GCC affirms education as the cornerstone of regional development
Khaled Al-Sunaidi
KUWAIT: Assistant Secretary General for Economic and Development Affairs at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Khaled Al-Sunaidi affirmed on Sunday the high priority Gulf leaders place on education, stressing it as a central pillar in shaping a brighter future for upcoming generations. Speaking at a preparatory meeting of undersecretaries of ministries of higher education and scientific research from GCC member states, Al-Sunaidi underscored that education features prominently in the visions and directives of Their Majesties and Highnesses, who recognize it as a key driver of progress and innovation.
The meeting, held in advance of the 25th session of GCC Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research — set to convene in Kuwait on Monday — focused on aligning regional educational strategies with shared development goals. Al-Sunaidi described education as a transformative tool capable of empowering individuals to meet the challenges of modern technology and rapidly evolving global trends. He pointed out that during its 45th session, the Supreme Council approved the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs 2025-2028, a plan that aims to safeguard Gulf societies and will also be reviewed during the ongoing discussions.
Among the key issues addressed at Sunday's meeting were equal access and treatment for GCC citizens in universities and higher education institutions, the future outlook of higher education, and the development of regulatory frameworks that reflect the ambitions of Gulf states. Delegates also examined the strategic plan for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the academic sphere. Al-Sunaidi noted that global challenges, particularly those related to cybersecurity, are also on the agenda. He emphasized the importance of cultivating highly skilled professionals and fostering international collaboration by leveraging leading global practices in higher education and research.
He expressed hope that the preparatory meeting would pave the way for fruitful deliberations in Monday's ministerial session, which will focus on key priorities including improving educational quality, modernizing curricula, and further integrating educational policies among GCC member states. The 25th meeting of GCC Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research is expected to chart a unified path forward to enhance the sector's role in regional development and innovation. — KUNA
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