Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), represented by the Deanship of Academic Development, has been honored with a Recognition Award from the University of Turku in Finland. The award celebrates IAU’s steadfast commitment to advancing excellence in faculty professional development and acknowledges the strong, productive partnership between the two institutions in fostering education, innovation, and global collaboration.

The award was presented by Mr. Ari Koski, Representative for International Partnerships at the University of Turku, in the presence of Dr. Abdullah M. Almuhaideb, Vice President for Academic Affairs at IAU. The presentation took place during the closing ceremony of the Professional Fellowship Program in University Teaching and Learning (PFUTL), hosted by IAU with the participation of 80 faculty members from 18 Saudi universities.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Mr. Ari Koski stated, “I am pleased to present this award on behalf of the University of Turku in recognition of the fruitful partnership that unites us with Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University—particularly in the areas of academic development and faculty professional growth.”

Dr. Mohammed S. Alkathiri, Dean of Academic Development, reaffirmed the university’s strong commitment to empowering faculty members—especially in the areas of academic advancement and enhancing the quality of teaching and student learning experiences. He also emphasized the university’s ongoing efforts to disseminate and promote best practices in teaching and learning across the national academic landscape.

Dr. Abdullah M. Almuhaideb, Vice President for Academic Affairs, extended his appreciation to the PFUTL graduates and commended the dedication of faculty members in developing innovative teaching practices. He also praised the valuable collaboration with the University of Turku and expressed hope for continued partnership in the future.

This recognition highlights the ongoing strategic cooperation between the two universities in academic development and reflects IAU’s leadership and commitment to advancing higher education both nationally and globally.