Dr. Mohamed Sharaf, a leading expert in innovation and AI, has been appointed to this new role, positioning An-Najah as a global pioneer in the field. With a strong academic and research background, he has led initiatives to integrate AI into education, research, and industry solutions. Additionally, Dr. Sharaf previously led An-Najah Innovation Park, a key platform for technological entrepreneurship and academia-industry collaboration. The Park’s specialized academies have upskilled graduates in AI and business innovation, helping hundreds secure employment and further strengthening the University’s role in shaping the future of AI.

The University has also appointed Dr. Ahmed Awad as the dean of the newly established Faculty of Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence. The faculty aims to advance research and education in innovation, AI, and big data analytics, preparing students and researchers to address complex challenges and boost productivity in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, business, and fintech. It will foster a research-driven environment and build strategic partnerships with academic and industry leaders. Dr. Awad, an expert in IT and AI with a PhD from the Tokyo Institute of Technology, has made significant contributions to network optimization and IoT.

This appointment highlights An-Najah University’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies and creating an environment that nurtures creativity and technological entrepreneurship. It solidifies the University’s position as a leader in digital transformation and AI in the region. This move marks a significant step in the University’s journey to enhance its innovative capabilities and ensure its status as an outstanding educational institution, preparing graduates to compete both locally and globally.