Mid East and North Africa Report

Earlier this week, a new chapter of the Association for Institutional Research (AIR) was born in Dubai.  More than 100 very smart folks representing 14 countries witnessed the birth of the Middle East North African AIR, or MENA as it’s now known.  Why is this important?  First, it’s been a dream by many throughout the region for many years as a way to elevate the importance of institutional research, i.e., the practice of using data to make decisions in higher education.   A stellar group of professionals took this organization from conept to reality over the past year:  Elizabeth Stanley (Zayed University), Jeanine L. Romano (American University of Sharjah), Maryam Aamir (United Arab Emirates University), Alicia Tartalo (American University in Dubai), Richard Miller (Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, UAE) and James Grasell,(Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE).

Another reason you might be interested in this story is that this region believes in the power of education and as one of places in the World where demand is steady, it’s a great laboratory for innovation.  They also know how to put their money where their mouths are.  As one attendee told me, “we operate very efficiently and are very cost-conscious.  But, if it’s a really big idea and agreement is reached, the money appears.”  My colleagues in the States should be so lucky.  Big ideas and money are both in short supply in American higher education these days.

You might also note that despite the newness of western-style higher education in this ancient land, most of the MENA attendees were seasoned researchers.  Their average years of service and education levels were higher than the average for all of AIR.  Combine this savy with a willingness to share data across institutions and perhaps borders and watch what happens.  As one of the four keynotes invited to participate in the birthing, I left in anticipation that with the horsepower available to this group, big things will happen.

My keynote dealt with using data in strategic planning (imagine that).  You can download a pdf copy here.

Rick Voorhees is still in awe on a Saturday morning in Dubai, preparing for the University Quality Assurance International Board meeting.