SQU, represented by the College of Education, has organised the "Peer Advisor Forum" to raise awareness about the Peer Advisor Programme and its significance among the college’s students. It highlighted the programme’s active role in supporting new and struggling students, offering academic guidance, and encouraging more high-achieving students to participate as peer advisors. Additionally, the event sought to gather ideas and suggestions to further develop the programme and enhance its performance in a way that best serves the interests of both students and the college.
The forum also aimed to promote awareness of the importance of preserving the values and qualities expected of a university graduate. It addressed the significance of identifying students with special or psychological needs and the appropriate ways to support them, through lectures delivered by specialists in these areas.
The event began with a lecture entitled "Creating Positive Change is the Optimal Investment", delivered by Dr. Rayya bint Salim Al-Mandhri, Dean of Student Affairs. In her talk, she discussed the character of SQU graduates from several perspectives (values, behaviour, and educational model). The lecture focused on a holistic approach to education centred on developing the human being, and the attributes of a graduate who embodies this philosophy. The Dean also shared motivational messages with students, encouraging them to make the most of their time at university to enhance their character and refine their skills, ensuring they can make a greater impact in life after graduation. She shared real-life stories of students who overcame challenges in a positive way, thereby distinguishing themselves with strong values and practical skills that complemented the knowledge they gained through their studies.
This was followed by a lecture by Dr. Maha AbdulMajeed Al-Aani, Director of the Student Counselling Centre, who spoke about how to identify students with special needs and the mechanisms for supporting them.
In the “Graduate Experience” segment, alumni Khalid bin Saif Al-Maqbali and Safaa bint Saud Al-Siyabi shared their personal journeys in a dialogue moderated by Dr. Khalifa bin Mubarak Al-Jadidi.
Dr. Badriya Al-Haddabi, Chair of the Forum’s Organising Committee, emphasised that the significance of this forum lies in its role as one of the College of Education’s initiatives aimed at guiding students and reducing the number of those on academic probation.
The forum also included a panel discussion on the Peer Advisor Programme, featuring students Ali bin Khamis Al-Sinaidi, Bayan bint Mohammed Al-Farqani, Mahmood bin Yousuf Al-Farsi, and Wisal bint Ahmed Al-Abri. The session was moderated by Dr. Najla bint Salim Al-Saadi.
The forum concluded with a ceremony honouring participants and the winners of the competition for the best awareness-raising video.