Saudi Arabia and Australia deepen cooperation in education and research

By Henry September 19, 2025
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Saudi Arabia and Australia are forging closer ties in higher education, scientific research, and skills development following a series of high-level meetings between the two countries’ education leaders.

Saudi Arabia’s minister of education, Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan, met with his Australian counterpart Jason Clare in Canberra, where discussions centred on expanding academic collaboration, innovation, and student mobility. Joint university initiatives, including twinning programmes, faculty exchanges, and research partnerships, were at the forefront of the talks.

Both countries highlighted opportunities for collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, and health sciences, reflecting shared priorities in advancing research and technology. Al-Benyan also underscored investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s evolving education sector under Vision 2030, signalling interest in attracting Australian universities and research centres to establish a local presence.

Australia’s expertise in technical and vocational training was another focal point, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s drive to strengthen human capital and prepare its young population for future labour market needs. The ministers also discussed supporting Saudi students studying in Australia, ensuring strong academic pathways and a welcoming environment.

In addition to government-level talks, Al-Benyan met with education expert Professor Phil Lambert to explore curriculum development collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s National Curriculum Centre. The meeting reviewed best practices in student assessment, teacher training, and digital education methods to foster creativity, innovation, and critical thinking.

Al-Benyan also addressed the Saudi-Australian Business Council in Sydney, where he emphasised Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing education through scholarships, exchange programmes, and infrastructure development. The discussions included promoting joint research in health, energy, and artificial intelligence, while highlighting initiatives for persons with disabilities and incentives for international investors.

Sam Jamsheedi, president of the Australian Saudi Business Forum, welcomed the delegation, noting that education is a central pillar of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and praising Australia’s strong existing partnerships across early childhood, technical training, and higher education in the Kingdom.

The meetings mark a significant step in strengthening long-term collaboration, with both Saudi Arabia and Australia reaffirming their commitment to education as a driver of innovation and global competitiveness.

Source: THE PIE NEWS

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