On behalf of His Excellency the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Azmi Mahafzah, the President of the German Jordanian University (GJU) and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Jordanian Universities Network (JUNet), Prof. Ala’aldeen Al-Halhouli, inaugurated the 15th International Conference of the Arab States Research and Education Network (e-AGE25) in Amman. The event gathered extensive participation from regional and international research and education networks, along with experts and academics from across the world.
Prof. Al-Halhouli conveyed the Minister’s greetings and deep appreciation for the importance of this conference and its outcomes, expressing pride in hosting this distinguished group of regional and international experts in Amman. He wished the organizers and participants continued success, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to supporting this strategically significant scientific event, which plays a vital role in strengthening research, innovation, and cooperation among academic and research institutions both regionally and globally.
Al-Halhouli emphasized that this year’s conference theme, “Uniting Minds”, reflects a profound understanding of the contemporary challenges that can no longer be addressed through individual efforts, but instead require collective thinking and a shared vision that harnesses technology in the service of humanity and sustainable development.
He highlighted that artificial intelligence is no longer merely a technical tool but a comprehensive knowledge platform reshaping education, research, and decision-making. He stressed that this technological leap must be grounded in a system of human and ethical values that safeguard privacy, uphold scientific integrity, and empower people rather than replace them.
Al-Halhouli added that Jordan’s hosting of this major international scientific event reflects its commitment to developing an advanced academic and digital ecosystem. He noted that JUNet has continued strengthening its technical and operational infrastructure over recent years by enhancing network connectivity, expanding data centers, broadening digital services, and linking Jordanian universities to international networks—efforts that support scientific research and advance the knowledge society.
He further explained that JUNet is steadily progressing toward a sustainable model for national research and education networks, one that meets the needs of universities and researchers, fosters regional and international partnerships, and aligns with the Economic Modernization Vision centered on building a digital knowledge economy that invests in people first.
The opening ceremony included remarks by several distinguished guests, including the Director General of the Arab States Research and Education Network (ASREN), Eng. Yousef Torman; the European Union Ambassador to Jordan, Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas; and a representative of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Eng. Ibrahim Al-Shadoukhi. A presentation was also delivered on the RedCLARA – BELLA II project for strengthening international cooperation, and the keynote speech was given by the Director General of RedCLARA, Dr. Luis Eliecer Cárdenas.
The ceremony concluded with the recognition of regional and international partners and technical supporters through the presentation of conference and ASREN shields.
The conference, organized by ASREN and hosted by the Jordanian Universities Network (JUNet) with the support of the European Union, aims to enhance regional and international scientific cooperation, explore ways to advance scientific research and higher education systems, and further develop the digital infrastructure that underpins innovation and knowledge.
e-AGE25 serves as a high-level platform for dialogue and networking among Arab universities, research institutions, and policymakers. It explores the future of regional scientific cooperation, showcases the latest global trends in innovation and research—particularly in energy, data, artificial intelligence, and communications—and highlights the role of research networks in enabling digital transformation and supporting open science.
The conference also dedicates special attention to empowering women in STEM fields through a dedicated track featuring successful experiences, pioneering initiatives, and contributions of emerging women researchers. Additionally, the “Next Generation Innovators” platform allows young researchers from across the Arab region to present cutting-edge research projects.
Featuring specialized sessions and interactive discussions, the conference aims to strengthen regional and international partnerships and promote best practices in developing digital research infrastructure, contributing to a more integrated and sustainable knowledge ecosystem in the region.
Organizers affirmed that e-AGE25 represents a strategic milestone in reinforcing Jordan’s position as a regional hub for scientific dialogue and innovation, serving as a platform that brings together minds and expertise to shape the future of scientific research in the Arab world amid rapid global technological and knowledge transformations.