KUWAIT, 22nd April, 2025 (WAM) -- Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, delivered a keynote address at the QS Higher Ed Summit: Middle East 2025, held from 20th to 22nd April at the Gulf University for Science and Technology in Kuwait.

Organised by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, the summit brought together international higher education leaders to discuss the role of universities in shaping Society 5.0. The discussions focused on inclusive growth, critical thinking, and the ethical integration of technology in academia and industry.

Al Naimiy spoke at the opening forum, Leading with Distinction: University Excellence for the Future, alongside regional university presidents and education experts. He outlined the University of Sharjah's 2025-2030 strategy, which promotes integration between research and education, adapts to digital transformation, and drives sustainable academic and research practices.

He announced that the University will offer around 150 academic programmes beginning in September, with over 60 percent dedicated to postgraduate studies. All programmes are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education, and 80 percent have international academic accreditation.

Al Naimiy also highlighted the University's efforts to adapt teaching approaches for Generation Z students. He pointed to the Institute of Leadership in Higher Education, which supports faculty in developing digitally focused teaching methods that align with the expectations of today's learners.

He emphasised the University's partnerships with industry and government, noting how graduate students engage in applied research projects that address practical challenges. These collaborations reinforce the University's role as a driver of knowledge generation aligned with community needs.

In closing, Al Naimiy affirmed the University's commitment to the Quadruple Helix model, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, government and society to shape a sustainable future.

The QS Summit is a leading international forum that convenes higher education leaders to explore the future of academia. This year's edition focused on reshaping universities for Society 5.0, with sessions on digital transformation, academic leadership, workforce skills and global research partnerships.