Higher Education in the Arab World: Governance and Management from the Perspective of Oman and Sohar University

Abstract

The governance of higher-education institutions (HEIs) in Arab States is an essential element of modern institutional management, leadership, and overall performance. In addition, the governance and management of HEIs is ethical and it ensures the implementation of the academic and non-academic systems and functions that support the achievement of every HEI’s mission, vision, values, and the protection and sustainability of academic standards. Sohar University (SU), as a leading HEI in Oman, has a Governance Framework Charter (GFC) that is concerned with the governance and management of the institution, its management structures, processes, policies, and practices. It also ensures that the University is sustained in a dynamic, balanced, and disciplined way. Moreover, the GFC of SU has been established to ensure that governance practices are effective and appropriate; that the University is transparent and accountable to the various stakeholders; that the institution complies with legal and regularity requirements; that there is full disclosure of all pertinent information to stakeholders; that there is effective monitoring and management of risk, innovation, and change; that the University actively engages in a cycle of continuous improvement, that remains relevant, legitimate, and competitive; and that the University is viable, solvent, and sustainable. Thus, Sohar University and the Arab States are almost similar in that they are governed by a three-part governance system composed of a Board of Directors, a Board of Governors or a Board of Trustees, and an Academic Board. Each of these governing bodies has its own clear and distinct roles and responsibilities that guide the strategic goals and objectives of the university to fulfil its mission and achieve its vision. The governance and management system at SU is sound and meets the needs of the SU students, staff, and other stakeholders. The governance and management of SU is defined in accordance with the national and international HEIs standards and therefore, it is internally regulated by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) and audited by the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA) to ensure the overall compliance of the institution with the governance structures, systems, and roles.