Objectives of Supreme Committee for Scientific Research and Development (SCSRD):
The Supreme Committee for Scientific Research and Development (SCSRD) is committed to fostering a robust research environment both within the Arab Open University (AOU) and across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Key objectives include enhancing and advancing scientific research efforts, as well as increasing visibility and understanding of AOU’s research committees, groups, and the valuable roles of faculty members.
By promoting the activities and memberships within these research committees, the SCSRD encourages broader engagement and collaboration in the university’s research initiatives.
The committee actively supports and motivates faculty and students to pursue research publications, present their work, and explore creative outlets for their research contributions.
SCSRD places particular emphasis on interdisciplinary research, encouraging the development of multi-disciplinary teams and the formation of research groups that activate and enrich research in diverse fields. Additionally, it aims to cultivate research that aligns with the specific interests and aspirations of AOU’s faculty, nurturing a vibrant research culture throughout the institution.
Through these objectives, the SCSRD reinforces AOU’s commitment to academic excellence and the continuous development of a strong research community
Responsibilities of the SCSRD:
The Supreme Committee for Scientific Research and Development (SCSRD) at the Arab Open University plays a pivotal role in advancing the institution’s research agenda through a range of responsibilities aimed at supporting and expanding scientific inquiry.
One of the core duties of the SCSRD is to collaborate with relevant university departments to formulate a strategic committee plan. This includes organizing seminars, workshops, and discussion sessions that address scientific research and university research policies, as well as producing informational brochures to enhance research awareness.
The committee actively encourages researchers to increase their productivity and impact. It also ensures that research grant supervisors are well-trained to assist applicants, both for internal and external support, with a centralized training process. In line with its role in managing research funding, the SCSRD oversees the announcement and submission process for internal research grants, manages project selection according to the university’s Research Grants Policy and Contract Administration, and gathers information on local funding agencies to encourage external funding applications.
Another key responsibility is utilizing the online research portal in Saudi Arabia to facilitate all correspondence and information exchange related to research activities. The committee is further tasked with monitoring and reviewing research policies and procedures, raising awareness of research opportunities, supporting faculty members in publishing their findings, managing the university’s research seminar series, and ensuring research ethics are upheld on campus. Additionally, the SCSRD champions research conferences at both the departmental and university levels, reinforcing AOU’s commitment to fostering a thriving research culture.
Members of SCSRD at AOU:
Dr. Salim Baqadeem (Chair)
Dr. Suliaman Al-Thuwaini (Member)
Dr. Bassil Kasasbah (Member)
Prof.Yahya Al-Sahbani (Member)
Dr. Najib Farhan (Secretary General)
