ASU expands global presence at 2025 World University Presidents and Higher Education Forums in China

Applied Science University (ASU) participated in the 2025 World University Presidents Forum and the 2025 International Forum on Higher Education, held from 7th to 9th November 2025 at the Hangzhou International Expo Centerin the People’s Republic of China.

The event was jointly organised by the China Association of Higher Education and Zhejiang University, with the participation of more than 500 university presidents, decision-makers, and academic experts from around the world under the theme “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Higher Education.”

The university delegation was headed by Professor Waheeb Al-Khaja, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, accompanied by Professor Hatem Masri, the President of Applied Science University, and Mr Abdulla Al-Khaja, the President’s Advisor for Follow-up Affairs and Director of the Administrative and Financial Affairs Directorate.

This participation reaffirmed ASU’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation and building connections with prestigious higher education institutions in China and beyond. During the forum, Professor Hatem delivered a keynote speech in the parallel session on “AI Development and Innovation in Higher Education Governance”, titled “Applied Science University: Driving Equity through Digital Transformation.”

In his presentation, he highlighted the university’s strategic initiatives in digital governance, smart education, and inclusive practices that promote fairness and equal opportunities in higher education across the Arab region. ASU extended its sincere appreciation to the Higher Education Council in the Kingdom of Bahrain for its continued support in enabling Bahraini universities to participate in international academic events that contribute to improving quality and innovation in higher education.