Arab International University (AIU) has achieved a new milestone in international academic cooperation through the successful selection of the HEAL-MED project for funding under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE) – Strand 2 programme of the European Commission for the 2026 Call.

The project, entitled "Managing Higher Education Governance for Inclusion, Diversity and Institutional Resilience in the South Mediterranean Region," aims to strengthen higher education governance by promoting inclusion, diversity, and participation while enhancing institutional resilience. It will achieve these objectives through the development of institutional policies and practices, capacity-building initiatives, the establishment of dedicated Inclusion and Diversity Centres, and the promotion of sustainable approaches to improving the quality of higher education and its contribution to sustainable development.

HEAL-MED brings together an international consortium of universities and academic institutions from Lebanon, Syria, Spain, Italy, and Ireland, coordinated by Beirut Arab University. Arab International University participates alongside Damascus University and Latakia University as the Syrian higher education partners in the consortium.

Arab International University, in collaboration with Beirut Arab University,  played an active role in the development and preparation of the project proposal from its earliest stages as part of a strong international academic partnership. This collaborative effort ultimately led to the project's successful selection for funding by the European Commission.

This achievement further strengthens AIU's growing record of success in Erasmus+ projects and reinforces its position as an active partner in international academic cooperation. It also reflects the University's commitment to fostering a modern academic environment, strengthening collaboration with European higher education institutions, and advancing its mission in education, scientific research, and community engagement.

The implementation phase of the project is expected to commence in the coming months in close cooperation with the international consortium partners. Through this initiative, AIU aims to generate lasting institutional impact while further expanding its contribution to international higher education cooperation and institutional development.