance the higher education and research system in Bahrain. She highlighted the importance of linking scientific research to professional practices in the industrial sector, which contributes to providing the necessary skills aligned with the labor market's needs, particularly in the fields of innovative technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development goals through international cooperation in qualitative research.
Professor Mona bint Rashid Al-Zayani, Chair of the University Board of Trustees, stated that the university is keen on promoting scientific research, organizing conferences, and publishing peer-reviewed journals to enhance the academic environment and contribute to graduating generations interested in scientific research. She noted that such conferences help develop students' research, organizational, and communication skills.
Professor Al-Zayani also mentioned the university's commitment to practices that align with its goals, aiming to enhance the educational process, improve program quality, refine student skills, and elevate the educational landscape to meet the labor market's demands.
Professor Mohannad Al-Mashhadani, President of Gulf University, highlighted that the conference aligns with the Higher Education Council's strategy for 2014-2024, which serves as a crucial reference for Gulf University's research strategy. He expressed gratitude to His Excellency Dr. Muhammad bin Mubarak Jumaa, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Higher Education Council, for his continuous support for the higher education sector.
He affirmed Gulf University's efforts to enhance a distinguished higher education system, conduct impactful research, and provide community services through various means. He stressed that technology, engineering, and their applications will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of economic development and industrial growth in the coming years, emphasizing the necessity for universities, researchers, companies, and individuals to embrace emerging technologies and navigate the changes they bring.
He indicated that this commitment motivated Gulf University to organize the conference to boost Bahrain's economy through scientific research that adds value to the global knowledge-based economy. He noted the university's launch of new academic programs reflecting the needs of the Bahraini economy, including a recently introduced bachelor's degree in digital advertising and marketing and a master's degree in human resource management, both hosted by the University of Northampton, as well as the inauguration of a master’s program in business administration with four tracks.
The ICSEAT 2024 conference aims to provide a platform for researchers, academics, and professionals from around the world to share their knowledge, ideas, and the latest research findings on technology, engineering, and applications.
Dr. Mohammed Al-Sheikhly, Chair of the Conference Organizing Committee and Chair of the University Research Council, noted that this conference plays a pivotal role in developing the scientific and technological landscape in Bahrain by providing a platform for Bahraini researchers to present their work alongside their international counterparts. This enhances collaborative efforts and supports sustainability goals in Bahrain by encouraging research and innovations focused on sustainable technology and environmental management.
He pointed out that this significant event represents a collaborative effort alongside prestigious institutions such as the University of Northampton, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and Management and Science University, reflecting a broad international partnership.
He added that sessions dedicated to sustainability practices, renewable energy technologies, and sustainable urban development were designed to align with Bahrain's national vision concerning environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
The conference aims to connect Bahraini innovators with global experts and showcase their work, helping integrate sustainable practices into local industries and inspiring a new generation to pursue environmentally focused projects.
Dr. Al-Sheikhly mentioned that the conference employed a rigorous peer-review mechanism, handling a large volume of submitted research papers totaling 393, with a 78% acceptance rate, highlighting the commitment to academic excellence and presenting only the most urgent and innovative research.
The conference featured 310 research papers from researchers representing 28 countries, underscoring the global scope and diversity in the fields of advanced science, engineering, and technology. This gathering serves as a testament to the vibrant exchange of ideas and expertise across continents.
The conference also hosts four distinguished keynote speakers: Dr. Funmi Obimpe, Dr. Fiona Carroll, Dr. Musab Aswad, and Professor Anne Louise, whose presentations are expected to provide deep insights significantly contributing to the understanding of developments in advanced science, engineering, and technology.
Her Excellency Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Al-Jahrami, Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council, emphasized that the Council values the collaboration among various entities involved in developing the higher education system in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This collaboration aims to prepare a generation of youth equipped to face the challenges of the era, providing young minds with the necessary tools and capabilities to succeed in the job market and contribute to sustainable development in the Kingdom.
This statement was made during her participation in the opening of the American Corner at the Arab Open University, attended by His Excellency Mr. Steven Bondy, the U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain, along with a number of higher education leaders, diplomatic missions, and business sector representatives in Bahrain.
In her speech, Dr. Al-Jahrami highlighted the role of the American Corner in creating a space for creativity, where students and graduates can explore their potential and broaden their horizons by gaining access to information and technology. She stressed the importance of empowering individuals to become active participants in the global knowledge economy. She added, "The Higher Education Council recognizes the significance of initiatives that enhance collaboration between academic institutions and partners both inside and outside the Kingdom, as these initiatives positively impact society by opening doors to new ideas, perspectives, and concepts."
For his part, Mr. Steven Bondy expressed his delight at the opening of the American Corner and emphasized the importance of cooperation between the university and the U.S. Embassy in various fields. He stated, "The American Corner is a symbol of the partnership between the United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain and will help enhance cultural exchange between the two countries, providing new opportunities for Bahraini youth to learn and grow." He thanked Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Al-Jahrami for her efforts in advancing higher education in Bahrain.
Professor Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Zakri, President of the Arab Open University in the Arab World, delivered a speech thanking His Excellency Dr. Muhammad bin Mubarak Jumaa, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Higher Education Council, and Dr. Al-Jahrami for their support in successfully implementing the plans and programs of the Arab Open University in Bahrain. He praised all efforts that contributed to the establishment of the American Corner, especially the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain. He highlighted the importance of the Corner in strengthening cooperation between the university and the embassy in various fields, particularly in preparing Bahraini youth and serving the local community.
Dr. Gharamallah bin Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, President of the Arab Open University in Bahrain, also spoke about the idea behind establishing the American Corner and the supporting efforts that brought the idea to fruition. The American Corner aims to focus on several key areas, including cultural exchange, employment skills, and entrepreneurship. It is designed to serve these fields practically, acting as a fundamental pillar for cooperation between the university and the embassy on projects targeting the preparation of graduates for the job market.
The ceremony concluded with a tour of the American Corner, where attendees explored its various sections, programs, and activities that will be offered.
Her Excellency Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Al-Jahrami, Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council, participated in the second meeting of the Permanent Committee of Research and Innovation Officials of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This meeting was organized by the General Secretariat of the GCC in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Qatar.
During the meeting, projects, plans, and mechanisms to enhance scientific research and innovation were discussed, along with investment in knowledge and expertise among member states through research funds, research centers, and collaborative scientific activities. These efforts aim to promote a culture of scientific research and innovation according to the research priorities of the GCC countries.
Dr. Al-Jahrami emphasized the importance of supporting priority scientific research outputs in the Gulf region and finding common solutions across various research fields. She highlighted the need to transform these outputs into products that benefit the member states and keep pace with rapid changes in various scientific disciplines.
On the sidelines of the meeting, committee members visited Qatar Science and Technology Park, where they learned about the center's experience in incubating technology companies and supporting scientific research across multiple fields.
Her Excellency Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Al-Jahrami, Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council, emphasized the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment to enhancing the outcomes of higher education institutions and providing diverse learning opportunities focused on experiential learning. She highlighted the importance of ensuring inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in education, as well as refining transferable skills to prepare students for the needs of the job market and to keep pace with the rapid developments in information digitization and the internationalization of education.
This was stated during her participation in the high-level roundtable meeting on the development of higher education, organized by the Ministry of Education of the United Arab Emirates as part of the second session of the Future of Education Forum during the World Government Summit 2024 held in Dubai. She attended on behalf of His Excellency Dr. Muhammad bin Mubarak Jumaa, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Higher Education Council.
The discussions at the roundtable focused on several topics aimed at effectively developing the future of higher education to meet learners' needs. This includes preparing them for the job market by equipping them with the necessary skills and experiences, as well as developing curricula that enhance critical thinking, innovation, entrepreneurship, and teamwork among students.