President of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at King Abdul Aziz University (KAU), explains Tuesday how KAU's International Academic Board will function. (Courtesy photo) JEDDAH: The International Academic Board (IAB) established by King Abdul Aziz University will help it develop according to top international standards, said Dr. Adnan Zahed, Vice-President of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at KAU. In an interview with Saudi Gazette Tuesday, he said the IAB will work on expanding academic and research partnerships with international and industrial institutions around the world. The establishment of the IAB was approved by King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Zahed said that experts will provide their advice on how the university can improve its teaching. He said the resumes of the 20 nominees from the academic and industrial sectors were carefully studied. “All of them have made influential contributions to the advancement and development of their universities and corporations. A number of those who had occupied top positions in their native countries were chosen to give us the best of their experience in higher education, research and matters applicable to the job market,” Zahed said. After three years, the current members of the board will be partially changed. “A group of them will be replaced while another group will retain its membership, which should provide the board with fresh perspectives,” he said. Keeping a number of the original members on the board will ensure continuity, he added. “KAU is looking forward to the valuable contribution of the IAB members who will provide the university with an effective plan that will help our citizens and the Kingdom as a whole,” said Zahed.
