Canadian University Dubai — University Governance Measures
Our Commitment
Canadian University Dubai is committed to maintaining transparent, accountable, and participatory university governance. The University ensures that decision-making processes at the highest levels are supported by rigorous ethical compliance, public reporting, and the elected representation of students on key academic and disciplinary committees.
Transparent Governance Structure
CUD’s governance framework is publicly documented and structured to ensure strategic oversight and academic quality.
| Governing Body | Role | Composition |
|---|---|---|
| Board of Trustees | Highest strategic body responsible for long-term vision, financial health, and institutional integrity. | Composed of corporate and government leaders, including the University President (Prof. Karim Chelli). |
| University Senate | Reviews and recommends major academic and policy matters to the Board of Trustees. | Includes the President, Deans, Program Directors, and elected Student Council representatives. |
| Senior Management Committee | Responsible for the day-to-day operational and strategic execution of university policies. | Led by the President and Vice-Chancellor, alongside Vice Presidents, Deans, and Directors. |
| Academic Council | Advises on academic programs, policies, teaching, learning, and research. | Includes Deans, Program Coordinators, and Student Council representatives. |
Elected Student Representation
CUD ensures that the student voice is embedded in university governance through an active, elected Student Council.
- Elections: The Student Council is elected annually each Spring semester. All full-time and part-time students are eligible to vote.
- Governance Integration: The elected Student Council President (currently Shaima Alhai) serves as an official member of the University Senate and the Academic Council.
- Committee Participation: Elected Student Council representatives also sit on the Student Disciplinary Committee and the Learning Resource Centre Committee, ensuring student perspectives are considered in critical institutional decisions.
Ethical Compliance and Integrity
CUD maintains robust university governance measures to ensure ethical behavior and protect whistleblowers.
| Mechanism | Description |
|---|---|
| Office for Ethical Compliance | All faculty, staff, and students have a safe environment to report suspected unethical behavior to their immediate supervisor, the Director of Human Resources, or the Senior Administration Manager. |
| Suggestion Boxes | Physical, anonymous suggestion boxes are located on both campuses (HUB and SOM) to promote anonymity, support inclusivity, and ensure confidentiality for those reporting grave concerns. |
| Research Ethics Policies | All research activities must align with CUD's Ethical Research Policy, Policy on Research Involving Humans, and Policy on Research Involving Animals/Biohazards. |
Alignment with National and Global Goals
These governance measures align with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), particularly UN Target 16.6 (develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels) and Target 16.7 (ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels). By providing clear structures, elected student representation, and accessible ethics reporting, CUD fosters a culture of integrity and accountability.
For more information, contact the Office of the Registrar or the Office for Ethical Compliance.