Majmaah University, represented by CIFAL Saudi Arabia, a member of the global CIFAL network affiliated with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, participated in the Global Learning Conference in Africa 2026, held in Kigali, Rwanda, from February 19 to 20, 2026. The conference brought together senior policymakers, university leaders, policy experts, and representatives from international organizations and the nonprofit sector.
The University’s engagement took place within a high-level side event organized by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research through the CIFAL Global Network in partnership with the Villars Institute and the Leaders in Higher Education Alliance and Programme for Accelerating Sustainability Transformations. Discussions focused on strengthening university leadership capable of driving institutional transformation and enhancing higher education readiness in response to artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and broader sustainable development priorities.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Michelle Gyles-McDonnough, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, expressed appreciation for Majmaah University and CIFAL Saudi Arabia, recognizing them as active academic partners in advancing leadership development and institutional transformation. She emphasized the importance of sustaining this collaborative momentum in the next phase of the initiative.
Dr. Aiman Albarakati, Director of CIFAL Saudi Arabia, represented the University at the event, participating in conference sessions and related discussions in support of expanding the University’s international engagement and fostering strategic partnerships aligned with sustainable development priorities.
This acknowledgment reflects the growing role of CIFAL Saudi Arabia as an active international partner in advancing university leadership and institutional transformation. The participation also aligns with the strategic vision of His Excellency Professor Saleh bin Abdullah Almazzal, President of Majmaah University, to strengthen the University’s global presence and reinforce its contribution to connecting international development agendas with national priorities, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030
