Yarmouk University hosted the closing conference of the project "Remote and Virtual Laboratories for Teaching and Training Engineering Students in Higher Education Institutions in the Southern Mediterranean and Sub-Saharan Africa," funded by the European Union under Erasmus+. The conference was under the patronage of the EU Ambassador to Jordan, Mr. Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas, and YU Vice President Dr. Ruba Al-Bataineh.
In his speech, Ambassador Chatzisavas expressed his appreciation to Yarmouk University for its initiative and referred to it as an example of excellence and leadership in modern education. He also appreciated all the project partners for their cooperation in the success of this important project, which constitutes a milestone in the path of international scholarly cooperation and the development of engineering education within the region.
He emphasized that this project is representative of the EU vision of funding tertiary education based on innovation and digitalization, helping young people and students acquire modern technical skills. He also added that such projects promote sustainable development and enrich scientific and cultural cooperation between nations.
Chatzisavas mentioned that Yarmouk University, being one of the oldest and most renowned universities in Jordan, successfully carried out this project with the assistance of 15 higher learning institutions in Morocco, Lebanon, Germany, Spain, and Tanzania. He was impressed by the level of cooperation between the partners and noted that this project is part of the most important initiatives funded by the European Union under Erasmus+, both intellectually and economically.
He also told us that the number of students and academic staff who participate in the exchange programs between Jordan and Europe per year ranges from 600 to 800 participants, pointing out that Jordan is one of the largest recipients of the program in the region.
In turn, Dr. Al-Bataineh described that the project is a motivating experience which had brought together partners from Europe, the Mediterranean, and Sub-Saharan Africa in a shared vision with a purpose of making the education in engineering more flexible, inclusive, and up-to-date through virtual labs and innovative technologies.
She attested that Yarmouk University, being the host institution of the project, boasts its top-notch achievements — setting up contemporary distant laboratories, designing home experiments, training academic staff, and improving students' learning experience — all of which prove the constructive role of cooperation and technology in promoting higher education.
Dr. Al-Bataineh emphasized preserving and exchanging these innovations among different educational institutions, thanking the European Union, all the partners, and all those who contributed to the success of the project. She also wished the participants an efficient and inspiring conference.
Dr. Mowafaq Al-Otoom, Yarmouk University project manager for the Hijjawi Faculty for Engineering Technology, reported the key achievements of the project from January 2023 to December 2025.
He referenced the fact that the project involved 15 partner institutions based in Jordan, Morocco, Lebanon, Tanzania, Spain, and Germany. Some of its key achievements included the implementation of five remote and seven home-based laboratories, benefiting more than 8,000 students and 400 administrative and teaching staff members through more than 100 engineering courses.
The project also involved the development of e-learning and training materials and the organization of more than 100 training workshops among staff and students, which led to enhanced academic performance and greater practical and digital skills. He expresses gratitude to the European Union, the Erasmus+ initiative, and all the partners for their unshakeable support towards the success of the project.
The two-day conference schedule covered technical and scientific sessions on universities' experience in establishing remote and home-based laboratories, challenges encountered, and key lessons learned. There were also presentations of students' and faculty members' experience.
There was also a broad panel discussion under the topic "Sustainability and the Future of Remote and Home-Based Laboratories in Engineering Education" with the presence of representatives from partner universities, industry, and the European Union.
Under the patronage of Yarmouk University President, Professor Malek Al-Sharairi, the university inaugurated the activities of the "13th Scientific Day of Biomedical Engineering," organized by Al-Hijjawi Faculty of Engineering Technology in cooperation with the Jordan Engineers Association (JEA).
In his opening speech, Al-Sharairi stated that this Scientific Day is the outcome of joint cooperation between Yarmouk University, represented by Al-Hijjawi Faculty of Engineering Technology, and the Jordan Engineers Association, represented by its Electrical Engineering Division. This cooperation aims to realize the shared vision of supporting all efforts that advance scientific research and build knowledge across all vital sectors.
He added that this Scientific Day provides an opportunity to exchange insights, pose questions, and enhance scientific communication among experts, stakeholders, and students. Furthermore, it serves to keep pace with scientific development and open new horizons for scientific research and innovation.
Prof. Al-Sharairi urged Al-Hijjawi students to make the most of the day's activities, which will enhance their capabilities and develop their skills in their field specialization, thereby strengthening their competitiveness in local, regional, and international labor markets. He also clarified that nowadays, biomedical engineering is no longer a luxury or a field of limited impact; rather, it is a science advancing rapidly toward changing the meaning of healthcare.
He continued: "Engineering capabilities are now directed toward increasing the effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment, and inventing diagnostic and therapeutic solutions that make a difference in patients' lives, in addition to incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems into many of these tools."
For his part, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Awad Al-Zaben, delivered a speech in which he affirmed that this Scientific Day has become a public call to realize that learning does not stop at courses studied or experiments conducted in laboratories. Instead, learning thrives when tools are innovated, potentials are unleashed, and horizons for innovation are broadened.
He pointed out that biomedical engineering is no longer about tools being manufactured or machines being assembled; rather, it is about life being granted, hope being revived, and wellness being formulated by the engineer's mind and the doctor's hand.
Describing it as a precise science that merges the understanding the structure of the human body and its complexities with the capabilities of modern technologies to create devices that aid medicine in diagnosis and treatment.
In turn, the representative of the Jordan Engineers Association and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Jadara University, Dr. Issam Trrad, stressed the importance of the Scientific Day, given the lectures and scientific papers it includes, which keep pace with the requirements of the modern era. He noted that one of the most important features of the event is that it is held at Yarmouk University, the scientific edifice that has played and will continue to play a role in embracing scholars. He clarified that the JEA has a strategy of partnership with Yarmouk University and other universities to bridge the gap between educational outputs and the requirements of the local, Arab, and international labor markets.
The Scientific Day included four academic sessions with the participation of several faculty members and experts in the field of biomedical engineering. The first session was titled "The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Medical Imaging System," the second "Latest Technological Developments in Biomedical Engineering," the third "The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare," and the fourth "Clinical Engineering."
Professor Dr. Malek Alsharairi, President of the University, addressed the Yarmouk University community following the issuance of the Royal Decree appointing him as President.
In his message, Alsharairi emphasized that with the issuance of this Royal Decree entrusting him with the presidency of the university, he finds himself facing significant responsibilities and great opportunities as the university approaches its golden jubilee. Since its establishment, Yarmouk University has stood as a national stronghold of knowledge and scholarship, a beacon of culture and the arts, and a nurturing ground for leaders and distinguished professionals who have contributed to the progress of Jordan as well as that of brotherly and friendly nations.
He added that he returns today to Yarmouk University in the foremost position of responsibility, after spending more than nine years within its halls—both as a student and as a member of its faculty. He stressed his commitment to working alongside the university community to carry forward the ever-burning torch of Yarmouk, continuing the path of progress paved by predecessors over the past forty-nine years. He affirmed that this endeavor is guided by trust in God, the honor of the Royal confidence, the shared determination of the university family, and fortified by experience, passion, and vision.
The following is the text of the message in English
In the Name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate
Dear colleagues, academic and administrative staff,
My beloved students,
The huge Yarmouk family of loyal alumni across Jordan and around the world,
Peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you,
With the issuance of the Royal Decree appointing me as President of Yarmouk University, I find myself entrusted with great responsibilities and important opportunities, as we approach the Golden Jubilee of our distinguished university. Since its founding, Yarmouk has stood as one of the national fortresses of knowledge, a beacon of culture and arts, and a cradle of leaders and talents who have contributed to Jordan’s progress and to that of many friendly nations.
I take pride in having spent more than nine years within its campus — first as a student, then as a member of its faculty — drawing from its rich knowledge, learning from its distinguished professors, and having the honor of teaching its students. Today, I return to it in the highest position of responsibility, eager to work alongside you, carrying together the torch of Yarmouk, which has never been extinguished, continuing the journey of those who came before us through the past 49 years. I do so with reliance on God, honored by the Royal trust, strengthened by your sincere determination, and armed with experience, passion, and vision.
Esteemed colleagues — academic, administrative, and support staff,
You are the team. I am immensely proud of you all: my teachers, whom I deeply respect and take as role models; my classmates and colleagues, who accompanied me on my journey of learning and work; and my students, whom I had the privilege to teach and who were among the very best, and fellow academics who are globally distinguished and administrative staff who are highly competent. Today, I return to be among you and with you — a leader of one team. I will succeed at times and falter at others, but I place before me only the higher interest of the University. I pledge “by Yarmouk” to stand at an equal distance from all, supporting you in service to our University, with no bias except toward merit, ability, achievement, and dedication. Each and every one of us is accountable. Each of us carries the duty not only to perform our role faithfully but to strive for excellence.
Together, we uphold the mission of education, knowledge creation, and community service. Let us never forget — our students must remain our highest priority. We must dedicate ourselves to broadening their horizons, enhancing their skills, empowering them, and inspiring them to unleash their full potential. Let us be their mentors and role models, ensuring that they benefit from us to the fullest. For they are the primary reason for our existence in this institution. We must enrich their educational journey with modern teaching methods, innovative assessment, and impactful research, while integrating advanced technologies, applied learning, and entrepreneurship. We must maximize their experiences, open for them opportunities in employment and innovation, and prepare them for the future. Tomorrow, the world will see us through them; let us see our future through them today.
We are all committed to the vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein, as expressed in the Seventh Discussion Paper, which emphasized:
“It is no longer acceptable to allow hesitation and fear of development and modernization in science to waste the immense human potential we possess. Educational institutions must believe in the vast energy, great capacities, and diverse talents of our youth, and strive to discover, nurture, refine, and stimulate them to their fullest, through the most modern educational methods that encourage understanding and critical thinking, and integrate science with practice, theory with application.”
My beloved students,
Each morning I will look into your eyes to draw strength, determination, and motivation. As you begin this new academic year, I remind you of the words of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, who has always placed youth at the very top of priorities:
“History has recorded Jordan’s leadership and the creativity of its sons and daughters. The future will bear witness to this nation’s youth building towers of knowledge and progress, moving us toward a better Jordan, God willing. Jordan’s youth have never been complacent or indifferent; generation after generation, we take nothing for granted — not our security, not our knowledge, not our livelihood. We do not simply take; we give.”
Be earnest and committed, do not fear asking, experimenting, or even failing. Fill your hearts with passion and your minds with curiosity. Have faith in yourselves — your influence will bring positive change, sooner or later. Do not tire of thinking, innovating, or being creative. Keep pace with modern technology. Place no limits on your vision of the future. Persevere with patience and determination in your pursuit of leadership. Be sincere in your love for your country and community, beginning with honoring your parents — your first school. Speak with positivity and courage, let it be calmness accompanied by the resounding noise of achievement and sincere striving. Always remember that Yarmouk has been, and will remain, your platform and home — the place that opens doors of hope, opportunity, and success, nurturing talent and ambition.
Our loyal alumni,
As Yarmouk approaches its Golden Jubilee, you now number nearly a quarter of a million worldwide — leading businesses and institutions, achieving success, supporting nations, contributing to economies, and enriching societies. You are united by your love for Yarmouk, carrying its name, cherishing its memories, and taking pride in it in every forum. I urge you to amplify your impact by lighting the way for others, supporting and developing talent, and keeping your bonds strong with one another and with your university. For every success Yarmouk achieves, you share in it — whether you realize it or not.
Dears within and beyond the University,
Together we face immense opportunities to lead Yarmouk University to greater heights — to make it a hub that attracts and nurtures talent, positivity, and distinction; a destination for students and partners from all over; an institution open to the world, building bridges of diversity, partnership, and knowledge exchange; a flexible university rooted in the future of education, research, and innovation; financially stable; and a trusted partner locally, nationally, and regionally in economic development.
I invite you all to race against time in the spirit of teamwork, as partners in success and achievement, to write a new chapter in Yarmouk’s journey. Let us leave our mark, pave the way for future generations, and build a brighter, stronger, and more pioneering university. I promise you that I will remain among you and with you — a colleague and brother before being a President — working with dedication so that Yarmouk will always lead from the front.
May God grant us all success in serving our beloved Jordan and our cherished university. With God’s blessing, I hereby begin — under the leadership of the patron of knowledge and progress, His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein, and the role model of ambitious and dedicated youth, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II.
Under the patronage of Yarmouk University’s Vice President, Dr. Amjad Dheifallah Al-Naser, the Faculty of Science organized an event to celebrate World Statistics Day, attended by the Dean of the Faculty, Dr. Moheeb Awwadyeh, and the Head of the Department of Statistics, Dr. Ayman Baklizi.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Al-Naser explained the difference between statistics and mathematics, noting that while mathematics is the umbrella of all sciences, statistics serves as the umbrella of scientific research and studies.
He added that statistics plays a key role in various fields such as physics, social and human sciences, as well as politics and business, pointing out that it supports researchers across scientific disciplines and decision-makers in diverse practical fields. He emphasized that nearly no area of scientific research is without a statistical dimension contributing effectively to its progress.
Dr. Al-Naser also highlighted this year’s celebration theme, “High-quality statistics and data for all,” which aims to stress the importance of data in driving change, supporting sound decision-making for sustainable development, and raising awareness about the value of accurate and reliable data in shaping public policies.
For his part, Dr. Awwadyeh noted that celebrating this day represents a global occasion to shed light on the central role of statistical sciences in modern life. He emphasized that statistics are not merely numbers and tables, but rather the language of data that helps us understand the world around us, make informed decisions, and design enlightened future plans.
Dr. Awwadyeh expressed the faculty’s pride in the Department of Statistics and its research and academic contributions, as well as its role in providing the labor market and various institutions with qualified professionals capable of addressing data-driven challenges. He stressed that statistics are an indispensable tool for achieving sustainable development and building the knowledge society that the world aspires to.
Meanwhile, Dr. Baklizi explained that the celebration of the third World Statistics Day, held globally on October 20 every five years, comes in response to a United Nations General Assembly resolution recognizing the importance of reliable statistics and indicators in decision-making and monitoring progress in countries, particularly regarding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He added that the Faculty of Science takes pride in hosting this vital discipline, underscoring the need to continue developing it, enhancing scientific research, and graduating competent professionals capable of serving society and keeping pace with global developments.
On the sidelines of the celebration, several faculty members and students were honored for their efforts and various achievements.
The Department of International Student Affairs at the Deanship of Student Affairs concluded the activities of the orientation program for new Malaysian students for the academic year 2025–2026.
The program aims to welcome the students and introduce them to the university environment, activities, programs, and services offered by the Deanship of Student Affairs, as part of the university’s vision to support international students and help them integrate into the university community.
The ceremony included several interactive activities and cultural and artistic competitions that created an atmosphere of friendliness and fun. It also featured introductory presentations and welcoming speeches that gave an overview of the university, its academic mission, and its role in supporting international students and providing them with the necessary academic and social assistance.
Dr. Shadi Al-Bashir, Head of the International Student Care Department at the Deanship of Student Affairs, emphasized the department’s commitment to providing everything that helps create a supportive and inclusive university environment for international students. He pointed out that this meeting is part of a series of programs and activities organized by the department for new international students from various countries, aiming to enhance their interaction and participation in university life in all its academic, cultural, and social aspects.
At the end of the ceremony, the Malaysian students expressed their thanks and appreciation to the university and the Deanship of Student Affairs for the warm welcome. They affirmed their happiness in starting their university journey in a distinguished environment that encourages learning, openness, and cultural diversity.
As part of the “Ethics and Volunteer Work” course, the Deanship of Student Affairs organized an awareness lecture titled “Cybercrimes,” delivered by Ali Al-Salibi from the Justice Center for Legal Aid.
Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Ahmad Abu Dalou, stated that holding such lectures reflects the Deanship’s and the University’s commitment to raising students’ awareness of important societal issues. He explained that the Deanship seeks to use the “Ethics and Volunteer Work” course to enrich students’ legal knowledge and educate them on the importance of protecting themselves from legal accountability, particularly in matters such as cybercrimes, given the limitless spread of technology and the widespread use of social media.
For his part, Al-Salibi addressed the concept and nature of cybercrimes, as well as the laws and regulations governing them, calling on students to commit to the positive and responsible use of the internet and social media, while avoiding harm to others.
He warned against using social media platforms as tools for blackmail or threats, or for exploiting others’ personal information, as well as spreading rumors and misleading news. He urged students to remain cautious and not fall victim to such practices.
Both students, Israa Al-Akour and Zainab Mustafa, from the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, participated in the “Middle East Oil, Gas, and Geosciences Conference and Exhibition (MEOS GEO 2025)” hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain.
The students, Al-Akour and Mustafa, expressed their delight in representing Yarmouk University and the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences as part of the “Youth, Professionals, and Students” program held alongside the conference, where they participated in technical workshops and lectures addressing energy challenges and sustainable solutions.
The two students also presented innovative proposals for recycling waste and converting it into energy sources, in addition to participating in the “Poster Showcase,” which brought together students and professionals from various countries.
The two students also participated in field visits to the ASRY offshore drilling facility to gain firsthand knowledge of drilling operations and marine infrastructure, in addition to visiting the Bahrain National Museum to learn about the cultural and historical heritage of the Kingdom of Bahrain.
At the conclusion of their participation, the two students implemented an innovative project presented in a “Shark Tank” style before a specialized committee. In this project, Al-Akour and her team achieved a remarkable accomplishment by winning the MEOS GEO 2025 challenge with an innovative presentation on reducing gas usage in hydrogen production as a sustainable solution to enhance energy security, earning her the award for Best Presentation at the conference. This achievement reflects the excellence of the department’s students and their ability to compete in regional and international scientific forums.
The two students praised the academic support they received from the faculty members in the department, particularly Dr. Abdullah Al-Rawabdeh and Dr. Mohammed Al-Qudah, and expressed their deep gratitude for the trust placed in them by the department and the university to represent them at this international forum.
Dean of the Faculty, Dr. Muheeb Awawdeh, highlighted the importance of students taking part in international scientific events as part of the faculty’s efforts to support academic and research excellence. He noted that attending such conferences helps students gain more scientific and professional experience, keeps them updated on the latest technological developments in Earth and Energy Sciences, and gives them opportunities to connect with researchers and experts from around the world.
Under the patronage of Yarmouk University President, Prof. Malek Al-Sharairi, the university held a welcoming ceremony for new students for the academic year 2025/2026, organized by the Deanship of Student Affairs in cooperation with the Student Union, at Al-Kindi Auditorium.
Prof. Al-Sharairi welcomed the new students, congratulating them on joining Yarmouk University’s academic family. He affirmed Yarmouk’s belief that education is a comprehensive system and a fundamental pillar of national progress. The mission of the university, he emphasized, is not merely to provide students with information, but to build a balanced individual — intellectually, morally, and humanly — who realizes that knowledge is not an end in itself, but a means to achieve goodness, development, and advancement.
He stressed the university’s commitment to providing a healthy, stimulating, and supportive environment that enables students to discover and develop their potential, empowering them to become future leaders who believe in themselves, their humanity, and their abilities. He urged students to be honest with themselves and with their society, and to be productive, innovative, and sincere in all that they do.
Prof. Al-Sharairi emphasized that students have the ability to be leaders and active contributors to the present and the future by equipping themselves with the tools of strength and success and through positive engagement in their communities. He pointed out that joining the university marks a continuation of one’s journey as a productive and giving member of society, whether the student is Jordanian or an international student. He added that international students are a valuable addition to the Yarmouk community and true ambassadors of Jordan and Yarmouk University in their home countries after graduation.
He also highlighted Yarmouk’s ongoing efforts to attract students from various countries, which enhances cultural diversity on campus. This diversity, he noted, reflects the university’s status as a hub for ideas that foster creativity and innovation.
“The Deanship of Student Affairs,” Prof. Al-Sharairi continued, “is the students’ trusted reference and their partner in shaping their university experience. Through its various activities, it nurtures students’ sense of initiative, responsibility, and belonging, while offering them guidance, support, and care whenever needed.”
Addressing the students, he said: “Your university journey is not merely about earning academic credits or obtaining a degree — it is a life experience through which your personality is shaped, and your ambitions grow. You must strive to acquire knowledge, apply it practically, and develop essential skills along the way.”
Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Ahmad Al-Shuraifin, said that joining Yarmouk University — the house of knowledge, innovation, and enlightenment — marks a defining step in students’ lives, as they move from the stage of receiving information to the stage of self-building, and from seeking knowledge to shaping thought and identity.
He stressed that knowledge at the university is not measured by the number of credit hours or exams, but by students’ ability to think critically, respect different opinions, and develop independent, conscious personalities who know what they want and where they are headed.
Dr. Al-Shuraifin added that the Deanship of Student Affairs exists for the students — it is their warm home, safe haven, and reliable reference that listens to their concerns and celebrates their aspirations.
He also expressed the university’s pride in hosting students from various friendly and brotherly countries, united by Yarmouk’s spirit of diversity, understanding, and coexistence, which turns the campus into a vibrant mosaic of tolerance and mutual respect.
For his part, the President of the Student Union, Odei Al-Dhiabat, affirmed that the university has never been merely an academic institution, but rather a message of thought, a field of excellence, and a school of belonging, patience, and awareness. Yarmouk, he said, has embraced generations and witnessed stories of ambition that began within its halls and went on to make a difference in a nation we all take pride in.
He stressed that the Student Union represents the students’ free voice, their open space for dialogue, and their constant support throughout their academic journey. He affirmed that the Union will remain close to the students — honest in action, and loyal to the university, the homeland, and the Hashemite leadership.
The ceremony, attended by the university’s Vice Presidents Dr. Ruba Al-Batayneh and Dr. Amjad Al-Naser, along with several deans and officials, featured artistic performances by the university choir and the Deanship of Student Affairs’ art troupe.
Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs, Dr. Yousef Obeidat, presided over the closing ceremony honoring the winners of the “Holy Quran Memorization Competition” and the “University Hafiz Competition” for the academic year 2024/2025, “Organized by the Faculty of Sharia and Islamic Studies” in collaboration with the Deanship of Student Affairs, Dr. Mohammad Talafhah, Dean of the Faculty, said that Yarmouk University’s care for the Quran and its people is part of caring for the nation and investing in the future of its sons and coming generations. He explained that this nation was shaped by the Quran, which set its path, refined its character, and gave it distinction among other nations.
He emphasized that the surahs and verses of the Holy Quran, its wise guidance, its healing influence, and its comprehensive rulings, will remain a witness to the truth for this nation or against it. They will guide it if it goes astray, help it if it stumbles, and show it the path of truth and goodness when the paths become confusing or diverse.
Dr. Talafhah thanked the sponsor and supporter of the competition, the Arab Islamic International Bank. He also appreciated the efforts of the Quran Program Supervisor, Dr. Nadhir Al-Shrairi, the recitation teachers from the Department of Fundamentals of Religion, and the judging committee for making this competition a success.
Based on the competition outcomes, Alia Bakr Al-Shboul, a student from the Department of Fundamentals of Religion, secured first place upon completing the memorization of the entire Holy Quran.
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.