The Sultan Qaboos University Council held its meeting, chaired by Her Excellency Dr. Madiha bint Ahmed Al-Shaibani, Minister of Education and Chair of the Council. The meeting was attended by His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda bin Majid Al Said, the Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Chair of the Council, along with their Excellencies and distinguished members.
At the outset of the meeting, the Council congratulated SQU and all its academic, administrative and technical staff, as well as its students and graduates, on the University's latest achievement in the QS World University Rankings 2027. The University advanced 28 places to rank 306th globally, reflecting its continued progress in academic excellence. The Council commended the dedicated efforts of the University's staff and partners in securing this achievement, noting that the improved ranking demonstrates the University's growing academic and research standing. It also expressed its best wishes for the University's continued success and leadership at both the regional and international levels.
The Council reviewed the latest developments across SQU and examined progress in implementing the decisions and recommendations adopted during previous meetings.
As part of the SQU's ongoing efforts to strengthen its academic system in line with developments and international best practice, the Council approved the updated Academic Regulations for Undergraduate Studies. It also endorsed the introduction of additional tie-breaking criteria for admission to bachelor's degree programmes in the College of Education, further enhancing fairness and objectivity in the admissions process.
In support of academic development and in response to scientific advances and labour market needs, the Council approved the introduction of a Minor in Nanotechnology in the College of Science. The programme aims to prepare graduates with interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills by integrating concepts from chemistry, physics, biology and materials science. It is expected to equip students with the competencies required in one of the world's fastest-growing scientific fields while enhancing their readiness to contribute to research, innovation and advanced technology industries.
The Council also approved the introduction of a Special Education specialisation within the Master of Arts in Psychology programme in the College of Education. The programme is designed to prepare specialised national professionals while strengthening research and professional practice in special education to meet community needs and labour market demands.
As part of SQU's institutional development, the Council approved the renaming of the Centre for Preparatory Studies as the “College of Preparatory Studies”. The new designation more accurately reflects the academic nature of its responsibilities and supports its expanding role in education, research and community service.
The Council also reviewed the University's Strategic Risk Register and Risk Management Framework, commending them as important institutional tools for enhancing organisational preparedness, managing potential challenges, supporting business continuity and advancing the University's strategic objectives in accordance with principles of good governance and international best practice.
On financial matters, the Council approved the University's annual budget for the 2027 financial year. Members praised the University's continued efforts to improve operational efficiency and optimise the use of available resources in support of its educational, research and institutional priorities.
The Council concluded its meeting by approving the list of graduates for the mid-academic year 2025/2026 from both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The Council congratulated the graduates on their achievement and wished them every success in their future endeavours, expressing confidence that they will contribute to national development and progress through their knowledge and expertise.
In closing, the Council expressed its appreciation for the efforts made across the University and reaffirmed the importance of continuing to implement the University's strategic plans and monitoring their progress to ensure the achievement of its long-term goals.