Applied Science University (ASU) of Bahrain has received a prestigious Token of Appreciation from AACSB International, a globally recognized accreditation body for business schools. This acknowledgement celebrates ASU’s significant contribution and steadfast support of the upcoming Elevate Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Conference, scheduled to be held in Tunis, Tunisia, from January 20-21, 2026. This recognition solidifies ASU’s position as a key player in the advancement of business education within the region and globally.
ASU Recognized for Commitment to Excellence in Business Education
The Token of Appreciation was presented to ASU representatives by Eileen McAuliffe, Executive Vice President, Chief Thought Leadership Officer and EMEA at AACSB, and Ihsan Zakri, Vice President, EMEA Growth & Engagement. The presentation highlighted the University’s proactive engagement and dedication to initiatives designed to foster quality, innovation, and impactful learning experiences in the field of business.
This isn’t merely a symbolic gesture; it’s a testament to ASU’s consistent drive towards elevating the standards of higher learning. ASU’s commitment aligns perfectly with AACSB’s mission to push boundaries and improve the quality of undergraduate and postgraduate programs worldwide.
The Importance of the Elevate MENA Conference
The Elevate MENA Conference is a crucial gathering for thought leaders, deans, and faculty within the business school landscape of the Middle East and North Africa. It serves as a platform for discussing critical issues facing higher education, sharing best practices, and forging collaborative partnerships.
Fostering Regional Collaboration
ASU’s support of the conference underlines its belief in the power of regional collaboration. By actively participating and contributing to discussions, the University helps to build a stronger, more interconnected network of business schools across the MENA region. This collaboration is essential for addressing shared challenges and driving innovation.
Focus on Quality Assurance and Accreditation
A central theme of the Elevate MENA Conference is quality assurance and accreditation. ASU’s demonstrated commitment in these areas is significant, as maintaining rigorous standards is vital for ensuring the relevance and value of business programs. The University’s dedication to continuous improvement directly impacts the skills and knowledge of its graduates, preparing them for success in the global marketplace.
ASU’s Leadership in Receiving the Award
The award was graciously accepted by Professor Hatem Masri, President of Applied Science University, and Dr. Ziad Zurigat, Dean of the College of Administrative Sciences. Their presence at the acknowledgment ceremony showcased ASU’s leadership and dedication to the conference’s goals.
Professor Masri and Dr. Zurigat have both been instrumental in fostering a culture of academic rigor and innovation within ASU. Their commitment to providing students with a world-class academic experience has been a driving force behind the University’s achievements. This also includes a willingness to engage with international bodies like AACSB to learn and contribute to the global conversation about business school excellence.
What This Means for ASU and the Future of Business Education
This recognition from AACSB International is particularly meaningful as it underscores ASU’s burgeoning role as a trusted academic partner within the global AACSB community. It provides external validation of the University’s commitment to continuous improvement, a focus on delivering practical and relevant education, and the fostering of strong relationships with industry stakeholders.
Furthermore, the award signals ASU’s dedication to international collaboration. In an increasingly globalized world, the ability to connect with and learn from institutions around the world is paramount. ASU’s continued participation in events like the Elevate MENA Conference will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of business education across the region and beyond.
ASU’s proactive approach in supporting initiatives like Elevate MENA sets a valuable example for other universities in the region. It highlights the importance of not only striving for internal academic excellence but also actively contributing to the wider global community of educators and business professionals. The University’s commitment to quality assurance, accreditation, and the development of future business leaders is commendable.
In conclusion, the Token of Appreciation from AACSB International is a well-deserved honor for Applied Science University. It emphasizes ASU’s vital contribution to the evolution of business education in the MENA region and its commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic quality. We encourage those interested in learning more about ASU and its programs to explore their website and discover the innovative opportunities available. This award reinforces ASU’s dedication to shaping the future of business through collaborative and impactful learning.

