ACARI2023 Closes on a High Note, Paving the Way for Regional Academic Integrity Dialogue

Dubai, UAE – The inaugural Asia–Middle East–Africa Conference on Academic and Research Integrity (ACARI2023) concluded with resounding success, marking a historic step forward in fostering a culture of integrity in education and research across the region. Held in Dubai, the conference welcomed over 150 in-person delegates and 100 virtual attendees, drawing participation from more than 30 countries, transforming a regional initiative into a truly global event.

As the first conference of its kind in the AMEA region, ACARI2023 brought together a vibrant mix of educators, researchers, policymakers, students, sponsors, and integrity advocates. The event was powered by the generous support of its sponsors, including Platinum sponsors Turnitin and Studiosity, Silver sponsor BriefLands Publishing, and Bronze sponsor Epigeum, each contributing to the rich discourse and collaborative spirit of the event.

Adding further prestige, Dubai Tourism served as the official destination partner, positioning Dubai as a leading hub for academic excellence and innovation. The conference opened with a spirited desert safari, setting the tone for a warm and engaging series of sessions. The University of Lahore’s sponsorship was instrumental in enabling wide participation from Pakistani institutions, reinforcing the cross-border nature of the event.

The conference featured keynote addresses and sessions from globally respected experts, including Dr. Sarah Elaine Eaton, Dr. Thomas Lancaster, and Professor Ann Rogerson, who inspired thought-provoking dialogue on integrity in a rapidly evolving academic landscape. In addition, hands-on workshops led by Dr. Shivadas Sivasubramaniam and Dr. Sonja Bjelobaba complemented the robust program, which featured panels on themes such as global education, research ethics, and academic misconduct in health sciences.

The event also celebrated the engagement of school and university students, with competitions and awards recognizing outstanding contributions. Winners of the Best Paper Presentations, student-led sessions, and institutional efforts were spotlighted during the closing ceremony, showcasing the importance of student voice and innovation in upholding academic integrity.

Special thanks were extended to student volunteers from Middlesex University Dubai, whose dedication exemplified the crucial role students play in shaping ethical academic environments. The tireless efforts of the local organizing committee at Middlesex University, in collaboration with the ENAI WG Centre for Academic Integrity in the UAE, and partner institutions across the region, anchored the event’s success.

The conference was honored by the presence of distinguished guests including His Excellency Jamal Hossain, Consul General of Bangladesh to the UAE, and Mrs. Rania Sheir, Senior Specialist at the UAE Ministry of Education, who reaffirmed the importance of academic integrity in regional and international policy frameworks.

Founding members Dr. Salim Razi (Türkiye), Dr. Zeenath Reza Khan (UAE), Dr. Shahid Soroya (Pakistan), and Dr. Muaawia Hamza (Saudi Arabia), along with local committee chair Dr. Sreejith Balasubramaniam and technical chair Dr. Chris Hill, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, contributors, and supporters. They emphasized the importance of continued collaboration, feedback, and engagement to sustain and grow the academic integrity movement in the AMEA region.

In a thrilling conclusion, the bid to host ACARI2025 was officially awarded to Pakistan, promising another exciting chapter in the ACARI legacy.