The University welcomed scholars and development experts from across the Arab region for the 5th meeting of the Academic Network for Development Dialogue (ANDD), held from 5 to 7 May 2025. The event served as a powerful platform for exchanging ideas, showcasing regional research, and strengthening the bridge between academia and public policy in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The meeting opened with a dynamic panel discussion on “Enhancing Sustainable Research Systems in Arab Universities,” where leading voices from across the region offered bold, practical insights into the future of academic research and institutional reform. The panel featured Dr. Khalaf Al-Abri from SQU, Prof. Nawal Abdellatif Mami from Sétif 2 University, Dr. Evren Tok from Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Chair of ANDD, Prof. Mohammad Al-Obaidh from King Saud University, Dr. Houda bint Juma Al-Balushi from SQU, and moderated by Prof. Elham Kateeb from Al-Quds University. The discussion explored key challenges in developing sustainable research systems in Arab universities, highlighted best practices and successful models of research capacity building, challenges and solutions related to research funding and examined ways of integrating sustainability principles into university curricula and research priorities.

The conference also included a hands-on training workshop on policy paper writing, led by Dr. Sukaina Al-Nasrawi, UN-ESCWA, and Dr. Evren Tok. With a focus on advocating for change through policy real-world impact, the session equipped participants with tools to translate research into compelling, actionable policy recommendations. Participants explored the art of concise, evidence-based writing and learned how to tailor their messages to decision-makers while maintaining analytical rigor and clarity.

A core feature of this year’s meeting was the presentation and peer review of 12 research papers submitted under the ongoing ANDD Paper Series (2023–2025) 3^rd call, which focuses on promoting human wellbeing and strengthening capabilities to accelerate sustainable development in the Arab region fostering a rich dialogue around emerging findings and lessons learned. Through a highly interactive session moderated by Mr. Mohammad Zuheir Bakleh of UNESCWA, the papers addressed timely and critical themes such as healthcare systems, food and nutrition security, and sustainable resource management, all central to the transformation envisioned by the global development agendas. The meeting ended with an overview of the upcoming activities of ANDD inviting Academia to join the network and foster shared knowledge for positive change.

The gathering in Muscat underscored the power of academic cooperation to inform policy, shape narratives, and drive inclusive, sustainable development across the Arab world. SQU provided not only a prestigious academic venue, but also a spirit of collaboration and shared purpose that energised participants throughout the event.