The Scientific Council at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University’s Vice-Rectorate for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research concluded yesterday, Thursday, 11 September 2025, the activities of the First Saudi Forum for Scientific Councils held under the theme “Scientific Councils: From Reality to Contemporary Challenges.” The event concluded with the signing of several memoranda of understanding with international entities specializing in academic publishing and scientific research, with the participation of university leaders, research institutions, and academics. The forum featured panel discussions addressing key topics, including: “Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence”, “Governance of Scientific Councils”, “The Current State of Fellowship and Residency Programs: Opportunities and Challenges”, and “Scientific Councils and Saudi Vision 2030” These discussions contributed to raising awareness about the importance of supporting scientific and research councils in universities. The forum also included a series of workshops led by experts in the field, covering subjects such as: “Distinguished Scientific Publishing: Strategies and Best Practices”, “Research Chairs in Universities: Partnerships That Create Knowledge”, “Using AI Techniques in Data Mining”, and “Scientific Societies: Establishment and Sustainability”. The accompanying exhibition provided an interactive space bringing together scientific councils, universities, and supporting entities, featuring booths, visual presentations of research initiatives, experience-exchange sessions, and specialized programs to support researchers, along with opportunities for research collaboration. In her remarks, Acting University President Dr. Fawzia Al-Amro emphasized that “scientific councils are a cornerstone in building the academic system and an effective tool for strengthening governance, ensuring quality, and supporting informed, balanced scientific decision-making.” She further noted that the forum enhanced collaboration and stimulated collective reflection on challenges and opportunities, supporting sustainable development goals and aligning with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030. Dr. Salwa Al-Mesabi, Director of Research Chairs, stated that the forum “provided a valuable opportunity to connect academic experiences, compare research models, and guide policy development to enhance the university’s research performance.” She praised the alignment between the forum’s topics and the university’s academic objectives. Dr. Jehan Al-Radhi, Director of the Humanities Research Center, added that the event “represented an important step toward addressing the needs of scientific councils,” noting its significant focus on artificial intelligence and its role in enhancing the councils’ performance. The forum concluded with the signing of several memoranda of understanding with international partners specializing in academic publishing and research. The memoranda were signed on behalf of Princess Nourah University by Dr. Jamilah Al-Otaibi, Secretary of the Scientific Council. The First Saudi Forum for Scientific Councils was organized as part of the Scientific Council’s efforts to achieve Princess Nourah University’s 2025 strategic ambitions, aimed at developing an integrated system for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, preparing competitive talents, enriching the educational experience, and advancing excellence in teaching and learning.