July 2025
AARINENA participated in the 9th Annual Academic Conference of the Jordanians North American Alumni Organization (JANA), held this year under the theme: “Smart Agriculture and Water Technologies – Smart Solutions for the Future of Agriculture and Water in Jordan.” The event took place at Ajloun National University, in northern Jordan.
AARINENA was represented by Dr. Rida Shibli, Executive Secretary of the Association, who took part in the first panel discussion alongside a number of distinguished experts. The session focused on future challenges facing agriculture amid scarce resources and the role of innovation in overcoming them.
The conference featured two expert panel discussions, which addressed key issues related to sustainable agriculture and water management, while highlighting successful experiences and innovative ideas that could help shape national policy and strategic planning.
In his keynote address, Dr. Mohammad Al-Masri, President of JANA, emphasized that hosting the conference at Ajloun National University represents a significant step forward in strengthening partnerships between academic institutions in Jordan and expert organizations abroad. He noted that JANA’s annual conferences aim to connect global knowledge with national needs, particularly in vital sectors such as agriculture and water. He added that the choice of this year’s theme reflects a direct response to the pressing challenges Jordan faces, and praised the university’s commitment to fostering high-level dialogue and supporting initiatives that contribute to a better future for the country’s natural resources.
Also speaking at the opening, Professor Dr. Feras Al-Hanandeh, President of Ajloun National University, affirmed that the university’s role extends beyond education, as it strives to be a hub for knowledge, science, and innovation. He pointed out that the university had previously launched the initiative “Jordan’s Oxygen,” and is now adding a new dimension to this effort by embracing what he described as “technological oxygen” — through the adoption of smart solutions that enhance the sustainability of Jordan’s agricultural and water resources.
AARINENA’s participation in this important event reflects its ongoing efforts to promote scientific and technical dialogue on the future of agriculture in the Arab region, and to reaffirm its role as a regional platform that connects research institutions, academics, and policymakers.