Amman, July 12 (Petra) -- The Lower House Education Committee continued discussions on Sunday regarding the draft amendment to the Jordanian Universities Law, in a meeting attended by the Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Scientific Research, Azmi Mahafzah.

Committee Chairman Ibrahim Al Qaralleh said the panel attaches great importance to the draft law due to its pivotal role in advancing the higher education sector and boosting the standing of Jordanian universities. He emphasized that the committee will review the amendments transparently to align the sector with local and international educational advancements.

Al Qaralleh added that the committee is keen to hear diverse viewpoints to ensure balanced legislation that strengthens university autonomy, improves administrative efficiency, and upgrades the academic and research environment to enhance overall education quality.

Mahafzah outlined the main features of the draft law and the rationale behind its drafting. He explained that the proposed amendments aim to modernize the higher education ecosystem, improve institutional governance, and elevate academic and administrative performance. The minister noted that these changes align with the country's Economic Modernization Vision to boost the competitiveness of Jordanian universities regionally and globally.

The meeting saw extensive discussions on several articles of the bill. Lawmakers raised inquiries regarding the impact of the amendments on both public and private universities, the mechanisms for developing campus environments, and strategies to advance scientific research.

Members of Parliament, including Nimer Al-Sulihat, Ibrahim Al-Hmaidi, Mohammad Al-Roud, Othman Al-Makhadmeh, Huda Al-Etoom, Ferial Bani Salman, Tamara Naseraldeen, Rania Khleifat, and Ayat Bani Issa, emphasized the need for modern legislation. They noted that strengthening governance and administration will safeguard the quality of education and serve students, faculty, and administrative staff alike.

//Petra// AF