The Independent Learning Centre (ILC) participated in the National Peer Tutoring Forum, organised by Sohar University under the theme “Partners in Success, A Future Excellence”. The forum forms part of broader national efforts to enhance peer learning practices and advance the quality of the educational process.

This forum, the first of its kind across the Middle East and North Africa, represents a specialised academic platform for the exchange of expertise and knowledge in peer teaching. The approach is recognised as a fundamental pillar in building a supportive learning environment, fostering active student engagement, and strengthening academic skills.

The Centre’s participation reflects its pivotal role in supporting peer learning initiatives and developing interactive learning environments. Dr. Hamood bin Salim Al-Shoaibi, Director of the Centre, presented a working paper titled “Sultan Qaboos University’s Experience in Employing Peer Tutoring to Develop Students’ Academic and Personal Skills”. The paper highlighted SQU’s role in empowering students, promoting a culture of collaborative learning, and facilitating knowledge exchange within the academic community.

A number of SQU students also contributed by delivering papers and training workshops. Zainab Al-Kindi from the College of Science presented a workshop entitled “Challenges of Peer Teaching and Building Resilience”, addressing key challenges faced by peer tutors and exploring strategies to enhance their adaptability and success. Similarly, Sama Al-Shaqsi from the College of Science delivered a workshop titled “Peer Teaching Strategies”, in which she outlined a range of effective methods to improve the efficiency of student learning.

The ILC delegation included Khadija bint Ibrahim Al-Balushi, Head of the Academic Platforms and Lounges Section, and Said Al-Kaabi, a student from the College of Education. Both contributed to representing the Centre and showcasing its efforts in supporting peer learning initiatives while strengthening its presence at this academic forum.

This participation reflects the ILC’s continued commitment to building effective partnerships and exchanging expertise with educational institutions. It further reinforces its role in empowering students and developing their future skills, in alignment with the strategic direction of SQU towards academic excellence and innovation in education.