As part of efforts to strengthen academic and research cooperation among universities and higher education institutions in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries,
His Excellency Prof. Hamed bin Manawer Al-Shammari, Vice President of Al Jouf University for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research,
chaired the 28th preparatory meeting of the Committee of Vice Presidents and Deputy Presidents of GCC Universities and Higher Education Institutions,
hosted by Al Jouf University on Monday, October 20, 2025,
in the presence of a number of distinguished university vice presidents from GCC countries and Eng. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Rubaie,
Head of the Human and Environment Affairs Sector at the General Secretariat of the GCC.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Al-Shammari emphasized that hosting this meeting reflects Al Jouf University’s ongoing commitment to supporting the shared Gulf efforts in higher education and scientific research.
He noted that the gathering serves as an important platform for exchanging expertise and discussing mechanisms of academic integration among GCC universities, contributing to the realization of the GCC countries’ visions and aspirations for quality education and innovative research that supports sustainable development.

The meeting discussed several key topics of common interest, including the implementation of resolutions by GCC Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research,
follow-up on the recommendations of the previous meeting,
the GCC Information Database Project (JISR),
digital transformation and cybersecurity in higher education,
and academic initiatives designed to meet current and future labor market needs, in addition to the GCC e-communication platform “Khaliji Education”.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Prof. Al-Shammari highlighted the importance of joint Gulf collaboration in the fields of education, research, and innovation,
affirming Al Jouf University’s commitment to being an active partner in advancing GCC initiatives that promote academic and research excellence.
He also praised the efforts of the GCC General Secretariat and the participating universities in enhancing cooperation and academic integration across the region.

The meeting was marked by outstanding organization by Al Jouf University,
which was praised by participants for its warm hospitality, excellent coordination, and high level of professionalism,
reflecting the university’s dedication to the success of academic events and Gulf cooperation initiatives it hosts.