Prof. Shady Y. Al-Mashad, Advisor to the President of Benha National University for Digital Transformation and Dean of Computer Science College, represented the university at the Second International Conference on Universities and Artificial Intelligence Technology. Organized by the Arab Universities Union (AArU) in collaboration with the Chinese Higher Education Association (CAHE), the conference was held under the theme “How AI Reshapes the Future of Higher Education?” from 18–19 October 2025 in Amman, Jordan, under the patronage of the Jordanian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Prof. Tamer Samir, President of Benha National University, emphasized that the university’s participation reflects its commitment to academic openness and active engagement in global scientific forums. He highlighted the university’s clear vision for digital transformation and integrating AI into its educational and administrative systems to equip graduates with future-ready skills for local and global job markets.
He further noted that Benha National University is modernizing academic programs, upgrading technological infrastructure, and expanding digital training for students and faculty. These efforts aim to solidify the university’s position as a smart educational hub fostering innovation, creativity, and applied scientific research.
Prof. Shady Y. Al-Mashad participated in multiple panel discussions and scientific debates addressing AI’s role in advancing higher education, research, smart universities, digital governance, and enhancing academic institutions’ global competitiveness.
The conference attracted broad participation, including ministers of higher education, university presidents, and over 250 experts and academics from 15+ Arab and Chinese universities. It featured 50+ research papers, 4 keynote lectures, and 3 interactive sessions on governance, innovation, competitiveness, and strategic AI partnerships.
takeaways included the need to:
- Develop digital and ethical skillsfor faculty and students.
- Establish clear ethical frameworks for AI use to ensure fairness and transparency in education.
- Prepare graduates for future AI-driven careers.
Prof. Shady Y. Al-Mashad reiterated Benha National University’s commitment to aligning with global AI advancements and Egypt’s vision for building sustainable smart universities.
The conference concluded with a call to strengthen Arab-Chinese collaboration in joint research, knowledge exchange, capacity-building, and innovation to support the global digital transformation.