Symposium Explores AI’s Role in Higher Education and the Future of Work

Birzeit University’s Center for Continuing Education, in collaboration with Al-Azhar University – Gaza, Palestine Polytechnic University, and An-Najah National University, hosted a symposium titled "AI Horizons: The Evolution of Higher Education Systems and the Future of Work." The event, held under the patronage of Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr. Amjad Barham, brought together representatives from academic institutions, government entities, and global technology companies, alongside international AI experts who joined via Zoom.

In his address, Minister Barham highlighted the devastating impact of the Israeli occupation on Palestinian academia, stating that over 100 prominent Palestinian academics and scientists have been killed. Despite this, he emphasized the resilience of Palestine’s education system, crediting artificial intelligence with enabling the resumption of learning in Gaza. "Hundreds of thousands are back to learning, with over 80,000 students enrolled in Gaza’s universities through virtual education," he noted.

Dr. Barham underscored technological advancement as a vital tool for global education, advocating for the integration of technology into learning to align with global trends. He emphasized that Palestine’s creative minds are eager to shape a better future.

Bank of Palestine representative Salim Hodali emphasized AI’s transformative role across all sectors, including finance, and noted the bank’s efforts to digitize services and support tech-driven entrepreneurial initiatives. Meanwhile, Osama Mimi, Director of Birzeit’s Center for Continuing Education, underscored the need for innovative educational policies that challenge traditional models and embrace AI’s potential.

The Role of AI in Higher Education and Workforce Development

Speaking on behalf of Birzeit University’s President, Dr. Asem Khalil stressed that the symposium comes at a pivotal moment, as AI drives a global digital revolution and reshapes economies.

Dr. Asem Khalil noted that the event is particularly significant as it addresses a strategic issue affecting all aspects of life—from education and employment to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Khalil reaffirmed Birzeit University’s commitment to strengthen its leading role by launching advanced academic programs that align with global developments and meet the needs of the changing labor market. Among these are:

A PhD program in Computer Science, with a focus on AI and software systems,

A Master’s program in Cybersecurity, designed to prepare specialists for emerging digital challenges.

He called for increased support for Gaza’s students, advocating for both expanded educational opportunities and greater access to advanced technological platforms. "The future of education in Palestine can only be fully realized if all Palestinians have the tools and resources needed to succeed," he asserted.

Additionally, he highlighted how AI is transforming education, work, and research, emphasizing that universities must lead these changes through: revising academic curricula and programs, enhancing faculty and staff skills, and investing in cutting-edge technological infrastructure.

He further stressed the importance of collaboration between academia and the private sector to develop innovative AI-driven solutions tailored to national needs. A unified vision, he argued, is essential for strengthening Palestine’s higher education system and preparing future leaders for sustainable development.

AI’s Role in Innovation and the Private Sector

Salim Hodali, representing the Bank of Palestine, discussed AI’s transformative potential across all sectors, emphasizing its role in delivering faster and more inclusive solutions.

He noted that the bank has actively been:

Digitizing financial services,

Investing in infrastructure to support start-ups and entrepreneurs,

Financing sustainable projects that drive technological advancement.

Fostering AI-Driven Education and Innovation

Osama Mimi, Director of the Center for Continuing Education at Birzeit University, highlighted the center’s long-standing commitment to bridging academic knowledge with societal needs.

He outlined its focus on:

Advancing education and learning,

Supporting entrepreneurship and small businesses,

Enhancing professional capacities for students, graduates, and employees across institutions.

Mr. Mimi emphasized AI’s critical role in shaping all fields and called for bold educational policies that challenge conventional norms while embracing AI-driven transformation.

Insights from International Experts

Joining via Zoom, Professor V. Juggy Jagannathan from West Virginia University discussed AI’s future in education, employment, and research, highlighting opportunities for positive global impact.

Panel Discussions and Key Themes

The symposium featured four panel discussions:

AI and the Future of Higher Education,

The Roadmap for Universities in the Digital Era,

The Ethical and Responsible Use of AI,

Preparing Students for the Future of Work.

The event concluded with a ceremony honoring the symposium’s sponsors.