On November 4, 2024, the Higher Education Council convened in Aden, Yemen’s temporary capital, to approve a series of resolutions aimed at improving academic and educational performance in both public and private universities, addressing existing challenges and issues.

The meeting, chaired by the internationally recognized Yemeni Prime Minister Ahmed bin Mubarak, focused on the conditions of faculty members and teaching assistants in universities, as reported by the Yemeni news agency Saba.

Among the key decisions made, the council prioritized the swift implementation of legal adjustments and promotions for faculty members. A committee was established, led by the Prime Minister and including the Ministers of Higher Education, Research, and Finance, to address demands raised by the academic staff and university administration.

The council also adopted a proposal from the Prime Minister regarding the issuance and accreditation of Yemeni scholarly journals, ensuring the quality of scientific research. Additionally, it approved recommendations from the technical committee tasked with reviewing all programs, colleges, and centers proposed by universities for accreditation.

Furthermore, the council endorsed the regulatory framework for blended learning at Aden University, which aims to enhance the educational process by integrating traditional and online learning formats.

Discussions included the postgraduate study system in Yemeni higher education institutions, with directives to incorporate submitted feedback and present it again at the next council meeting.

The council transferred a proposal for an English and Arabic language proficiency program for postgraduate students to the Academic Accreditation Council, aiming to standardize competency criteria across different universities.

Additionally, the Higher Education Council tasked the Academic Accreditation Council with reviewing a restructuring plan for Shabwa University, licensing the establishment of a graduate studies center at Al Hudaydah University, and opening an Executive Master's program in Infection Control, with recommendations to be submitted to the council.

Prime Minister bin Mubarak welcomed the heads of public universities and council members, emphasizing the importance of regular council meetings to address ongoing challenges in higher education. He highlighted the role of universities in providing scientific solutions and improving governance and transparency, stressing the need to strengthen partnerships with the private sector and focus on specialized fields that meet labor market demands.