Page 13 - Faculty Handbook 2021-22

In addition to the various standing committees specified in the DU Bylaws, there are a number of
ad-hoc committees, which are established by appropriate authorities from time to time to
accomplish specific tasks.

3.11. Internal Regulations and Operating Procedures
DU Bylaws specify various academic and administrative units, major committees and key positions
within the University, along with their responsibilities. In addition, the Bylaws lay down internal
regulations and operating procedures for the smooth functioning of the University.

To supplement its Bylaws, over a period of time, DU has developed and implemented a
comprehensive set of policies, procedures and guidelines. All these policies are included in
“Policy Manual” and are well publicized among internal stakeholders. This ensures that there is
transparency and accountability in the application of these regulations.

Major policy and strategic decisions are taken by the BoT and UC. The decisions taken at higher
levels are communicated to the stakeholders concerned by appropriate means and within a
reasonable timeframe. DU E-mail is the official Channel of communication at the University. All
faculty members are requested to go through their official DU E-mail daily.

3.12. Strategic Planning and Operational Planning

DU Strategic Plan (SP) is a medium term plan covering a period of ten years (2021-31). It draws
inspiration from “Oman Vision 2040” and is based on University Vision Mission and Values (VMV),
SWOT analysis, Horizon 2025 Document and Accomplishment Report of previous SP. The SP
specified the goals and objectives to be accomplished by June 2020.

The University SP is supplemented by an Operational Plan (OP), which specifies the strategies to
be used for the accomplishment of the goals and objectives set in the SP and the person(s)
responsible for that. The OP has well-defined Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and set targets
for June 2025. For monitoring the progress, QAD collects feedback from all stakeholders of DU in
the month of May/June every year.

3.13. Ministries having Supervisory Authority over DU

DU is subject to the supervision of MoHERI, which oversees all University operations; notably,
approval of new faculty, licensing of new programs, review of existing programs, inspection of
University facilities, monitoring of quality and providing guidelines from time to time. In addition,
appointment of administrative staff is governed by the Ministry of manpower (MoM) rules and
regulations. DU is also required to meet the accreditation requirements of Oman Authority for

Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance (OAAAQA).

3.14. Communication of Decisions Taken at a Higher Level to the Stakeholders Concerned
At University level, major decisions are taken by the UC, the VC and/or the DVC. Likewise, at
College (FP Unit) level, major decisions are taken by the College Dean (FP Director), in consultation
with the CC (FPC). For administrative and service Departments, the decisions are taken by the

Director concerned, in consultation with the immediate supervisory authority. The decisions
taken at a higher level are communicated to the stakeholders concerned by appropriate means
(DU Email, DU Website or Official Memos), within a reasonable timeframe.

Dhofar University Faculty Handbook (2021-22) Page 9