Recommendations of the 19th Asian Talent Conference in Jeddah and the Future of Innovation
The 19th Asian Conference on Talent and Creativity 2026 concluded in Jeddah , under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Education, Mr. Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Bunyan. The conference brought together five days of intensive scientific discussions, featuring a distinguished group of experts, researchers, and decision-makers from 40 countries worldwide. It issued seven strategic recommendations aimed at transforming gifted education policies.
A strategic vision to enhance the knowledge economy
Saudi Arabia's hosting of this important international event comes within the context of a comprehensive development drive spearheaded by Vision 2030 , specifically the Human Capital Development Program, which prioritizes investment in national talent. The conference's success reflects the Kingdom's commitment to transitioning to a knowledge-based economy, where talented individuals are viewed as the true wealth capable of leading the future and driving positive change.
In their concluding statement, participants affirmed that the seven recommendations represent a roadmap for developing flexible national policies based on the latest research evidence. The recommendations focused primarily on integrating digital transformation and artificial intelligence into education systems, recognizing them as fundamental pillars for enhancing specialized programs for high-achieving students, thus ensuring the sustainability of gifted education both locally and globally.
Key outcomes and recommendations of the conference
The conference emphasized in its recommendations the necessity of building the professional capacities of teachers and qualifying them according to the latest international standards, in addition to expanding the scope of international partnerships. In this context, Dr. Abdullah bin Sadiq Dahlan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Business and Technology and Chairman of the Higher Supervisory Committee of the conference, commended the quality of the outcomes achieved. Dahlan pointed out that the in-depth discussions held during the sessions enhance the Kingdom's position as a regional and global center for developing advanced educational policies, praising the unlimited support that the education sector receives from the wise leadership.
Scientific movement and specialized workshops
The conference's final day featured a unique program that began with field visits to schools implementing leading models for nurturing gifted students, bridging the gap between theory and practice. The scientific sessions included specialized seminars that addressed specific topics such as "Creative Thinking Tests and the Environment," and the role of Saudi universities in fostering talent.
Discussions on “Double Exception and Green’s Theory,” organized by Elmbridge University, also featured prominently, highlighting the challenges faced by gifted students with special needs. The seminars addressed the concept of “megatobes” and national-level talent identification frameworks, reflecting the comprehensive scientific approach of the conference.
Future initiatives of the Asian Council
In a forward-looking move, the conference concluded with the announcement of a package of new initiatives by the Asian Council for Talent and Creativity, including research mentorship programs and the formation of special interest groups. These initiatives aim to institutionalize collaborative work and enhance international cooperation to build sustainable knowledge societies, confirming that what Jeddah witnessed was not merely a passing event, but rather the foundation for a new phase in the journey of nurturing talent and creativity across the Asian continent.
