The first University Council meeting of the 2015-2016 academic year was held on Wednesday, September 2. Dr. Azzam Al Dakhil, the Saudi Minister of Education and the president of the University Council lead the meeting. In attendance were UoD’s President, Dr. Abdullah M. Al Rubaish and Dr. Mohammed Abdulaziz Al Saleh who in addition to being the University Council’s Vice President is also the General Secretary of the Interim Committee of Higher Education. UoD’s vice presidents and deans were also in attendance.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Al Dakhil congratulated the University on receiving full institutional accreditation from the NCAAA and encouraged all in attendance to continue to give their best. UoD’s president, Dr. Al Rubaish welcomed the Minister of Education and then presented a brief summary of the state of admissions and registration for the 2015-2016 academic year. The Council then addressed the numerous items on the agenda for this meeting, which included topics such as the employment of 12 assistant professors, 14 lecturers and 9 demonstrators. Discussions also took place regarding various degrees, including: bachelor, master, doctoral degrees as well as fellowships and diplomas.
Other agenda items included approving various academic proposals such as a new program for the emergency medical specialty proposed by the College of Applied Medical Sciences and the College of Education in Dammam’s proposal for a special education master degree program. The proposed student activities plan that provides a variety of needed services for the local community, while at the same time teaching UoD’s students the principles of volunteer work was also approved for this academic year.
The Council authorized the recommendation that emerged from the Saudi Authority for Accreditation workshop with regards to a proposed cooperation between universities. The Council also approved other agenda items such as providing scholarships for faculty members, extending these scholarships and improving scientific communication.
Dr. Al Dakhil concluded the meeting by emphasizing the critical role the University plays in educating, training and developing students into qualified innovative professionals who will meet the demands of the Kingdom’s labor market.
