Amman, May 4 (Petra) – The University of Jordan inaugurated its 5th Erasmus+ International Staff Week on Sunday under the theme "Bridging Cultures, Strengthening Partnerships, and Advancing Sustainability in Higher Education." The event, organized by the university’s International Affairs Unit, brings together 60 representatives from 23 universities across 13 countries, fostering international dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of sustainable academic partnerships.

University President Nathir Obeidat underscored the institution’s commitment to advancing internationalization, aligning with Erasmus+ goals to promote academic mobility and establish a high-quality and sustainable framework for education and training. He described Erasmus+ as more than a program it is a concept that connects people across cultures and backgrounds through collaborative initiatives, such as joint master’s and doctoral programs, which help raise the academic profile of institutions and foster innovation.

Obeidat also emphasized the importance of shared objectives in digital transformation, green transition policies, equal opportunity, and innovation ecosystems. He called for intensified collaboration to bridge the digital divide and tackle global challenges through interdisciplinary cooperation.

EU Ambassador to Jordan, Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas, praised the successful partnership between the University of Jordan and Erasmus+, describing the program as a national success story. He noted that 600 to 800 Jordanians benefit annually from Erasmus+ academic exchange opportunities.

Ahmad Abu El-Haija, director of the Erasmus+ National Office in Jordan, highlighted the university’s position as a leading beneficiary of Erasmus+ programs in the country, citing numerous successful collaborations with European universities that have enhanced the quality of higher education in Jordan.

Sameh Al-Zubiedi, director of the International Affairs Unit, noted that the university’s international initiatives align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He announced the launch of the first joint doctoral program with Hamburg University of Technology, a direct outcome of Erasmus+ cooperation. The university currently holds over 250 agreements and MoUs with more than 200 institutions in 60 countries, with 75% of its European partnerships formed through Erasmus+.

He also reported a record number of 200 student and staff exchanges during 2024 and 2025, made possible through more than 85 active mobility partnerships.

The five-day program features activities aimed at strengthening academic networks and fostering cross-cultural engagement. Highlights include panel discussions, experience-sharing sessions among partner universities, presentations by Erasmus+ alumni, sustainability-focused events, university tours, and networking meetings with university leadership.

The week will culminate with an international university fair on Wednesday, showcasing promotional materials and potential areas for academic cooperation, followed by a closing ceremony and certificate distribution.

//Petra// AF

04/05/2025 23:13:09