SQU has launched the Student Advisory Councils Forum for Higher Education Institutions, under the patronage of Her Excellency Prof. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al-Mahrooqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, with the presence of His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said, the Vice Chancellor.

The opening ceremony, attended by 26 higher education institutions represented through their student advisory councils, began with a speech by Dr. Rayya bint Salim Al-Mandhri, Dean of Student Affairs and Secretary of the University’s Advisory Council. In her address, she highlighted the pivotal role of student advisory councils in building bridges of dialogue between students and academic administrations, as well as in supporting student-led initiatives that contribute to the development of a vibrant university environment.

Student Mubarak bin Ghazi Al-Hadhri, President of SQU’s Student Advisory Council, also delivered a speech in which he expressed the aspirations of youth in shaping a digital future rooted in awareness and responsibility. He affirmed that advisory councils represent the dynamic voice of students and serve as a strong pillar for educational institutions in addressing technological and educational challenges.

The forum featured an inspiring presentation on the SQU Coffee project, founded by student Mahmood bin Said Al-Bahri, as an innovative example of a digital student platform that has enriched the campus experience. The presentation shed light on students’ ability to transform ideas into successful initiatives.

Her Excellency the Minister also inaugurated the accompanying exhibition of digital student projects and start-ups, showcasing a variety of technological and entrepreneurial initiatives that reflected students’ creativity and ambition.

As part of the forum’s academic programme, a discussion panel was held on the topic Digital Surveillance: Between Freedom and Protection, moderated by student Hamad bin Ali Al-Badi, a member of the advisory council. The session featured Mohammed bin Khamis Al-Ajmi, an information technology specialist, who addressed key challenges related to information security and the importance of safeguarding users in the digital realm.

The first day of the forum concluded with a series of interactive workshops covering a range of topics, including digital leadership, the ethics of technology, and student entrepreneurship. These workshops offered participants valuable opportunities to deepen their knowledge and engage with experts in the field.

The forum continues into its second day, with further panel discussions and student presentations, culminating in a closing ceremony that will include the recognition of outstanding participants and a review of the forum’s key outcomes and recommendations. The event underscores the importance of enhancing student collaboration and developing effective mechanisms for youth empowerment amid rapid digital transformation.