Arabic 
English 
As part of its academic preparations for the launch of the Winter 2026 semester, Vertex University held an orientation meeting for newly admitted graduate students via its electronic platform. The meeting aimed to introduce students to the academic system, study mechanisms, and scientific research framework, and to prepare them for transitioning into an advanced stage of learning centered on knowledge production and research development.
Opening Address by the Vice President for Academic Affairs
The meeting opened with a welcoming address delivered by Dr. Mohammed Abed, Vice President for Academic Affairs, in which he welcomed the new graduate students to the Vertex academic community. He described this stage as a qualitative shift in the student’s academic journey—from receiving knowledge to producing, transferring, and contributing to its advancement.
Dr. Abed emphasized that Vertex University focuses its efforts on building an academic environment that stimulates creativity and innovation, and on providing diverse resources that enable graduate students to keep pace with rapid developments in technology and knowledge fields. He also noted that the university adopts an approach that enhances the quality of scientific output through collaboration with international research institutions and by supporting collaborative publishing, thereby strengthening the university’s and its students’ presence in the global research arena.
Overview of the Academic Calendar and Study System
Following this, Eng. Nour Othman, Director of Academic Studies and Planning, presented the academic calendar and study schedule for the Winter 2026 semester. She explained that the semester will commence as scheduled according to the university’s approved plan on January 13, 2026, and will include a mid-term assignment during the study period, in addition to a final assignment following the completion of semester lectures.
She also clarified the grading and assessment distribution system, stressing that attendance at live lectures and active participation during sessions constitute a component of academic evaluation, given their role in enhancing deep understanding and developing research and discussion skills among graduate students.
The Role of the Deanship of Student Affairs in Supporting Graduate Students
Within the context of the meeting, Dr. Hanan Mohammed, Director of the Deanship of Student Affairs, addressed the students, congratulating them on joining Vertex University. She affirmed that the Deanship of Student Affairs continuously provides support, resolves issues, and follows up on academic schedules and lectures from the first day until graduation.
She further explained that the deanship is committed to familiarizing students with all university regulations and policies, ensuring clarity of rights and responsibilities, and contributing to a stable and well-organized academic environment for graduate students.
Technical Training on the University’s LMS Platform
The session then proceeded with a technical training segment on the use of the university’s Learning Management System (LMS), delivered by the Technical Administration Officer. The training covered mechanisms for navigating the platform, managing lectures and assignments, and utilizing various communication channels, ensuring ease of use and effective engagement with the educational process.
Student Interaction and Discussion of Inquiries
During the interactive segment of the meeting, students actively participated by raising questions and offering suggestions.
Students also inquired about coursework assignments, semester activities, and scientific research requirements. In response, the Vice President for Academic Affairs explained that assignments and coursework are determined by the course instructor in coordination with students during the study period, within the framework of the university’s academic plan and learning objectives, contributing to students’ preparation for the highest academic and professional levels.
Additionally, students asked about course distribution and program structure. It was confirmed that the university, across its three colleges, coordinates courses among different specializations through academically professional program designs that ensure comprehensive academic and professional content aligned with the latest labor market developments and international academic standards. The Technical Administration further confirmed that all courses and schedules are clearly and proactively displayed on the university’s platform.
Student Engagement and Key Inquiries
In the concluding part of the orientation meeting, the floor was opened for interaction with new graduate students, who shared their inquiries and proposals, reflecting their eagerness to understand the academic and organizational aspects of their academic journey. The main inquiries focused on communication channels, assessment mechanisms and assignments, and course organization, with comprehensive and direct responses provided by the relevant university departments.
- Communication Channels with University Administrations and Faculty Members
Among the most prominent questions raised were inquiries regarding communication channels with various university administrations and methods of contacting faculty members.
The Technical Administration Officer explained that Vertex University’s electronic platform is equipped with direct and instant communication channels, enabling students to communicate with academic and administrative units, send emails to faculty members, submit complaints, or send urgent messages in cases requiring prompt intervention, ensuring responsiveness and effective communication.
In the same context, the Director of the Deanship of Student Affairs added that the university also provides additional communication channels outside the platform through social media applications such as WhatsApp. She clarified that these channels operate under full university supervision and within an organized framework, ensuring effective communication without compromising academic or ethical considerations.
- Coursework Assignments, Semester Activities, and Scientific Research
Students also raised questions regarding the nature of coursework assignments, semester activities, and scientific research. The Vice President for Academic Affairs clarified that these requirements are set by the course instructor in coordination with students throughout the study process and within the framework of the approved academic plan and educational objectives, contributing to improved academic performance and preparing students to achieve advanced scientific and professional standards.
- Course Organization and Distribution of Study Materials
Students further inquired about course organization and the distribution of study materials. It was emphasized that the university, through its three colleges, coordinates courses across different specializations according to professionally designed academic programs that ensure comprehensive scientific and professional coverage and alignment with the latest labor market trends and global academic standards. The Technical Administration confirmed that all courses and study schedules are clearly presented in advance on the university’s electronic platform.
Academic Preparations for a Strong Start
The organization of this orientation meeting reflects Vertex University’s commitment to comprehensive academic and administrative preparation ahead of the semester’s commencement, and to providing graduate students with a clearly structured educational environment. This approach ensures an ideal beginning and a strong launch for their academic and research journey, and underscores the university’s dedication to supporting scientific research and enhancing the quality of graduate studies in line with best practices in higher education.
