Abu Dhabi University Concludes Second International Conference on Education Uniting 250 Global Experts

Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) successfully concluded the 2nd ADU International Conference on Education at its Al Ain campus. The second edition of this conference brought together 250 global experts, educators, and policymakers to explore the evolving role of AI in transforming teaching and learning. Aligned with the vision of the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence and UN Sustainable Development Goals, this global platform aims at fostering collaborations that would steer the education sector toward a future powered by technology. 

The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the President of the UAE and Chancellor of United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), who emphasized the importance of cultural and academic institutions working hand in hand to shape a future-ready education system anchored in innovation and inclusion.

Held under the theme “Advancing Teaching Practices through AI”, the conference was organized by ADU in collaboration with leading institutions including UNESCO-RCEP, Queen Rania Teacher Academy, AdvanceHE, and the University of Florida. The comprehensive two-day event served as a strategic platform to explore the profound impact of AI on teaching, learning, and institutional leadership, while addressing some of the most urgent questions in education today. From leveraging AI to enhance accessibility for students of determination, to ensuring ethical frameworks are in place as AI becomes more embedded in curriculum design and assessment, discussions aligned closely with national and global priorities, which call for inclusive, tech-enabled, and future-ready education systems.

Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, commented: "AI is reshaping education worldwide, and ADU is committed to leading this transformation in the region. This annual dialogue highlights the power of collaboration, bringing together educators, policymakers, and global experts to share insights, tackle challenges, and co-create innovative approaches to AI in teaching and learning. As AI continues to redefine the way knowledge is delivered and absorbed, it is imperative for institutions to act as both adopters and shapers of these technological shifts. Such partnerships ensure our programs remain forward-looking, inclusive, and aligned with both global trends and national priorities, preparing students and educators to thrive in a rapidly evolving knowledge economy."

Keynote sessions were delivered by internationally recognized experts, including Dr. Ayman El-Baz of the University of Louisville, Dr. Islem Rekik from Imperial College London, and Ms. Vic Stephenson of Advance HE, among others. Their talks set the tone for forward-looking conversations on institutional readiness, AI literacy, and the critical balance between innovation and ethics. Complementing these were focused panel discussions and research presentations covering everything from AI in curriculum transformation to sustainable educational models and leadership in AI integration. 

Dr. Mohammad Fteiha, Conference Chair and Director of ADU’s Al Ain Campus, commented: "This conference reflects our commitment to creating inclusive, AI-enabled learning environments that prepare students for a rapidly evolving global landscape. By integrating AI into curriculum design and pedagogy, we empower educators and students to navigate and shape the future of education. This approach ensures our graduates are not only technically proficient but also capable of contributing meaningfully to the UAE’s knowledge-based economy and the broader global workforce."

The closing ceremony celebrated the achievements of participants and included the announcement of the Best Paper Awards, as well as a gala dinner in honor of the international guests and academic contributors. A post-conference cultural tour through Al Ain will be held on the third day, offering global participants a glimpse into the UAE’s rich heritage and commitment to inclusive development.

As the UAE accelerates its national AI strategy, ADU continues to play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of educators, researchers, and leaders who will shape the future of learning, not just in the emirates, but globally. Reinforcing this commitment, ADU has recently expanded its academic offerings to include new AI-focused programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, equipping students with the advanced skills and critical thinking needed to thrive in a technology-driven future.

To learn more about ADU, please visit the university’s website: www.adu.ac.ae.