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.
