Research Center Holds Expanded Meeting to Advance Research Performance
The Research and Studies Center at the Islamic University of Minnesota - Main Center held an expanded meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, chaired by Dr. Shaima'a Khattab, Director of the Center, with the participation of its members. The meeting comes within the university’s strategic efforts to advance the research ecosystem and enhance the quality of academic outputs.
The two-hour meeting focused on developing a comprehensive executive roadmap aimed at addressing research challenges and improving institutional performance within the Center. Key discussions centered on mechanisms of research supervision, as well as examining the causes behind student underperformance. Participants reviewed academic gaps in detail and proposed a range of practical solutions to mitigate them.
In this context, the meeting approved assigning Professor Dr. Musa Al-Dhaw, Deputy Director of the Center, to directly oversee the file of underperforming students. The Center was also directed to prepare periodic reports with accurate statistics on affected students, in order to develop systematic interventions that reduce underperformance rates and enhance research progress.
The participants also reviewed the quarterly statistical report to assess current challenges and proposed actionable recommendations to address them during the remainder of the semester. Additionally, a structured framework for first-term students was approved to ensure they are given sufficient time to complete their research according to quality standards. A fast-track communication mechanism via official platforms was also adopted to provide technical support, facilitate procedures, and allow students to revise their research projects effectively.
On the scientific activities front, the Center approved an intensive summer program including a series of seminars, conferences, specialized workshops, and training courses aimed at strengthening students’ research skills. Dr. Sura Mahiyadin was assigned to support the Center’s Director in implementing and supervising these activities, along with the establishment of an institutional electronic repository via Google Drive to serve as an accessible academic reference for students.
Administratively, the meeting reviewed ways to activate the Center’s organizational units, redistribute leadership responsibilities, and define job roles to enhance institutional efficiency. It also examined student complaints and proposals submitted by Center members, which will be forwarded to the university administration for appropriate action.
This meeting reflects the Islamic University of Minnesota’s commitment to building an integrated research system aligned with global academic standards and dedicated to improving the quality of scientific output.
