As part of its vision for the future in education, learning, and promoting scientific research, and to prepare qualified and specialized educational competencies to advance the programs of the Faculty of Educational Sciences, the university hosted this morning the activities of the Scientific Day titled "Curricula and National Identity in Light of Digital Challenges." The event, held in Prince Al-Hassan Bin Talal Auditorium, was sponsored on behalf of the University President by the Vice President for Administrative Affairs, Prof. Omar Al-Otaineh, and attended by former Minister of Education Dr. Fayez Al-Saudi, Acting Director of the National Center for Curriculum Development Dr. Omar Abu Ghloion, directors of education in Mafraq, and the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Yousef Maqdadi.
During the opening, Prof. Yousef Maqdadi, Dean of the Faculty of Educational Sciences, stated, "Al al-Bayt University places great importance on identity and citizenship, within a structured and systematic educational framework that accommodates and seeks to achieve all goals. This day emphasizes that curricula must enhance the preservation of the Jordanian national identity and Islamic principles and values while keeping up with modern educational trends aimed at fostering active and responsible citizenship." He noted that the event aligns with the university's strategic plan and the Faculty of Educational Sciences' executive plan, which believes curriculum development policies should empower students with knowledge and skills while making tangible contributions to society. He added that the education system plays a critical role in enhancing national identity through curricula that incorporate historical and cultural concepts and information, inspiring students to understand and appreciate their country's history and heritage.
In his remarks, Dr. Al-Otaineh, representing the University President, praised the significant efforts made by the National Center for Curriculum Development. He highlighted the Center’s role in ensuring curricula keep pace with global educational advancements, driven by its responsibility to collaborate with academic institutions and benefit from national expertise to serve the educational journey.
Prof. Sami Al-Hazaimeh, who moderated the sessions, emphasized that educational curricula are one of the pillars of societal development. He stated that curricula must fulfill this role by instilling a spirit of good citizenship in students, showcasing their national identity, and fostering pride in it. He also stressed the importance of developing students' abilities, skills, and knowledge to enable them to become genuine contributors to their nation and society.
Former Minister of Education Dr. Fayez Al-Saudi pointed out that national values are planted through curricula, which form the foundation of the educational process. He noted that the more flexible a curriculum is, the better it aligns with the knowledge and digital revolution, keeping pace with the race against time. He emphasized that the learner is the central figure in the educational process and that a positively framed curriculum reflects on building a strong national character. He added that organizing the educational process serves learners, ensuring that curricula align with customs and traditions, and that activities significantly contribute to the educational process.
Dr. Omar Abu Ghloion spoke about the role of the National Center for Curriculum Development, explaining its tasks, work, achievements, and future plans in light of digital challenges. He also discussed the general framework of Jordanian curricula and the guidelines that govern the Center's work, such as authorship, values, orientations, and knowledge aimed at equipping students. He highlighted that integrating digital skills and training programs will strengthen the labor market in the future by developing students' skills.
At the end of the Scientific Day, attended by faculty members and students, and inaugurated by Dr. Mamoun Al-Zuboon, a video was presented showcasing the college's journey, programs, and objectives. The event concluded with an extensive discussion in which the speakers addressed questions raised by the attendees.
