The recent "Productive University Exhibition ... Production & Aspirations", organised by Al-Imam Muhammed Ibn Saud Islamic University is a milestone in the history of this university which was founded in 1974. This university is famous for graduating many of the prominent figures, and hosting tens of foreign students to study various specialisations in its 12 colleges. The exhibition, the first of its kind in the Middle East, has invited important participants from various sectors of the society. It is probably the first practical endeavour that is in harmony with the "Saudi 2030 Vision." The idea of the productive university is a creative concept that aims at promoting role of the universities in national production. In the past, the country's leadership has been generous in helping our universities financially, but the time has come that these universities should work for autonomy and self-reliance by seeking new outlets to finance its educational programs. By organising this exhibition, the University is shifting from the traditional teaching process to a more practical policy. Supported by well-prepared plans and designs, the university has become a model in implementing its social responsibility and achieving knowledge economy. The simple signing of six investment agreements with major economic organisations is an indication of the major shift in the mentality of the university leadership and management. Any new income will not only lead to strengthening of the University's financial position but will help support students' research. This is a long-awaited step. So far, we have 34 universities- Public and private- but few of them are competing at the international level as far as research is concerned, so this step comes to fill in the gap. In seeking investment and diversifying resources, the Imam University is no exception in this respect since major universities in the world have their sovereign investment funds and in some cases their budgets are higher than budgets of some under developing countries. As such, this exhibition has provided a platform for the researchers to present their latest innovations which could meet some local needs and requirements. In fact this exhibition is a step forward in marketing and selling of the University products under certain brands and labels. The mere fact that some major organisations were partners in and sponsors of this exhibition is an indicator that our universities have embarked upon a new venture which is an added value in their visions and missions. What we hope for is to see more of our universities organise similar activities and help in fulfilling a promising future for our country and next generations. Dr. Talal Al Harbi
