Amman: The Higher Education Council (HEC) convened under the leadership of Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Dr. Azmi Mahafzeh to address key appointments within Jordan's public universities. The council decided to renew and initiate several leadership positions, impacting the educational landscape significantly.
According to Jordan News Agency, the council has confirmed the reappointment of Dr. Nazir Obeidat as President of the University of Jordan for a new term extending four years, starting August 9, 2025. In a similar move, Dr. Khaled Salem's tenure as President of the Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) has been extended from the same date.
Extending its decisions, the council renewed Dr. Ala'aldeen Halhouli's presidency at the German Jordanian University (GJU) for another four-year period, effective August 23, 2025. However, the council decided to relieve Dr. Bassam Mahasneh from his role as President of Tafila Technical University immediately.
In a notable turn, the council opted not to renew Dr. Islam Massad's presidency at Yarmouk University. This decision opens new opportunities as the council has announced the commencement of nomination processes for the vacant positions at both Yarmouk University and Tafila Technical University. The nomination period is set to run from Sunday, August 10, 2025, through Thursday, August 14, 2025, with applications to be submitted via the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research's online portal.
The eligibility criteria for applicants include Jordanian citizenship, the academic rank of professor, and exclusion from current HEC membership. The selection will adhere to the council's established procedures.