The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, represented by Minister Marwan al-Halabi, participated in the launch of the Arab Scientific Research Councils Union initiative at the headquarters of the Arab League General Secretariat in Cairo. The initiative, titled “Solidarity for the Future… Scientific Research Does Not Wait,” marks a significant step toward strengthening Arab cooperation in scientific research.
Aims of the Initiative
The initiative seeks to support and qualify researchers and academic institutions in countries affected by crises and conflicts by rehabilitating damaged research centers and improving access to global research resources through strengthened partnerships with researchers. It also aims to build a comprehensive database of researchers and their needs, representing an important step in supporting applied scientific research in crisis-affected areas and encouraging cooperation among Arab states in this field.
Halabi stated that the initiative represents support for scientific research and a bridge to the shared Arab spirit that views progress in any Arab country as part of the advancement of the entire nation. He highlighted the importance of creating an enabling environment in Arab universities for youth innovation and ensuring that the Arab scientific network becomes a platform for exchanging ideas and experiences.
He emphasized that Syrian researchers consider science the cornerstone of progress and noted that Syria continues to develop its academic institutions, digital transformation projects, and applied scientific research. Halabi affirmed that a free Syria will be an active partner in advancing joint Arab scientific efforts.
Discussing Areas of Scientific Cooperation
On the sidelines of the initiative’s launch, Halabi held bilateral meetings with Abdulmajid bin Ammar, Secretary-General of the Arab Scientific Research Councils Union, during which they discussed ways to strengthen scientific cooperation among Arab countries and support joint initiatives in scientific research.
He also met with his Sudanese counterpart, Ahmad Musa, and his Yemeni counterpart, Khaled al-Wasabi, to explore opportunities for expanding cooperation in higher education and scientific research and to discuss the provision of necessary facilities for Yemeni students pursuing their studies in Syrian universities.
This participation falls within the ministry’s efforts to raise the standard of education and enhance its standing locally and internationally as part of the broader development of the higher education and scientific research system. The Arab Scientific Research Councils Union began its work in 1977 under the umbrella of joint Arab action within the Arab League and includes all Arab countries represented by their respective scientific research bodies.
