Vice President for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at King Abdulaziz University,
Prof. Amin Youssef Noaman, inaugurated the first cohort of the “Research and Innovation
Leadership Fellowship” on Monday, February 2, 2026.
The program, launched by the Center for University Education Development, targets deans,
vice deans, department chairs, and leaders of institutes, units, societies, and research and
innovation sectors within the university. The fellowship comprises 60 hours of training over
one academic semester, followed by another semester focused on practical application.
Prof. Noaman explained that the initiative reflects the university’s commitment to preparing
academic leaders equipped to drive transformational change in the research and innovation
ecosystem. It aims to enhance institutional efficiency, ensure sustainability, and support
national strategic goals by fostering a deep understanding of the integrated research and
innovation landscape in alignment with national priorities and international standards.
Prof. Hani Brdesee, Director of the Center for University Education Development, stated that
the program is designed to prepare leaders to advance research and innovation
development across universities by understanding collaborative dynamics among research
sectors and strengthening external partnerships. He also highlighted the program’s
structure, which focuses on 20 core competencies in leadership, research, innovation, and
education.
