Wednesday 24 / June / 2026
Muscat: The Council of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) held its fourth meeting for the academic year 2025/2026 on Wednesday, chaired by Dr. Madiha Ahmed Al Shaibani, Minister of Education and Chairperson of the University Council.
The Council reviewed the latest developments regarding the progress of work at the university across various relevant aspects, alongside the executive status of the various decisions and recommendations issued during its previous meetings.
During its meeting, the Council approved the draft of the updated academic regulations for undergraduate studies. This comes within the framework of the university’s continuous efforts to develop and modernize its academic system to keep pace with the latest developments and best practices in higher education institutions.
The Council also agreed to add articles to resolve tie-break situations within the admission requirements for bachelor’s programs at the College of Education, thereby enhancing the principles of fairness and objectivity in the selection procedures among applicants.
Within the framework of developing academic programs to keep pace with modern scientific developments and meet the requirements of development and the labor market, the Council approved the introduction of a minor specialisation in nanotechnology at the College of Science.
This aims to provide the labor market with competencies possessing knowledge and skills in the field of nanotechnology by integrating multidisciplinary scientific concepts related to chemistry, physics, biology, and materials science.
This step contributes to preparing graduates who possess scientific and technical competencies in one of the fastest-growing and most globally impactful scientific fields, enhancing their readiness to contribute to research, development, and advanced technology industries.
Furthermore, the Council approved the introduction of a specialization in Special Education within the Master of Arts in Psychology program at the College of Education.
This aims to prepare specialised national cadres and enhance scientific research and professional practices in the field of special education, in a manner that meets the needs of society and the requirements of the labor market.
On the institutional development front, the Council approved changing the name of the Preparatory Studies Center at Sultan Qaboos University to the College of Preparatory Studies.
This aligns with the nature of its academic roles and actual competencies, further enhancing its role in education, scientific research, and community service.
The Council also reviewed the strategic risk management register and system for Sultan Qaboos University.
It commended them as institutional tools for enhancing readiness, managing potential challenges, supporting business sustainability, and achieving the university’s institutional goals in accordance with governance principles and best practices.
On the financial side, the Council approved the draft annual budget of the university for the fiscal year 2027.
It praised the university’s efforts in raising efficiency and ensuring the optimal utilization of resources in a way that supports the achievement of its educational, research, and institutional goals.
The Council concluded its proceedings by approving the lists of the university’s mid-year graduates for the academic year 2025/2026, comprising both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
