Insights and Practices at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University
The Deanship of Academic Development at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) concluded, on Tuesday January 14, 2025, the activities of the "Enhancing Graduates' Capabilities through Teaching and Learning Forum 2025 (Insights and Practices)", which was held in-person at the Deanship’s building and inaugurated by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Abdullah M. Almuhaideb.
The forum was attended by a distinguished group of academic leaders, faculty members, experts, specialists, and students. It addressed the key challenges facing the business sector and explored the latest educational practices and methodologies that enhance graduates' capabilities to compete in the labor market. The forum included five sessions:
- Opening Session: Competency-Based Learning for Achieving Professional Excellence among Graduates.
- First Session: From Academia to the Market: What Do Employers Look for in Graduates?
- Second Session: Innovative Educational Practices to Achieve Graduate Attributes.
- Third Session: Active Learning through Acting and Drama: A Theatrical Experience.
- Closing Session: Discussion of Forum Recommendations and Participants' Proposals.
In his opening remarks, the Vice President for Academic Affairs emphasized the significance of the forum in enhancing university education outcomes and aligning them with the needs of both the local and global job markets. He highlighted the importance of exchanging ideas, sharing experiences, and fostering fruitful academic and professional partnerships.
On his part, the Dean of Academic Development, Dr. Mohammed S. Alkathiri, stated that the forum is part of a series of initiatives implemented by IAU to reinforce its position as a leading educational institution committed to preparing qualified graduates who can actively contribute to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Program.
The forum featured interactive panel discussions, live lectures, and performance-based presentations that addressed pressing topics such as educational innovation, competency-based education, employability skills development, and empowering students through active learning and transformative training.
Speakers shared valuable scientific and practical insights, alongside engaging discussions to enrich participants' knowledge on opportunities to empower graduates through effective teaching practices, fostering partnerships, and achieving integration with the business sector. Additionally, social work students delivered a performance illustrating the applications of active learning and post-graduation career opportunities in an engaging manner.
The forum concluded with a recognition ceremony for participants and speakers, followed by a presentation of the forum's key recommendations.
