The College of Engineering, national University of Science and Technology, welcomed the new students to its campus with a student orientation week packed with activities aimed to help with students’ smooth transition into the university environment. The Engineering Orientation Program from September 23rd to 25th, 2024, at the Caledonian Campus was conducted successfully with 228 students in attendance. The program’s goal was to welcome and help new engineering students adjust to the academic and cultural environment of the institution. This three-day event aimed to familiarise students with the University’s core values, academic policies, and the different opportunities for personal and professional growth available to them.
The day I opened with Meet and Greet sessions. The Honourable Vice-Chancellor, Dr Ali Bimani, welcomed the new students and emphasized the university’s commitment to academic excellence and student welfare. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr Salim Al Araimi, provided further insights into the university’s strategic goals, encouraging students to make the most of the available resources. Professor Dr. Ahmed Al Balushi, Dean of the College of Engineering, welcomed students with a message focused on the importance of discipline and dedication in their academic journey. Students also met with members from the key offices. The SAC/Bassma Club organized a warm-up activity to energize the participants and create a collaborative and exciting atmosphere for the upcoming sessions. This was followed by a presentation on the College of Engineering and its key offices as well as the SHSC Info (Sultan Haitham Smart City) by Mr. Jasim Al Balushi. Mr. Ali Al Ghafri, Head- Students Affairs, then presented the services available through the Student Affairs and Counselling departments. Following this, Ms. Bayan Al Khadour, a Level 4 student in the Chemical Engineering Department, shared her academic journey at NUST, highlighting how the university has supported her research activities on an international scale. Through access to state-of-the-art facilities and guidance from faculty, she has been able to advance her research and collaborate with global experts in her field. Mr. Ali Al Hashmi and Mr. Munthir Al Balushi from the Admissions team briefed students on the registration process and related administrative matters. Students were then given time to sign up for university clubs while enjoying refreshments. Mr Ibrahim Issa Al Balushi discussed the entrepreneurial support available to students, encouraging them to think innovatively and pursue start-up ventures during their time at university. Mr Elamana Ashraf led a session on Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) policies and introduced students to the various available laboratories. Ms. Sonia Buscano and Mr Renne guided students through the Academic Support systems, highlighting the importance of academic advising for personal and academic success.
The second day, Tuesday, September 24th, 2024, began with a session led by Ms. Namitha Krishnan. The session focused on Quality Assurance and Enhancements. Ms. Krishnan discussed the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards through ongoing evaluation and student feedback. Following this, the Student Advisory Council (SAC) presented updates on the various programs, activities, clubs, and annual awards available to students during their time at the university. The session concluded with a comprehensive departmental induction where students were introduced to their respective departments and faculty members, including a campus tour to help them become familiar with university facilities.
On Wednesday, September 25th, 2024, the final day began. Ms. Bushra Al Rahbi conducted a session on Academic Assessments and Regulations, providing a detailed explanation of the academic performance expectations and the integrity standards students must uphold. This was followed by a presentation from Ms. Etab Al Hinai, who shared information on global research exchange programs and training opportunities to encourage students to broaden their academic and cultural perspectives. Ms. Dana Al Rawahi introduced the students to the university’s IT services, student portal, and Blackboard learning system, which are essential tools for their academic success. This was followed by a session on Library Information Services, where Ms Suha Al Mahrami provided an overview of the library’s resources and support for academic research. Hisham Al Araimi then introduced the Oman Research and Education Network (OMREN), a platform connecting students and researchers to international networks, underscoring the university’s commitment to collaborative research. The program continued with a session on the College Code of Conduct, led by Mr. Mohammed Al Mazroui, which focused on the importance of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct in academic and extracurricular activities. Finally, the orientation program concluded with closing remarks from Ms Prekerthi Panikar summarizing the key lessons from the orientation and encouraging students to stay engaged throughout their academic journey.
Student Ambassadors from Level 4, Mohammed Al Haamdi, Nusaiba Al Fakhri, Bayan AL Khadouri and Maathir Al Qamshuai, guided the Freshers and gave them a campus tour.
In conclusion, the three-day Engineering Orientation Program successfully introduced new students to the academic and administrative aspects of the College of Engineering. The diverse range of sessions provided essential guidance on academic expectations, student support systems, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. The program laid a strong foundation for the student’s journey at the National University, equipping them with the knowledge and resources to thrive in their studies and beyond.
The students gave very positive feedback and found the sessions very informative. The College is delighted to welcome the new students and wishes them a fruitful academic journey.