The 2nd conference and Forum on Business and Digital Economy (IBDE 2024) kicked off today, Wednesday, at the University of Jordan, under the patronage of Dr. Nathir Obeidat, President of the University of Jordan, and Ahmad Al-Hanandeh, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship. The event was attended by several deans of colleges and specialists from both inside and outside Jordan.
During the opening of the conference, Dr. Obeidat emphasized that the University of Jordan is a key partner in shaping the digital economy. He pointed out that the world of finance and business can no longer continue or compete without the ability to adapt.
He added, saying, "Degrees are no longer enough unless our students master global languages, soft skills, and digital competencies. Teach your students the ethics of work, which are linked to the employee's commitment to completing and perfecting their tasks."
He added, "Starting from next year, the University of Jordan will take bold steps and initiatives by implementing credit hours in both Arabic and English, based on modern language training methods. This will include teaching and training in digital skills and soft human skills through a number of mandatory courses." He emphasized that, "Our students will not graduate after this year unless they pass the 'Job Preparation Course' exam."
He added that the world of information and communication technology is the best tool and means that must be available to those who are searching and working in the field of entrepreneurship, so they can find suitable solutions to face challenges. He emphasized the need to expand the scope of technology, information services, and new communications in order to achieve the set goals and objectives.
For his part, Al-Hanandeh expressed his gratitude to the university and the organizers of the conference, highlighting that it provides a platform for dialogue and showcasing the most important scientific research in the fields of business and digital economy.
Al-Hanandeh pointed out that Jordan has made significant strides in the field of digital economy and entrepreneurship compared to countries in the Middle East and North Africa, especially regarding digital infrastructure. He highlighted that Jordan recognized early on that digital transformation is the key driver of economic and social development and the largest provider of solutions across various sectors, such as agriculture, industry, healthcare, and others.
For his part, Dr. Ra'ed Mosa'dah Bani Yaseen, Dean of School of Business, confirmed that the conference, which includes a selection of researchers, academics, and professionals in the fields of business and digital economy, will discuss a number of key areas over the course of three days. These discussions will focus on exchanging experiences, developing theories, methods, practices, and tools for managing and improving business and the digital economy in general.
At the end of the conference's opening, Dr. Obeidat, alongside Al-Hanandeh, honored the sponsors and several participants in the conference.
It is worth noting that the conference has 299 participants from more than 77 universities worldwide and 13 institutions. A total of 105 research papers will be presented across 34 sessions, covering seven tracks related to the digital economy, including business management, accounting, finance, marketing, information systems, public administration, and business economics.