“In Conversation with CLICKS Series”
Building Entrepreneurial Mindsets: The Role of Universities in Fostering Innovation
Universities as Engines of Innovation: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions
As part of the “In-Conversation with CLICKS” series, this virtual panel discussion, co-hosted by the Center for Learning Innovations and Customized Knowledge Solutions (CLICKS) and TUM International GmbH (TUMint), a subsidiary of the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in Germany, will explore the evolving role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship that benefits society, while developing leadership for entrepreneurially-minded universities.
In an era marked by technological disruption, complex societal challenges, and shifting employment landscapes, universities worldwide are rethinking their traditional roles. The focus is expanding beyond knowledge dissemination to becoming active hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship. Higher education institutions (HEIs) are called upon not just to educate, but to innovate — fostering environments where creativity, entrepreneurial thinking, and impact-driven research thrive.
Elevating innovation and entrepreneurship within higher education has become a global imperative, as universities are increasingly expected to play a transformative role in driving economic growth, social progress, and sustainable development. By cultivating creative thinking, resilience, and ecosystem collaboration, HEIs can empower learners and researchers to address complex challenges, contribute to future employment landscapes, and actively support broader global development priorities.
Building on CLICKS’ commitment to advancing thought leadership and fostering regional and international collaboration, and leveraging the global expertise of TUMint in enabling entrepreneurship and innovation in and around universities globally, this panel brings together leaders from academia, industry, and policy to unpack the critical components of successful university-led entrepreneurial ecosystems. The session will share global insights and practical approaches to building cultures of innovation and entrepreneurship within higher education.
Founder & CEO
CLICKS, UAE
President
Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology (E-JUST), Egypt
Senior Advisor
MENA Competitiveness Programme Middle East and Africa Division
Global Relations and Co-operation, France
Former Global Head
Siemens RIE | Academia-Business Advisor | Angel Investor | Female Tech Mentor, Germany
Who should attend?
Registration
The Arab Consortium for Teaching and Learning Centers was initiated by CLICKS in December 2023 to act as a collaborative network committed to enhancing teaching and learning standards across the Arab region. This non-profit initiative brought together eight distinguished universities spanning six Arab countries including: UAE University, The American University of Beirut, the American University of Sharjah, Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane (Morocco), The American University of Cairo, the American University of Bahrain, Abu Dhabi University, Ajman University, and Prince Sultan University, with the latter serving as the inaugural host. In addition to Naseej as the principal technology partner.
The Consortium’s primary goal is to establish a vibrant network of Centers of Excellence in Teaching and Learning, serving as a conduit for knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and the dissemination of best practices. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
