Faculty Orientation Handbook 2019/2020

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Preface

This Handbook provides practical information that will help you get started in your work as a new faculty member at the College of Applied Sciences - Sohar. Further information in relation to specific tasks and expectations of faculty members can be sought from the Executive bylaws of Royal Decree 62/2007 regulating the Colleges of Applied Sciences.  Please do ask your Head of Department for a copy if you have not received one yet. The College also encourages you to study and get yourself familiar with its Policies and Procedures as well as the Academic Regulations of the Colleges of Applied Sciences. These are available with your HoD.

The information provided in this handbook is for the teaching faculty members that have been recruited directly by the Ministry of Higher Education, Sultanate of Oman. Some of the information mentioned in this handbook may not apply to staff recruited through an employment agency. Those recruited through an agency should contact their agency for necessary information before joining the institution. 

Welcome to the College of Applied Sciences-Sohar!

Table of Contents

Vision

College of Applied Sciences-Sohar aspires to gain national recognition as an applied sciences hub, providing practical and innovative solutions for the ever-changing local and national needs.

Mission

The Mission of CAS Sohar is the provision of targeted programs that produce graduates responsive to the changing needs of the labour market, supportive to the national plans by contributing to the achievements of sustainable development.

Values

In its overall performance, CAS is committed to the following core values:

• Professionalism: CAS combines knowledge and skills with competency, honesty, accountability, responsibility and ethical behaviour.
• Transparency: CAS acts in all matters with integrity, openness and fairness.
• Loyalty: CAS instils in its students, faculty and staff the value of being committed to the advancement and wellbeing of the nation.
• Recognition of Creativity: CAS is committed to the pursuit of inquiry, discovery and creation and dissemination of knowledge.
• Partnership: CAS collaborates and engages with other educational institutions, students, the industry and the community at large for applying knowledge to the well-being of the nation.
• Service orientation: CAS adopts the highest standards of services and effectively and efficiently manages its resources.

Welcome message from the Dean

Dear newly Appointed Faculty Members

After Compliments

It gives us a great pleasure to welcome you at the College of Applied Science-Sohar. We are glad to have you joining our academic team.

We wish you interesting academic year activities, wonderful classes, and a pleasant stay in the calm and beautiful city of Sohar.

Once again, congratulations on your new positions, and we are lucky to have you join us! We look forward to meeting you, and working with you throughout the academic year.

Regards,

Dr. Awadh Ali Al Maamari

Section One

1.1 Colleges of Applied Sciences

Through the Directorate General of the Colleges of Applied Sciences (CAS), the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) is responsible for the administration and management of six Colleges of Applied Sciences. The Colleges offer a variety of majors / courses and are located in the main regional cities of the Sultanate: Nizwa, Sohar, Al Rustaq, Ibri, Sur, and Salalah. The Colleges of Applied Sciences were established in 2007 by the Royal Decree 62/2007. However, they have a long history, beginning in the 1970s when they were established as teacher training institutions, awarding a two-year diploma in Education. In 1994 the Colleges converted to Colleges of Education, offering a four-year Bachelor Degree in Education. The first batch of education students graduated in 1998 with a BA Degree in Education in different fields (Islamic Studies, Arabic Language etc.) In 2007, since the mandate to train a sufficient supply of teachers had been fulfilled, approval was given to transform the Colleges of Education into Colleges of Applied Sciences. Remaining under the management of the MOHE, the Colleges currently offer seven degree programs – in Information Technology, International Business, Communication Studies, Design, Engineering, Applied Biotechnology and English Language for Teachers. The duration of study in these programs is four years after passing the foundation year successfully.

For more information visit: https://www.cas.edu.om/

1.2 Sohar College of Applied Sciences

Sohar College of Applied Sciences is located about 230 km west of Muscat, in the north of Al Batinah Region in Wilayat Sohar which is one of the most important coastal cities because of its historical and geographical importance. Sohar region is considered one of the most important national tourist attractions because of its history and spectacular scenery.

The College awards Bachelor Degrees in Information Technology (Software Development, Computer Networks and IT Security), and Engineering (Electrical, Chemical and Mechanical Engineering).  For more information, please visit https://sohar.cas.edu.om/

Important names to know at the College:

1.3 Initial steps during the first week at the College                                               

Before your arrival to the college:

• A representative from the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) will meet you at Muscat International Airport.

• You will be taken to a nearby hotel where you can stay for one day at the expense of the Ministry.
• A representative from the College of Applied Sciences - Sohar will come to take you from Muscat (the Capital) to Sohar city and you will be taken to a nearby hotel where you can stay for 3 days and these will be on the college’s expenses.
• During the first 3 days you will be provided with transport to and from the College.
• The College will pay a furniture allowance non-refundable if your service lasts for more than 4 calendar years. However, if your service lasts less than 4 calendar years, you will be required to return the amount paid for furniture allowance. The details of this can be found through talking to someone at the Administration department. Please note that the payment will need some time to be processes depending on procedures.
• You will need to look for long term accommodation during the first 3 days of your stay in the hotel. Ask your Head of Department or colleagues for advice on this.
• You should carry enough cash money to cover your expenses for a period of time until you are added to the payroll.

After your arrival at the College:

You will meet with -

• The Dean
• Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs and Scientific Research
• The Head of your Department
• College staff in the Administration and Finance Departments
• The Head of the Learning Resource Centre (LRC)
• Admissions and Registration Department Staff
• Public Relations Personnel

Note: The Head of your Department will assist you to meet with the administrative staff.

1.4 Processing important documents

It is helpful to bring at least 16 passport size photos with you. These will be needed to apply for and register with the various ministries and departments. The photos should have a mid-blue background.

1. Resident Card:  The Human Resources (HR) Department will help you in the issuance of a Resident’s Card in coordination with the Public Relations and Information Department. This involves a visit to the local Police Station.  You need to have a copy of your passport and a sponsorship letter from the College. You will be required to fill out a form with your personal details at the Police Station. A Public Relations Officer will escort you to the Police Station and will provide any help you might need.

2. Medical Card: In order to get a medical card, you will need: 1) two passport size photographs (2.5cm X 3.5cm). 2) A letter from the College. 3) For married staff, the photograph should include all your family members (spouse and children, if any). 4)  A copy of the resident card for the employee and his wife. 5)  A copy of the passport for the employee and all members of his family with copies of visas. 6) A copy of the employment contract. 7) The application and all attachments shall be sent by a cover letter to the directorate of Health Affairs, In case of approval of the application fee of OMR 10 will be paid by the employee at the nearest health center after which the card is issued. 8) The process may take a few weeks, and the Medical Card you will be provided is valid for 1 year and accepted in all public health institutions.

3. College Card / Name badge:

The HR Department will provide you with a name badge. This should be worn whenever you are at the College.

4. Driving License: 

Valid driving license from many countries are accepted by the Royal Oman Police. However, you should be aware that Omani insurance companies will only honor any claim on presentation of an Omani driving licenses. It is, therefore, IMPERATIVE for all residents and foreigners to acquire Omani driving licenses as soon as they can.

1.5 Faculty Duties and Responsibilities

Employees shall have to carry out their stipulated duties in the light of the provisions, laws and regulations around which these tasks are organized. As a new staff at Colleges of Applied Sciences you will be given a copy of the CAS bylaws which include all information about your duties, responsibilities and prohibited actions, a copy of Academic Regulations which deal with students registration, advising and the academic credit system as a whole and you will be given copies of CAS policies and procedures which govern the overall functions at the College.

1.6 Faculty Dress code                                                 

Oman, as a Muslim society has a conservative approach to clothing in public. Employees should dress professionally while at College. The following dress code is required:

Male: Smart / Business / Casual – business trousers, collared shirt, tie, covered shoes. A jacket is optional.

Female: Long skirt (not see-through or semi see-through), long sleeve blouses that do not expose the forearms, business slacks. If in doubt, ask your Head of Department or colleagues.

Note: Clothes should not be tight fitting. Denim jeans, shorts, t-shirts, polo-shirts, sandals, thongs and sneakers / sports shoes are not allowed.

1.7 Recruitment information  

Recruitment

1.  Staff recruited by private agencies (e.g., Hawthorn Institute, etc.):

• Should fill out the Decision to Receive Work form.

• Provide a copy of passport and education certificates.

2. Temporary Contracts:

• Should fill out the Decision to Receive Work form.
• Provide a copy of passport or identity card and education certificates.

3. Omani staff recruited by the Ministry of Higher Education

• Should fill out the Decision to Receive Work form.
• Provide a copy of the identity card.
• Fill out the CV form and provide copy of education certificates.

4. Non- Omani staff recruited by the Ministry of Higher Education

• Should fill out the Decision to Receive Work form.
• Original certificates and equalized certificates (if available) and IELTS certificates of at least 6.5
• Fill out the CV form and allowance form (accommodation, electricity and water) + furniture allowance form.
• Bring original passport, and medical checkup report to get a resident’s card.
• Bring evidence of line (mobile or land) activation from your phone service provider to get a phone allowance.
• 6 personal photos.

1.8 Leave-taking information  

• The new staff can apply for a leave only after completing 6 months. For more information about leave regulations refer to the Executive bylaws of Royal Decree 62/2007 Regulating the Colleges of Applied Sciences.
• If the staff takes more than 5 days leave, he/she should fill out the work commencement Form when he/she resumes work (Available with your HoD).
• The staff can take an emergency leave for 5 days from the college, which can be extended for another 5 days by the Directorate General should the need arise. The application for the extension shall be processed through the approval of the Dean of the College and the Director General with the reasons attached. Your HoD will have his Personal Assistant follow up the application procedures once you submit your application for leave.

1.9 Orientation Programme

The Orientation Programme for all new Faculty staff will be arranged by the College and may include the following activities:

1. Dean’s Welcome Address: A welcoming address for new faculty by the Dean, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment toward better facilities for the staff and the expectation that new staff will contribute toward quality of education and research.

2. Providing informal opportunities for interaction with the new staff:  As a first activity, the new employee will be given time to introduce themselves, including information such as their previous institutional affiliation, courses they were teaching, and a brief description of their research.

3. Introducing the general setup of the college and local community and guidelines for the new faculty:

• Attending some lectures like: Classroom Management, Know Your Profession & Students, Effective Communication Strategies in Classroom Environment, Use of Technology in Classroom, Course Design ( Objectives and Outcomes), Assessment Methods, as well as, organizing workshops in ASAS, SIS, Portal and Blackboard.
• A presentation about the College environment and local culture which will include the following:

1. General setup of the College and the local community

• Location and address of the College
• Basic facilities which include the restaurant, Masjid, banks, internet, location of various offices and departments
• Local residential areas
• Shopping places
• Tourist places
• Main hospital and medical centres
• Local transport
• Local dress and language
• Local people’s attitude

4. Introducing the Head of Department (Academic): Each academic  HoD will give a presentation which may include the following:

• Department faculty profile and their areas of specialization.
• Department research achievement
• Detail of specialization / courses offered by the Department.
• Details of students in the Department
• Details about course material
• Support of academic activities by the Department
• Job responsibility
• Staff expectations
• Department environment

5. Communicating general policies and procedures and introducing Heads of Departments (Non Academic): This will include an introduction of the Departments and their respective heads. A presentation by each HoD may include the following:

1. Head of LRC: Functions, responsibilities, provision of books, laptop and IT related activities, future plans.
2. Head of Student Services Centre: Function and responsibilities of student affairs, their past activities and future plans.
3. Head of Administration: College facilities for staff, administrative policies and procedures related to HR policies. For example, introducing procedures regarding the completion of documents by new staff on their arrival, how to apply for leave (annual and emergency), office procedures and resignation procedures. This may include the following:

• How to apply for a Resident’s Card
• How to apply for a Family Visa
• How to open a bank account
• How to get salary payment
• Payment of bills
• How to apply for a  Medical Card
• How to get annual and emergency leave
• Lines of  communication within the College
• Resignation procedures

4. Head of Finance: Policies and procedures of accounts related to staff.
5. Head of Admission and Registration Centre: Functions and responsibilities, examinations, students registration, advising, and grading system. 
6. Head of Career Development Centre: Function and responsibilities, past performance and future plans.
7. Head of Scientific Research: Research policies, past performance, future planning and College support.
8. Head of Mail and Documents Department: Functions and responsibilities and procedures.
9. Head of Quality Assurance Department: Process of quality assurance, expectation from all new staff and how to assure quality in teaching, research, office work and other related activities.

6. College and city tour at the end of the Orientation Programme: A short tour for the new employee may be arranged to see the different areas of the College including academic and non-academic departments, cafeteria and bookshop.  A visit to the local area / community to see local culture and tradition will also be helpful.

Section Two

2.1 General information about Oman

2.2 Omani Culture            

As in any Middle Eastern country, religion is the source of the culture. It dictates values, dress, hygiene, diet, everything. The majority of its people are Arabs with sizable minorities of Baloch and Swahili communities, besides foreign workers. The culture of Oman is deeply rooted in Islam. Omanis are not only tolerant of the beliefs of different Muslim divisions; they are also tolerant towards believers of other faiths, who are allowed to practice their religion in churches and temples. Omanis strictly observe Islam especially during the month of Ramadan.

The Omani national identity has evolved from its predominant Arab language and culture, its tribal organization, and Islam.

With a great amount of oil revenue, Oman has modernized itself with a sound infrastructure, roads, communication systems, hospitals and places of tourist attraction. Women are increasingly participating in national activities. However, western influences are quite restricted in the nation as an attempt to safeguard the interests of religion and tradition.

Public modesty is a way of life in Oman, particularly in matters of dress. For Omanis this means covering all parts of the body, including head, arms and legs. Men wear dishdashas, which are usually white. You will also see other colours worn too; however, coloured dishdashas are not allowed at college or work environment. They also wear a turban (Musser) or cap on their heads. Women wear the Hijab on their heads and the Abaya, a black cloak worn over traditional or western clothes. To read more about Omani culture, visit https://experienceoman.om/oman/oman-culture/

2.3 Important Dates in Oman  

1. Ramadan:

The holy month of Ramadan is a reflective period for Muslims and abstaining from physical needs. Though not confined to, the most obvious indication is fasting during the daylight hours. Therefore, to show respect, the non-Omani teachers are asked to not eat or drink in public areas. If you wish to know more, access the following website https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/oman/

2. Eid occasion:

1. Eid Al-Fitr – marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan
2. Eid Al-Adha – commemorates the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage.  If you wish to know more, access the following website http://www.whatiseid.com/

• note that you can refer to the Academic Calendar distributed at the onset of the Academic year/semester which has details on holidays

2.4 Capital city - Muscat

• Muscat is the heart of Oman and is situated on the Gulf of Oman in the north-east. It is a city of amazing contrasts. The city is large and quite cosmopolitan.
• While it is decidedly Islamic, there are many forms of entertainment to cater for different tastes. Restaurants are varied and plentiful. There are English films in cinemas.  There is a Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Opera House which has an extensive international range of musicians and performers. Western hotels also offer a variety of entertainment.
•  Muttrah Souk is an old, traditional souk. It is a must see where you can bargain over Omani silver and artifacts, spices, incense, clothing, shoes and Omani wooden chests, not to mention gold.
• Shopping is varied. There are number of grocery stores with a wide variety of foodstuffs. In addition, there are fruit and vegetable outlets. Muscat has several very large shopping malls and many brands of electrical and retail goods may be purchased.
• If you don t have your own means of transport, the best form of transport is taxis - easily identified in white and orange.  Negotiate your cost of travel to your destination before you take transport. There are also various rental car companies which offer reliable services.

             For top experiences in Muscat, visit https://www.lonelyplanet.com/oman/muscat

2.5 General information about Sohar

Sohar is on the coast about 2 hours’ drive from Muscat and also about 2 hours’ drive from Dubai. It was once the major port in Oman. It has a fort and a museum, a handicraft souk and many retail outlets and modern amenities. There are Western style hotels and restaurants.  You may refer to this website to know more information about Sohar https://www.lonelyplanet.com/oman/al-batinah-region/sohar

Shopping Malls

Malls are usually open from 8:00 am until midnight. The main shopping malls are Sohar City Centre, Safeer Mall and Oasis Mall. Also, there are so many supermarkets like, Lulu, Al Meera Hypermarket, Nesto, Grand Hypermarket and Carrefour.

Centrepoint – the one stop shop for electronics, garments, shoes, bags, cosmetics, furniture and home décor in their sections Emax, Splash, Shoe Mart, Baby shop, Home Centre and Max.

Souqs

These are traditional markets which sell items ranging from farm fresh fruits and vegetables, dates to frankincense. One souq is located opposite the Extended Health Centre, another one is near the Corniche, called   Souq Juma (Friday Market). Recently, a traditional souq has been built near the corniche. The fruit and vegetable market on  Wadi Hibi road offers a selection of fresh products.

 Sohar Fish Market has a wide variety of fresh fish – a real treat for sea food lovers. This is located on the corniche.

Health Care

Public and private health care centers  are available in Sohar. Sohar extended health centre is a government organization which is located in the souq area also Sohar hospital which provides a specialized health care. The private hospitals/ polyclinics like Bader Al Samaa, Lifeline and Aster are also offering health care facilities.

Leisure in Sohar

Cinemas

VOX Cinema in Sohar Plaza and Sohar City Centre and Nova cinema in Oasis Mall have been dedicated to providing entertainment in movies ranging in all genres for the residents of Sohar. Details of Show times are found in their website https://oman.voxcinemas.com/movies/whatson

Hotels in Sohar 

Sohar city has the following hotels: Crowne Plaza Sohar, Radisson blu hotel, Mercure Sohar, Atlas Hotel, Al Wadi Hotel Sohar Butterfly Hotel Suites, Sohar Beach Hotel and                                                                    Green Oasis Hotel.

Restaurants

There are restaurants that serve Continental cuisine, Indian cuisine, Lebanese cuisine, Syrian cuisine, Turkish cuisine, Persian cuisine, Thai cuisine, Chinese cuisine, and seafood dishes that offer everyone something new to try on the vacation. e.g, Silk Route - located in Sohar Plaza, Al Sallan - located in the Al Wadi hotel in Sohar, Sohar Beach Restaurant - located in the Sohar Beach resort. Most of the restaurants are listed in Talabat and Daleel 1010. For more types of restaurants please visit https://www.lonelyplanet.com/oman/sohar/restaurants/a/poi-eat/361109

Sports Complex

Located in Al Hambar near the bull fighting arena, this is a large complex with an indoor multipurpose arena, gym with fitness equipment, table tennis, outdoor courts for basketball, volleyball and handball, a football stadium and a running track.

Transportation and travel

Taxis (non-meter) are a common mode of transport to travel within Sohar or around. Mwasalat runs buses and taxies to various destinations in Oman and also to Dubai. If you are in Muscat, try OTaxi by downloading their App to your smart phone.

Car Rental

There are many car rental companies in Sohar, with options for daily, weekly, monthly and long term hire.

What to bring                                                                    

Almost anything can be bought in Sohar. The most important things to bring are clothes and shoes suitable for the climate and customs of the country.  Clothing can be made locally at a very good price. Tailors abound. You may need to bring a light jacket for winter evenings. Hats and sunglasses are essential.

Finance          

The Omani Riyal (OR) is divided into 1000 baisas and is tied to the United States’ dollar. Your salary is usually paid at the end of the month and is paid directly into your local Omani bank account. When you open your bank account you will be issued an ATM card. ATMs are plentiful in all cities. Traveller s cheques clear instantly.  Visa and MasterCard cards which are linked to international accounts can be used at ATM s but some attract a double charge. All credit cards are available. Please ask your bank for more information. The cost of living is quite low in cities other than Muscat where high rents influence expenses. You can sometimes negotiate a price for some items in some stores.

Housing          

Hotel accommodation is available. You may need to seek help from colleagues or from the local community to find suitable long term accommodation. Most people know someone who has accommodation available. Both furnished and unfurnished places are available.

Telephone and internet

Connecting to a phone line is quite easy if there is a line connection already in place. You will need to complete some forms from a telephone provider. Connection usually takes several weeks. You can also get a connection to the internet through this system. Connecting the telephone and internet takes 2-4 weeks. If there is no landline connection it can take much longer than this.

A USB modem internet service is also available at Nawras and Omantel shops.  Internet services are also available in all the Colleges for official work. Some Colleges also have wireless connections.

To purchase a mobile phone is very easy. A passport or Resident’s Card is required to apply for prepaid mobile services. Prepaid services are provided by several companies, including Omantel and Nawras. Prepaid loading cards are available almost anywhere. You can purchase a SIM card for your phone at the airport by showing your passport. There are several cell phones companies available at the airport.

Only GSM phones work in Oman, and if you are from Canada or the United States, only tri-band and quad-band phones work.  

Section Three

3.1 Important phone numbers and addresses          

1. Ministry of Higher Education

Phone: 00968- 24340999

Website: www.mohe.gov.om

Address: Sultanate of Oman, P.O. Box: 82 Muscat, Postal Code: 112, Murtafaat Al-Mataar.

2. Directorate General of Colleges of Applied Sciences

Phone: 00968- 24340580

Fax: 00968- 24340578

Website: www.cas.edu.om

3. College of Applied Sciences-Sohar

Phone: 00968-22056900

Fax: 00968- 22057001

Address: Sultanate of Oman, P.O. Box: 135 Sohar, Postal Code: 311

Website: www.soharcollege.edu.om

4. Emergency Police / Fire / Accident:  9999

Useful Websites and Telephone numbers

1. Ministry of Tourism: Tel: 00968- 222088000  www.omantourism.gov.om

2. Royal Oman Police: Tel: 00968- 24560099  www.rop.gov.om

3. Muscat International Airport: Tel: 00968- 24351234 https://www.muscatairport.co.om/

3.2 Frequently asked questions   (FAQs)                                                    

1. Who do I see for my laptop and CD player?

Learning Resources Centre

2. How do I borrow books from the Learning Resources Centre?

Approach the staff of the centre for assistance

3. Who do I see about printer and laptop problems?

Help Desk

4. Who do I see regarding Blackboard and SIS?

Support personnel in the Learning Resource Centre

5. Who assigns your room?

     HOD

6. Where do I find mail when it arrives?

     The mail is deposited in the pigeon-holes in Building B. This is on the ground floor, beside the main door of Sohar Hall. A request can be made to have a pigeon hole from the Service Department.

7. Where do I get my course books?

The coordinator for that year or programme at your department

8. Where can students collect their course books?

The store beside the male Students’ Activity Centre

9. Where is the photocopy room?

Each department is provided with a photocopy machine.

10. Where can I get stationery (e.g. photocopy paper, marker pens?)

The Department Coordinator

11. Who do I contact if I cannot come to work (due to illness)?

Head of the Department.

12. Can I buy meals on the campus?

Yes, there is a Cafeteria with reasonably priced meals. Deliveries to your office can be arranged.

13. Is smoking allowed?

No, the College campus is a no-smoking zone. Please respect Omani culture in this regard.

14. How are the students?

Omani students are pleasant, polite and supportive, and teaching them is an enjoyable experience. The best way to earn their respect is by being professional and doing your job well.

15. What about classroom discipline?

If you have any problems with discipline, usually, a word to the student(s) is enough.

16. I have heard about the male and female student divide.

Students begin their co-education at the Foundation level when they join the college, where they study alongside the opposite sex for the first time since elementary school. In the classroom, the male students prefer to sit in the front rows, and the female students prefer to sit towards the back rows. The entrances to the classroom are also separate for both the genders. 

17. Is student attendance important?

Students are to attend all lectures they register at the beginning of the semester. Teachers must take attendance for every single class taught and keep an organised record of this attendance. Student lists can be downloaded from the Student Information System (SIS) for this purpose. The registration department has introduced attendance marking on SIS for benefit of both teachers and students.

18. How is the absence calculated?

All absence has to be recorded, whether student brings an acceptable excuse or not.

Failure to attend classes without approval for whatever reason is considered as part of the percentage missed. The course instructor is to issue an oral warning to a student if his/her period of absence exceeds 5% of the total contact (teaching) hours of the course. Students may check their absence percentage by referring to portal.   

19. Where can I find more information about academic / examination regulations?

You can refer to the Academic Regulations handbook issued by the College for detailed description. This handbook is distributed to all the teaching staff.

20. Will I be provided with a PC or a laptop in my office?

You will be given a laptop by the service department (subject to availability). You must sign for the laptops and accept full responsibility for it that it is used for the time you are employed at the college, it may be taken home or to your classroom as you wish. That laptop may be connected to your office printer and internet/intranet, and in the classroom to the LCD projector.

3.3 New Employee Checklist