Dubai, UAE | March 19th , 2025
The Center for Learning Innovation and Customized Knowledge Solutions (CLICKS) has officially announced the shortlisted nominees for the 4th Cycle of the Zairi International Awards for Excellence in Higher Education (2024-2025).
Established in 2021 in honor of the late Professor Mohamed Zairi, a global pioneer in quality management, the Zairi International Awards recognize higher education institutions (HEIs) that are making a transformative impact in education and society.
The awards, endorsed by various regional and international organizations and university associations, celebrate institutions that proactively address global educational challenges, drive positive change, and contribute to the long-term development of their communities and nations.
The shortlisted institutions were selected through an independent assessment process, ensuring fairness and transparency. CLICKS plays no role in the selection of nominees or winners, as all applications undergo rigorous evaluation by an International Assessment Committee comprised of global experts.
This year, the committee carefully reviewed 97 applications from 34 countries, identifying institutions that have demonstrated clear, measurable, and sustainable impact in areas such as digital transformation, research influence, community engagement, internationalization, equity and inclusion, and disruptive education. Each nominee was assessed against predefined criteria, with a strong emphasis on verifiable evidence showcasing the real-world impact of their initiatives.
Shortlisted Nominees by Category (in no particular order):
Award of Excellence for Digital Transformation
- United States International University – Africa, Republic of Kenya
- Abu Dhabi University, United Arab Emirates
- Dubai Police Academy, United Arab Emirates
Award of Excellence for Research Impact
- Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Prince Sultan University (PSU), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Jouf University (JU), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Award of Excellence for Disruptive Education
- London School of Innovation, United Kingdom
- National Maritime Academy, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Amity University Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Award of Excellence for Outstanding Non-Profit Contribution to the Community
- Beirut Arab University (BAU), Republic of Lebanon
- American International University, State of Kuwait
- African Rural University, Republic of Uganda
Awards of Excellence for Equity and Inclusion
- University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE), United Arab Emirates
- The American University of Kurdistan, Kurdistan, Iraq
- Euromed University of Fes, kingdom of Morroco
Award of Excellence for Internationalization
- Ajman University, United Arab Emirates
Next Steps: Final Evaluation and Award Ceremony
Following this announcement, an independent jury will now conduct the final round of evaluation to determine the winners in each category. The final results will be revealed during the official award ceremony, scheduled for September 2025.
Upcoming Cycle for 2025-2026
CLICKS also confirmed that the 5th Cycle of the Zairi International Awards will open for applications from June 30, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
The Zairi International Awards serve as a global benchmark for impactful contributions in higher education, recognizing institutions that push the boundaries of innovation while making tangible, lasting differences in their communities.
