“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character, that is the true education.” – Martin Luther King
The above quote truly symbolizes the kind of education many people seek around the world. It is what inhibits the true character we seek for ourselves. Aspiring students look for institutions that will not only help them be equipped with required skills but strengthen the bridge that will lead them towards their dreams.
We at The Knowledge Review, have found an institution that strives to provide its students with the quality of education that many young minds desire. We see it as our privilege to introduce you to Alfaisal University, which aims to serve humanity through its state-of-the-art courses and curriculums.
Let us provide you with a brief glimpse of the esteemed organization that is ceaselessly striving to deliver an educational experience that is shaping the youth of the 21st century.
Delving into History
Alfaisal University was founded by the highly reputed King Faisal Foundation in 2002. It is one of the first private non-profit, research and teaching universities in the Kingdom, committed to achieving international excellence. The institution is continuously supported by national and international co-founders and distinguished Board Members in its mission to remain a student-centered institution.
In the words of His Majesty Late King Faisal Bin Abdulaziz, ‘the education of youth rests on three foundations: faith, knowledge, and performance.’ These pillars have constituted the vision of HM Late King Faisal in determining the future of education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Alfaisal University’s mission is to create and disseminate knowledge through world-class undergraduate and graduate education programs, research, and service that will benefit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the region and the world in the advancement of a knowledge-based economy.
Today, Alfaisal University stands out among the best universities in the region. With the modern campus and labs and the help of its distinguished faculty, its students are achieving the top scores in national and international exams. Along with these, they are publishing their work in top journals and presenting their research at worldwide conferences.
Exemplifying Quality Education
Alfaisal University offers a wide range of Undergraduate and Graduate programs in its five disciplines (Business, Engineering, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Science). It has designed the programs in collaboration with distinguished international academic partners. This alliance helps to satisfy the local and international market demands and enable students to be prepared for employment.
Few of its distinguished colleges are: College of Business, College of Engineering, College of Medicine, College of Pharmacy, College of Science & General Studies, and University Preparatory Program.
Some of the notable Graduate Courses include:
- Master in Business Administration (MBA)
- Master in Biomedical Sciences (MBS)
- Master in Engineering & Systems Management (MEM)
- Master in Genetic Counselling (MGC)
- Master in NanoScience & Nanotechnology (MNT)
- Master in Public Health (MPH), and
- Master in Radiological and Imaging Sciences (MRS)
To know more about these courses, visit: https://www.alfaisal.edu/en/
Alfaisal University continually strives to create an environment conducive to learning and teaching. To achieve a student-centric learning approach, it has increased the number of small group discussions conducted to ensure a lower student-to-teacher ratio. It also emphasizes the participation of the majority of class that makes it compelling for shy and unprepared students to share their views. This, according to the faculties at Alfaisal University, pushes students out of their comfort zones and make them feel more accountable and comfortable taking part in class discussions that lead to a better understanding.
Celebrating students’ success has always been a part of Alfaisal’s culture, as the university believes honoring students for their achievements increases their confidence and self-esteem. Moreover, various data drawn from exams, feedback forms, QA surveys, etc. are continuously developed into meaningful programs or facilities. These help to influence how teaching and learning are conducted at the university and this, in turn, improves student achievement.
Towers of Strength
Many renowned institutions are run by leaders who are driven to transform the educational sphere. These leaders, through one end-goal, use their expertise and bring forth the necessary changes that are in dire need in the education system. H.E. Dr. Mohammed Hayaza, the University President is one such dynamic personality who is actively contributing to the growth of the Alfaisal University. In 2015, Dr. Hayaza took the esteemed mantle of the University’s President and as a board of trustee. He is responsible for visualizing and carrying out long term planning for the University’s growth.
Dr. Hayaza has been carrying forward the legacy and vision of HM Late King Faisal bin Abdul Aziz in driving the institution’s distinctive mission to become a beacon of light for science and technology in the Arab region. He plays a pivotal role in strengthening ties with top tier Universities of the world and creating collaboration opportunities.
Due to Dr. Hayaza’s commendable efforts, the University has seen massive expansion over the years and has gained international recognition and higher rankings among top Universities worldwide. His visionary leadership has transformed Alfaisal, its teaching, learning, research, and service and a culture that is shaped by a diverse set of shareholders.
But at times Dr. Hayaza’s heavy shoulders require people who can aid him towards his endeavors. HRH. Dr. Maha Bint Mishari AlSaud, the VP of External Relations and Advancement and Prof. Khaled Al Kattan, the Dean of the College of Medicine and VP of Finance are two personalities who play an integral role in supporting his vision to become a reality.
As one of the founding members of the Alfaisal University, HRH Dr. Maha AlSaud spearheaded the enrollment of women in 2011. Her Highness is passionate about bringing positive change for the women workforce, and has created and chairs several committees that govern women’s admission and work environment.
Alongside being the dean of the college, Dr. Khaled Al Kattan acts as a Consultant and Head of Thoracic Surgery at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center. With his exceptional knowledge, he has provided significant contributions to academic books ( Education in Anatomical Sciences and ESTS Textbook of Thoracic Surgery). He also has published papers on multiple subjects and participated in major research projects in the last 7 years.
Ultra-Modern Approaches
The University states that its plan to integrate technology in the curriculum offers huge benefits for both teachers and students. It further adds, the use of technology and various digital learning tools, smart classes and smart campuses are improving the quality of education. Moreover, computers, tabs, laptops, online and blended learning, and modern teaching methods are maximizing learning, increasing innovation, and improving teaching.
In addition, there has been a shift from traditional teaching methods to a greater emphasis on new teaching pedagogy such as: Team-Based Learning, Problem Based Learning, Simulation, Problem Solving, Cooperative Learning Technique, Case studies, Debate, and Group Discussions.
Leading towards Opportunities
Alfaisal University’s team states that its Alumni and Placement Relations Department work restlessly to increase the exposure and the career opportunities for graduates. The list of activities includes conducting annual Career Expos, linking alumni and students with employers from different sectors.
The university has arranged ongoing communication with different companies which enhances alumni and students’ exposure. Thus it opens opportunities for them from both government and private sectors and leads to a constant increase in the rate of their training and employment. All-in-all, the university makes every attempt at its disposal to create a bright future for every student.
Alfaisal University desires to keep on rising and keep on developing its approaches towards multiple ways of teaching. In terms of international expansion, the establishment of a new college (i.e., Law and International Relations), has been proposed, besides new programs with international partners.
Regarding the curriculum, the university continuously keeps its study plans and programs up-to-date. It is also planning to introduce a new degree to its existing courses (i.e., PhD programs). In terms of infrastructure, the university is moving towards developing a smart campus and becoming a leader in this area.
Words of Wisdom
When asked to share his advice to the aspiring students around the world, Dr. Hayaza said and concluded the interview with his valuable words, “As an experienced educationist, my advice to aspiring students would be to become self-aware of your needs and interests; as well as to understand what you are good at and what you would like to improve. Self-awareness is empowering as it helps you grow and make better choices while you adopt learning strategies. It helps you to stay curious and motivated to seek a better understanding of what fits best for you. Personalized education will only be successful when students simultaneously contribute to this ambitious idea and this could be your best contribution.”
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