The Third Arab University Twinning Forum was convened on November 12–13, 2025 at Sohar University, under the theme of “The Productive University.” 

Chaired by H.E. Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar, Director-General of ALECSO, the Forum was convened under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al-Mahrooqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation of the Sultanate of Oman. 

The Forum was organized in collaboration with Sohar University and the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science.

The Forum brought together over 100 university presidents from 16 Arab countries, experts in higher education, scientific research, and the industrial sector, as well as representatives from relevant Arab and international institutions. It was designed to promote Arab university integration and support transition to the productive university model.

Addressing the Forum, the Director-General noted that the Arab University Twinning Project is one of ALECSO’s flagship initiatives designed to develop the higher education system in the Arab region. He highlighted the importance of learning from global experiences and harnessing scientific research in the service of development. He took this opportunity to commend the progress achieved by the Sultanate of Oman as part of the “Oman Vision 2040”, considering Sohar University’s hosting of this event a step that supports efforts to advance Arab universities.

The Forum’s program featured five sessions that addressed a range of themes including : investment in research outputs, labor market requirements, and academic and industrial partnerships, in addition to showcasing successful experiences from Arab and international universities. 

Several cooperation agreements were signed during the Forum which concluded with practical recommendations for building an integrated Arab model of “Productive University”.

At the close of the event, participants commended the Forum’s excellent organization and significant outcomes that  fully align with ALECSO’s vision of empowering Arab universities to play a larger role in innovation and development.