The Faculty of Media at Yarmouk University announces the opening of applications for the Shireen Abu Akleh Scholarship for pursuing a Master’s degree in Media for the Second Semester of the Academic Year 2025/2026, for the fourth consecutive year.
According to the announcement, the scholarship covers admission and registration fees, as well as tuition fees for accredited credit hours, excluding remedial and repeated courses.
Applicants of all nationalities are eligible to apply. Scholarship recipients will be admitted to the thesis track, provided that their thesis focuses on Palestinian media issues, or highlights the impacts of the occupation and the suffering of the Palestinian people in political, economic, social, health, or cultural fields.
The University’s Board of Trustees had previously approved this scholarship in honor of the late journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, who was killed by Israeli gunfire while carrying out her humanitarian and professional fieldwork in Jenin refugee camp. Abu Akleh was also one of the university’s distinguished graduates from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Class of 1991.
Yarmouk University and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish an advanced laboratory for designing and manufacturing video games on the university campus. This initiative falls within the framework of implementing the National Strategy for Electronic Games and Sports (2023–2027) and aligns with the vision of economic modernization and the ministry’s efforts to support digital skills and creative industries.
The memorandum, signed by Yarmouk University President, Professor Dr. Malek A. Alsharairi, and the Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, Eng. Sami Smairat, aims to provide students with a comprehensive educational and training environment that contributes to refining their practical skills and enhancing the alignment of their academic specializations with the requirements of the digital sector labor market.
Under the memorandum, the ministry will provide the laboratory with the necessary equipment and technologies for designing and developing video games, in addition to collaborating with the university in organizing training workshops and specialized technical events. This comes especially in light of Yarmouk’s recent establishment of the “Digital Reality and Game Development” program, reflecting the university’s academic and logistical readiness to support this vital field.
Alsharairi expressed his pride in the partnership with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, emphasizing that Yarmouk University was among the first universities to introduce programs that keep pace with global technological developments. He noted that establishing this laboratory represents a qualitative addition to the university’s academic and research journey and enhances its ability to graduate competent professionals capable of competing in digital markets.
For his part, Minister Smairat affirmed that the signing of this memorandum comes as part of the ministry’s initiative to expand partnerships with Jordanian universities, aiming to empower youth and enhance their opportunities in the digital economy. He pointed out that the video game industry has become a promising sector, offering genuine creative opportunities that contribute to supporting the national economy.
He added: “This industry is no longer a luxury; it has become a strategic field that requires investment in youth talent and linking education with market demands”.
This initiative comes as part of the ministry’s efforts to promote digital innovation across various governorates, in alignment with Yarmouk University’s vision of supporting university students and fostering their creative and entrepreneurial ideas. It provides an opportunity to transform these innovative ideas into technological products that can be developed and marketed locally and regionally, contributing to establishing Jordan as a regional hub for the video game and electronic sports industry in the region.
The signing of the memorandum was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology and Computer Science, Professor Dr. Qassem Al-Radaideh; the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Professor Dr. Ali Al-Rubaieat; and Professor Dr. Amjad Al-Fahoum from the Hijjawi Faculty for Engineering Technology.
Yarmouk University President, Professor Dr. Malek A. Alsharairi, and Chairman of the Irbid Chamber of Industry, Hani Abu Hassan, discussed ways to strengthen mutual cooperation by aligning academic outcomes with the needs of the industrial sector in Irbid Governorate.This took place during the meeting held at the Chamber of Industry building, attended by several members of the Deans’ Council, faculty members from various colleges, and members of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.During the meeting, emphasis was placed on the importance of strengthening the partnership between the university and the industrial and private sectors, in a way that aligns educational outputs and human resources with the needs of local, regional, and international labor markets.Alsharairi emphasized that this effective cooperation and networking with the Irbid Chamber of Industry reflects the essence of the nation’s renaissance through the development of the educational system. He noted that Yarmouk University, with its comprehensive academic programs and specializations, stands out as a distinguished partner for collaboration with various sectors. He added that the university seeks to expand its scientific, research, and applied collaboration network with educational institutions, industrial sectors, and the private sector, contributing to the development of qualification and training programs in the field of entrepreneurship.He continued that, as part of Yarmouk University’s efforts to graduate a generation of Jordanian youth equipped with the technical and practical skills that enhance their competitiveness in the labor market, the university is preparing to begin admitting students to the Technical College, which will offer a variety of intermediate diploma programs. This initiative contributes to bridging the gap between academia and industry, a point that was also emphasized by His Highness Prince El Hassan bin Talal during his recent visit to Yarmouk University and Al-Hassan Industrial City.Alsharairi stressed the university’s efforts to implement the concept of dual study tracks, which allows students to combine study with work during the summer semester in collaboration and partnership with various industrial, tourism, healthcare, and educational entities. He also emphasized the university’s commitment to participating in any developmental agenda.He pointed out that the university’s “graduation projects” are among its key strengths that should be focused on and further developed by linking students with industrial sectors and start-up companies, thereby supporting their projects and enabling them to implement them in practice.For his part, Abu Hassan stated that strengthening the Chamber of Industry’s cooperation with educational institutions is a national necessity that contributes to enhancing the capabilities of Jordanian youth and refining their practical skills, thereby boosting their competitiveness in the labor market. He noted that the Chamber’s cooperation with Yarmouk University is one of the successful partnerships that should be nurtured and further developed, as it contributes to advancing both institutions across various fields.He reviewed the initiatives and programs that the Chamber is implementing to bridge the gap between academia and industry, including the field-training programs offered by the Chamber, which enable university students to strengthen their practical skills within their area of specialization by training in one of the participating companies or factories. He added that the Chamber also provides opportunities for students from various disciplines to train in industrial establishments affiliated with the Chamber, allowing them to gain proper practical and applied experience.Abu Hassan also pointed out that the Chamber offers workshops and training courses related to life skills and communication skills, which enable students to market themselves and enhance their chances of securing suitable employment after graduation. He affirmed that the industrial sector in Irbid considers the university a strategic partner, and that the Chamber looks forward to an effective partnership that ensures providing factories with qualified personnel who possess the skills that are truly needed in the labor market.During the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of reviewing and updating academic study plans to align with the modern technical and skill-based requirements of local industries. They also stressed the need to support graduation projects and scientific research at the university, as these efforts contribute to developing practical solutions to the challenges facing factories and industrial companies in Irbid.It is worth noting that the Deans’ Council had held its regular meeting at the Irbid Chamber of Industry, in support of Yarmouk University’s vision to strengthen partnership and communication with various national institutions.
On behalf of the President, Professor Dr. Malik A. Alshraireh, the Vice-President, Professor Dr. Amjad Dheifallah Al-Naser, participated in the opening ceremony of the Ministry of Education's First Scientific Conference titled "Modern Perceptions of Education Quality: Lessons Learned… Realities and Future Outlooks".
The conference proceedings were also attended by Professor Dr. Adnan Al-Attoum and Professor Dr. Ahmad Al-Sharifin from the Faculty of Educational Sciences.
Al-Attoum presented a research paper on digital transformation and its role in enhancing education quality. He identified the main challenges faced by digital transformation in schools, the proposed solutions to enhance digital infrastructure, develop teachers' competencies, raise cybersecurity, and reinforce national digital identity, in addition to showing the impact of technology in supporting learning outcomes and institutional outputs.
Al-Sharifin also presented a research paper entitled “The Psychological and Educational Dimensions of Digital Transformation and Their Role in Enhancing Education Quality.” His paper discussed motivation for digital learning, cognitive load, psychological well-being, social interaction, executive skills, and self-regulation. The role of the digital teacher, requirements for designing effective learning environments, and methods of digital assessment were among other issues the paper discussed.
It is worth mentioning that the participation of Yarmouk University in this conference is an indication of its engagement in contributing to the development of the educational sector in Jordan and keeping abreast with the educational and digital developments in this regard.
The Faculty of Tourism and Hotels at Yarmouk University received an academic delegation from the Higher National School of Tourism of Algeria as part of a scholarly visit aimed at exploring prospects for academic cooperation, exchanging expertise in the tourism and hospitality sectors, and learning about the Faculty's experience in obtaining international accreditation for the quality of tourism education from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO TedQual).
Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Saad Al-Saad, welcomed the Algerian delegation, stressing the importance of cooperation between Arab academic institutions in advancing tourism education and enhancing its role in supporting national economies. He presented an overview of the academic programs offered by the Faculty at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, along with its expertise in the quality assurance of tourism and hotel education and in developing programs according to the latest global practices.
The delegation expressed their gratitude to Yarmouk University for the level of organization and warm reception, praising the advanced standing of the Faculty of Tourism and Hotels in its educational structure and training infrastructure. They affirmed their aspiration for continued cooperation between the two institutions and for opening new horizons for academic partnership in the future.
During the meeting, both parties explored opportunities for cooperation in implementing joint research projects, faculty exchange, and the establishment of specialized short training programs (Micro-credentials) that serve the tourism and hospitality sectors in the two sisterly countries. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of student exchange and activating academic visits to contribute to developing their skills and enhancing their practical experience.
The visit included a guided tour of the Faculty and University facilities, which encompassed the Tourism and Hotel Reservations Laboratory, the simulation halls (travel and tourism office, hotel room, and front desk office), in addition to the Museum of Jordanian Heritage and the Hussein Bin Talal Library.
The delegation was also briefed on the practical training mechanisms for students and the programs linking academic theory with application, which the Faculty adopts to qualify professional cadres capable of competing in the labor market.
The meeting was attended by the Vice Dean, the Assistant Dean for Agreements, the Assistant Dean for Quality and Training Affairs, Heads of Departments, and a number of faculty members.
It is noteworthy that this visit aligns with Yarmouk University's vision to expand its regional and international partnerships, thereby enhancing the quality of education and training.
The Faculty of Medicine at Yarmouk University, through its Breast Cancer Early Detection Committee, welcomed a medical delegation from Harvard University’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which included several senior officials from the center.
The visit featured a scientific and medical meeting organized in cooperation with the Jordan Breast Cancer Program at the King Hussein Cancer Center. The event brought together specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer from Jordan University of Science and Technology, the Hashemite University, and the Ministry of Health.
During the meeting, members of the committee delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting the key achievements of the free breast cancer early detection clinic at the Faculty of Medicine. They noted that the clinic has successfully provided high-quality early screening services to a growing number of women from both the university and the local community. The discussion also addressed future plans to enhance the clinic’s efficiency, expand its services to reach a wider segment of beneficiaries, and strengthen awareness of the vital role that early detection plays in improving recovery outcomes.
The meeting also showcased major accomplishments of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in advancing breast cancer treatments, including progress in immunotherapy and targeted therapies. Participants further explored the impact of recent research on improving the quality of care provided to patients worldwide. A specialized scientific discussion session allowed experts to exchange experiences across educational, academic, research, and clinical domains.
At the conclusion of the visit, the delegation expressed appreciation for the Faculty of Medicine’s efforts in promoting public health awareness, emphasizing the importance of community initiatives that empower women to access early medical screening and safeguard their well-being.
Under the patronage of the Chairman of Yarmouk University’s Board of Trustees, Professor Mahmoud Al-Shayyab, and in the presence of the President of Yarmouk University, Professor Malek A. Alsharairi, the Faculty of Science organized a ceremony to honor Professor Hanan Malkawi and Professor Ahmad Al-Salman for their scientific and research achievements.
Al-Shayyab explained that Yarmouk University has always been, and will continue to be, a beacon of knowledge and a cradle of excellence, full with the achievements reflected through its graduates and researchers in various fields of knowledge. He emphasized that the Jordanian mind is capable of competing with the most distinguished minds in the world in order to contribute effectively to the progress of human civilization.
He added that the celebration of Malkawi and Al-Salman at the university is not just an individual celebration but a reaffirmation of Yarmouk University’s mission and its central role in supporting creative minds and pioneering researchers. He praised their scientific and research efforts, no less their steadfastness and perseverance, which helped elevate Jordan’s name in the sphere of international scientific research.
Al-Shayyab urged university students to seek excellence and leadership in academic and professional life and take the first steps toward future success. He stressed that what makes the difference in advancing and distinguishing Yarmouk University is everybody's efforts put together.
For his part, the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Moheeb Awwadneh, said that this day is a celebration honoring distinguished accomplishments, which have engraved Jordan’s name and Yarmouk University in letters of light in the skies of science and knowledge. He said Yarmouk University has always embraced distinction and encouraged innovation, and today it reaps the fruits of that belief through the achievements of two of its most distinguished professors. He added that what was being celebrated at the university were not only awards and published research but, more than that, living testimonies to the power of the Jordanian intellect and its capability to compete globally in academia.
Malkawi said she is glad for this recognition at the prestigious institution that nurtured her early academic beginnings and shaped her career. She said that this gathering is not a celebration but a message of loyalty to science. She added that she started her journey from Yarmouk University, and it will always stay her first home. She stressed that Yarmouk University is distinguished by its faculty, the leadership of its researchers, and the ambition of its students.
Al-Salman highlighted that the honor belongs to all who believe that scientific research is the bright path upon which nations walk to reach renaissance. He added that this honor is the beginning of the journey that motivates him to go on working.
He explained that achievement is never instantaneous but the result of years of learning and effort, a journey very famously filled with many stages that require hard work, patience, and determination—driven by the belief that impactful work demands time, dedication, and unwavering resolve.
At the end of the ceremony, Al-Shayyab honored Malkawi and Al-Salman for their scientific and research achievements. Of note is the fact that Malkawi just won the “Best Arab Scientist in Biotechnology for 2025” award in the area of microbial biotechnology, while Al-Salman managed to solve a mathematical problem that had been open since 1992.
Prof. Malek A. Alsharairi, President of Yarmouk University, sponsored the welcoming ceremony for newly admitted international students for the 2025/2026 academic year. The event was organized by the Deanship of Student Affairs and held at the Conferences and Seminars Building.
Alsharairi emphasized that Yarmouk University firmly believes in cultural diversity as a key value and a human and academic asset that enriches classrooms and broadens horizons for dialogue and critical thinking. He noted the university’s commitment to providing an inclusive and supportive campus environment that ensures international students’ academic and social integration, enabling them to adapt and settle smoothly from the moment they arrive in Jordan.
He added that since its establishment, Yarmouk University has opened its doors to all students seeking knowledge from Jordan and around the world. Addressing the international students, he said: “Your presence among us is a genuine addition to Yarmouk University and reflects the trust you place in your university, which will remain a safe and supportive academic home for you throughout your educational journey.”
Alsharairi stressed that the success of international students is considered the university’s success, noting that Yarmouk’s academic mission is closely tied to its human responsibility toward all its students. He called on the students to make their time at Yarmouk a journey of learning, growth, and self-discovery, and to build academic and human connections that last well beyond their years of study.
For his part, Prof. Ahmad Al-Sharifin, Dean of Student Affairs, expressed the university’s pride in its international students. He affirmed that cultural diversity is a fundamental pillar of Yarmouk University’s educational mission, and that the Deanship of Student Affairs works closely with various faculties and administrative units to ensure an environment that supports both academic and social integration for international students, easing their transition into university life.
He highlighted the deanship’s efforts in organizing student activities and meaningful programs that enhance interaction between international students and their Jordanian peers, enriching their academic experience with human and cultural dimensions. He also wished them success in achieving their academic goals.
Speaking on behalf of the international students, Diyar Muthar, a student from Iraq, expressed their happiness in joining the Yarmouk family and affirmed their commitment to excellence and success, hoping to return to their home countries equipped with knowledge and university degrees.
The ceremony included several artistic performances, such as a choral presentation by Indonesian students, a nasheed performance by Malaysian students, and a cultural segment by Syrian students. The event concluded with a poetry recital delivered by Mohamed Barakat, a student from Egypt.
Yarmouk University won the first place, among Jordanian universities, during the 21st National Sumo Robot Competition in the category of Best Programming, through its Robotics Team that includes students from the Hijjawi Faculty for Engineering Technology and the Faculty of Information Technology and Computer Science.
The team showed an excellent performance in programming, innovation, and practical application and deserved first place in this competition organized by Applied Science University.
The team members are Sara Al-Badr, Ibrahim Rababa’a, Mohammad Anaqrah, and Majd Bdour, all students under the supervision of Dr. Shadi Al-Laboun from the Hijjawi Faculty for Engineering Technology.
Prof. Awad Al-Zaben, Dean of the Hijjawi Faculty for Engineering Technology, was proud of this achievement, emphasizing the excellence of Yarmouk University students in meeting the challenges and competing within technical and innovative fields. He said this victory is a continuation of the policy adopted by Yarmouk University in supporting student creativity and encouraging students to attain the highest ranks in engineering and technological disciplines.
He also praised the role of academic supervision and the high quality the team demonstrated in all stages of the competition. He expressed his thanks to the Career Rehabilitation Center of the Hisham Hijjawi Scientific Foundation for its continued support of the students and its role in enabling them to participate in activities and competitions that add to raising their practical capabilities and increasing their readiness for the labor market.
The preparation of scientific competencies in various fields of knowledge, and the production of innovative scientific research aims to serve society by providing exemplary education in an intellectually stimulating university environment.