Islamic University of Minnesota Holds Academic Orientation Session

The Deanship of Student Affairs at the Islamic University of Minnesota - Main Center organized a comprehensive academic orientation session for newly admitted students as part of the University's commitment to preparing them for a successful start to the first semester of the 2026/2027 academic year. The session introduced students to the University's academic regulations, student support services, and administrative procedures, while reinforcing the University's dedication to providing a supportive and student-centered learning environment.
The orientation was held at the conclusion of the University's Welcome Ceremony for students and faculty members, organized under the patronage of Dr. Omar Ahmed Al-Maqrami, Vice President of the University and President of the Main Center, and attended by the University's leadership, faculty members, and administrative staff.
Opening the session, Mr. Sulaiman Maqbool, Director of the Undergraduate Student Affairs Unit, emphasized the University's strong commitment to student support and academic guidance. He encouraged students to comply with University regulations and maintain regular communication with their departmental coordinators and the Deanship of Student Affairs regarding attendance and any academic matters to ensure steady academic progress and maintain a positive academic record.
Mr. Maqbool explained that regular attendance and academic discipline are essential to student success, noting that unexcused absences may negatively affect academic performance. He also highlighted the importance of adhering to the University's Code of Academic Ethics, emphasizing that official communication channels and course groups are dedicated exclusively to educational purposes and that the University applies its regulations to preserve a respectful, professional, and academically focused learning environment.
He further outlined the criteria for selecting the University's Outstanding Student at the end of each semester, including academic excellence, attendance, professionalism in dealing with faculty members and fellow students, timely completion of coursework, and active participation in lectures. He encouraged students to make the most of their university experience by developing both academically and personally, citing distinguished alumni who now hold prominent positions in media organizations, business, engineering, literature, and other professional fields across the Arab world.
Mr. Maqbool also urged students to regularly follow their course groups, learning platforms, and the University's electronic student portal, which provides access to class schedules, examination dates, tuition information, academic records, and procedures related to deferment and withdrawal. He reaffirmed the availability of continuous academic advising and student support services throughout students' academic journey. In addition, he noted that the University issues professional training letters for students wishing to undertake internships with law firms, schools, training centers, and other institutions in their respective countries.
Representing the Graduate Student Affairs Division, Ms. Ruqayah Abdulhafeedh welcomed the new students and affirmed that choosing online education reflects their determination, commitment, and appreciation for the value of higher education despite geographical and personal challenges. She reassured students that the Deanship of Student Affairs would remain a reliable source of guidance and support from admission through graduation, ensuring a rewarding and successful university experience.
As part of introducing students to the University's digital learning environment, Ms. Bushra Hameed, Director of the Minnesota Platform for Education and Development, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the University's learning platform. She explained that the platform has been specifically designed to function seamlessly across smartphones and smart devices, providing students with flexible access to educational resources anytime and anywhere.
Ms. Hameed highlighted the platform's key features, including structured learning pathways, AI-powered learning analytics and progress tracking, virtual office hours, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and interactive learning communities. She noted that the platform currently serves 825 active students, includes more than 100 experienced instructors, and has issued over 394 University-certified certificates. She added that students enjoy lifetime access to continuously updated learning resources, enabling them to strengthen their professional skills and improve their career opportunities.
The orientation concluded with an open question-and-answer session, during which representatives of the Deanship of Student Affairs, joined by Dr. Zainab Ali Basyouni, Vice President of the University, responded to students' inquiries on a range of academic and administrative matters. These included the requirements for the graduation capstone research project, lecture durations, and various academic procedures governing students' educational journey.
The session reflected the Islamic University of Minnesota's ongoing commitment to strengthening communication with its students, familiarizing them with University regulations and support services, and providing them with the guidance and resources needed to begin the new academic year with confidence, engagement, and a clear path toward academic success.