Riyad—Delegates from Saudi Arabia recently participated in the UK’s Deep Dialogue event on transnational education (TNE), held from 12 to 14 November in Manchester. The event, organised by the British Council, brought together leading stakeholders in higher education from across the globe, facilitating in-depth discussions on the trends, regulations, and challenges shaping TNE.
Saudi Arabia are focused on developing capacity by adopting best educational and administrative practices from foreign universities. The Saudi delegation includes prominent representatives, his Excellency Professor Dr Bassam bin Abdullah Al-Bassam, Secretary General of the Council Of Universities Affairs; His Excellency Dr Tarif Yousef Al Alaama, President of King Abdulaziz University; Prof. Moneer M. Alotaibi, Consultant of the Council of Universities Affairs; Dr. Qamra Faris Al-Omani, Consultant of the Secretary General of The Council Of Universities Affairs; Dr Mamadouh Shouman, International Relations Advisor to the President of King Abdulaziz University.
Deep Dialogues are focused events that foster meaningful international engagement on important higher education themes. The event in November addressed some of the key questions relating to today’s evolving TNE landscape, such as how global higher education trends influence TNE provision and how regulatory frameworks can support effective, equitable TNE partnerships. Delegates also considered the quality standards within TNE partnerships, examining how these standards differ across regions. Another critical area of focus was the development of strong data systems to support sustainable TNE through well-informed policy interventions, providing a foundation for scalable and resilient educational models. Together, these conversations shed light on the complexities of TNE and highlighted opportunities for policy-driven improvements that meet both local and global educational needs.
Susanna Carmody, Regional Education Director – Middle East and North Africa, highlighted the importance of this year’s dialogue:
“The Deep Dialogue has offered an invaluable platform for our delegates from across the region to share their diverse experiences and ideas and learn from their global peers. I hope the connections and insights they have developed here will support them to positively shape the future contribution of TNE within their higher education systems to meet local and global demands.”
The event also featured hands-on experiences at UK universities. Over the three days, participants engaged in sessions focused on regulatory practices, the importance of ensuring a high-quality experience for students in TNE programmes, and the impact of public policy in shaping TNE partnerships and provision.
For more information, please contact: Razan.Kaloti@britishcouncil.org
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About the British Council
The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. We do this through our work in arts and culture, education and the English language. We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2022–23 we reached 600 million people.
What is Transnational Education (TNE)
Transnational Education (TNE) the delivery of higher education awards in a country other than the country in which the awarding institution is based, allowing students worldwide to gain internationally recognised credentials without needing to study abroad. This model addresses global higher education demands, fosters international partnerships, and strengthens educational capacity in host countries. The UK, a leader in TNE, offers a variety of study options, including distance learning, collaborative programmes, and overseas campuses. By enhancing access to higher education, TNE supports sustainable development goals, aligns with national educational priorities, and promotes cross-border collaboration, as outlined in the British Council’s TNE strategy for 2023-25
