For the very first time, the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit 2025 was held in the Middle East, in partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia, from October 7 - October 9, 2025. Mr. Ishtiaque Abedin, Founder Member, Board of Trustees and Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, and Ms. Dulce Lamagna, members of the Board of Trustees of the American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) attended the Opening Ceremony of the Summit. Representatives from AIUB joined academic leaders, policymakers, and innovators from around the world at this prestigious gathering, which focused on the theme of “Universities as Agents of Progress, Innovation, and Global Leadership.”

The summit opened with inspiring addresses from distinguished speakers including Mr. Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer of THE, who emphasized the importance of academic summits as platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and shared innovation that drive societal progress. He highlighted the vital role of universities in fostering partnerships and generating ideas that transform communities across the globe.

H.E. Einas S. Al-Eisa, Vice-Minister of Education for Saudi Arabia, delivered a thought-provoking address on the global decline in the perceived reputation of higher education. Drawing on recent research, she called attention to the challenges faced by universities worldwide in maintaining public trust and relevance. She urged that Saudi Arabia must not see itself as an exception but as a nation with the opportunity to lead change through innovation, quality education, and global engagement.

H.E. Al-Eisa also discussed Saudi Arabia’s strategic initiatives to strengthen its higher education sector through international collaborations with countries such as Finland and Singapore, as well as partnerships with institutions like the University of Chicago. These initiatives, which include the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and K–12 programs, aim to elevate educational quality, foster research excellence, and enhance global competitiveness.

A highlight of the summit was the exclusive unveiling of the THE World University Rankings 2026, followed by an insightful masterclass from THE’s data team that explored key trends shaping the future of global higher education.

AIUB’s participation in this landmark event reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to global academic engagement, innovation, and leadership. By joining such influential forums, AIUB continues to align itself with international best practices and contributes to the evolving conversation on higher education’s role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable world.