CEBA-Nizwa Meets Economics and Business Administration Dean

In a significant academic gathering held on April 15, 2025, at the Nizwa campus of the College of Economics and Business Administration (CEBA), the academic leadership of the college convened to discuss the current state and future direction of CEBA's programs.
The sessions were attended by key figures in the college, including Dr. Nasser Al Kathiri, Dean of the College of Economics and Business Administration, and Dr. Aziza Abdullah Humaid Al Qamshoui, Assistant Dean. Also present were Dr. Mohammed Ali Ahmed Obaid, Head of the Department of Economics and Business Administration (DEBA), and Dr. Mohamed Abdul Madhar, Assistant Professor and Specialization Coordinator for Accounting. Ms. Kavitha Rajan, a member of the Quality Team, along with V. Muruga Prakash, Lecturer and Registrar of Business Studies, also contributed to the discussions.
Emphasizing on evaluating the effectiveness of assessments in such cases, the first meeting commenced with an overview of CEBA programs, highlighting student distribution across the Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Bachelor levels. A detailed report was presented on the modes of course delivery—particularly online versus face-to-face instruction—and a review was conducted of courses that do not include final examinations. Staff workload distribution and qualification levels were also discussed, followed by a review of student support initiatives such as Personal Development Plan (PDP) workshops and academic competitions. The research achievements of faculty and ongoing research projects were highlighted as strengths of the department.
CEBA Nizwa tabled several strategic recommendations during the session. These included the introduction of new specializations, such as Supply Chain Management, and the establishment of a formal academic integrity policy. Further recommendations included the realignment of course content and learning outcomes to ensure consistency and relevance in an evolving educational landscape.
The second session focused on the Accounting Program, with a comprehensive presentation delivered on the content, structure, and supporting materials of accounting courses. The alignment of these courses with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) standards was a major topic, and the team discussed potential changes to elective courses to ensure both compliance and industry relevance.
To address assessment concerns, a formal mechanism is set to be introduced for evaluating the suitability of courses to be delivered without final examinations. Adjustments to the scheduling of midterm and final exams were also approved, aimed at minimizing conflicts—particularly during intensive periods like Ramadan.
The college also approved enhanced academic advising protocols to foster deeper student engagement. A robust policy on academic integrity and plagiarism will be developed, benchmarked against national and international standards. Other academic related matters were also included in the agenda but finality of decisions will have to be made on future meetings.
The meetings demonstrated CEBA Nizwa's strong commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement, paving the way for innovative developments in economics and business education across the Sultanate.

Writeup by Ms. Aliya Salim Musaba Al Nairi