Al Maarefa University’s Commitment to SDG 11: Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities in Saudi Arabia

Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities. Al Maarefa University, situated in Saudi Arabia, recognizes the significance of SDG 11 and is dedicated to addressing urbanization challenges through education, research, and community engagement to foster sustainable urban development.

Promoting Sustainable Urban Planning Education:

Al Maarefa University plays a pivotal role in educating future urban planners and professionals who can contribute to sustainable urban development. The university offers programs that emphasize concepts such as urban design, land use, transportation, and environmental considerations. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to create livable and sustainable urban environments, the university contributes to SDG 11’s objectives.

Research on Urban Sustainability:

The university engages in research projects focused on urban sustainability, exploring innovative solutions to address challenges related to urbanization, infrastructure, transportation, and environmental degradation. By conducting research that informs urban planning practices, Al Maarefa University supports the development of policies and strategies that promote sustainable cities and communities.

Community Engagement for Sustainable Practices:

Al Maarefa University actively engages with local communities to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the importance of sustainable urban development. Through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns, the university empowers community members to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors, reduce waste, and participate in initiatives that enhance the quality of urban life.

Collaborations with Local Authorities:

The university collaborates with local authorities, municipalities, and government agencies to align its initiatives with the broader goals of sustainable urban development. These collaborations facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources, allowing the university to contribute effectively to shaping more sustainable cities and communities.

Promotion of Green Infrastructure:

Al Maarefa University emphasizes the importance of green infrastructure and sustainable building practices in urban development. The university encourages the incorporation of green spaces, energy-efficient designs, and environmentally friendly materials into urban projects. By promoting green infrastructure, the university contributes to creating healthier and more sustainable urban environments.

Integration of Sustainable Development Principles:

Sustainable development principles are integrated into various aspects of Al Maarefa University’s operations, including campus planning, construction, and resource management. The university’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond education to exemplify practices that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient campus environment.

Innovative Solutions for Urban Challenges:

Al Maarefa University encourages students and faculty to develop innovative solutions for urban challenges. The university fosters a culture of creativity and problem-solving, enabling its community to contribute to overcoming urbanization-related issues in Saudi Arabia.

Al Maarefa University’s commitment to SDG 11 is evident through its multifaceted efforts to promote sustainable cities and communities. By offering education in urban planning, conducting research, engaging with communities, collaborating with authorities, and advocating for sustainable practices, the university plays a crucial role in shaping the future of urban development in Saudi Arabia. Through its dedication, Al Maarefa University contributes significantly to creating livable, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities that enhance the well-being of all residents.

Library and digital library

The UM library offer the need textbooks and the additional references print/online for the offered academic programs in accordance with the courses specifications that aims at providing the students with the needs knowledge/skills to attains the program/courses outcomes. The library contains thousands of paper/electronic books, journals, periodicals, etc. in the library shelves and/or via the Saudi digital library SDL.

UM Library

the library/digital library are reviewed and updated annually with new books and references that meet the academic program needs

Saudi Digital Library

the library/digital library are reviewed and updated annually with new books and references that meet the academic program needs

RULES FOR MAINTAINING DISCIPLINE WITHIN THE LIBRARY

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These guidelines are intended to establish a general rule that directs library user behavior within the library in such a way that visitors and other library users can make effective and smooth utilization of the library’s resources, services, and facilities.

GENERAL RULES

All the users of the Library shall adhere to the following rules:

·        Members are expected to maintain silence and not indulge into any act which may disturb the reading or study of other users or interfere with the proper functioning of the Library.

·        Readers should not mark, deface, mutilate, underline, dog-ear mark, write, tear pages, spoil or damage the library documents/materials. If anyone is found doing so, he/she will be charged with the full replacement cost of damaged material and may lead to suspension of library membership.

·        No Library material can be taken out from the library without prior permission and issuance.

·        Use of robots, spiders or intelligent agents to access, search or systematic downloading from these resources is also prohibited.

·        All the members of the Library shall abide by the rules and regulations issued by the Librarian from time to time.

·        Respecting the other users and the reading environment in the library, sleeping is not permitted on the premises of the library.

·        Users shall comply with the instructions to vacate the library immediately after the call to prayer.

·        To comply with the library closing times

·        It is not permitted to eat or drink in the library, however, only water is permitted.

·        Users shall comply to wear uniforms as per the policy of the university.

·        Not to do any inappropriate saying or action that would harm the reputation of the university or any of its faculty or staff members.

·        Treat all library employees and visitors with politeness and respect to serve you better.

·        Taking care of the books and references inside the library and using them in the correct way without any appending damage to it, whether by destroying some pages or writing on them

·        Avoid writing, drawing, and placing signs or lines on books, office equipment, equipment, furniture and on the wall, etc

·        It is not permitted to hold student meetings or discussion groups on the library premises.

·        The computer devices in the library are designed for student services, and they are not permitted to be used for accessing electronic games, non-educational websites or watching non-educational videos, etc.

·        The use of external storage is not allowed.

·        Users shall shut down the computer after using it.

·        Maintaining and taking care of the integrity of the equipment and items/materials in the library.

·        Users shall carry the university Identity Card and present it whenever is asked by the library staff.

·        Users shall comply with the deadlines for returning issued books.

·        Users shall comply with the regulations, rules, instructions, respect the rights of others who are library visitors and adhere to responsibilities and behaviors in the library.

·        Users shall abide by the rules and regulations set for the fair use of the library, its facilities, and holdings, and shall not use any of its facilities illegally.

·        The library staff will provide sufficient information to benefit from the library. Do not hesitate to ask for help and advice.

·        The Library welcomes any suggestions or comments from the users.

MEMBERSHIP RULES:

·        The Library is primarily meant for the use of academic fraternity comprising of faculty, researchers, students, and non-teaching employees of the University.

·        However, visitors of other universities/organizations are also allowed to consult the library on written requests or recommendations from their respective institutions for a limited period.

·        Faculty, students, and staff can enroll for library membership by producing their ID issued by the University. 

Library Services

The Library and Learning Resources Centre deliver a high quality, innovative,and excellent information service to the University community that meets their information requirements.

Major Services

Major Services are as Follows

·        Lending Service

·        Reference Service,

·        Referral Service,

·        Online reservation of books,

·        Bibliometric and Bibliographic Services,

·        Current Awareness Service (CAS),

·        Photocopying / Printing / Scanning services,

·        Orientation and Information Literacy Sessions,

·        Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI),

·        Digital Library Services,

·        Audio Visual and Multimedia Service.

·        The Library provides web OPAC, borrowing services, digital library services, and specialized global databases of e-journals, e-books, and other electronic resources.

·        The library acquires and provides services by acquiring textbooks, references books, periodicals, scientific databases, and other information resources including e-resources and online databases which fulfill the information needs of the university community.

·        The acquired resources are scientifically classified, cataloged, indexed, and shelved to facilitate easy access by all the users of the library.

·        The students, faculty members, staff, and researchers have access to a variety of reference and research services at the University Library.

·        Apart from the provision of various types of traditional services, the university library provides digital library services by subscribing to a number of online global databases in accordance with the requirements of various departments and colleges as per the courses and curricula of various programs.

·        The Library will provide user manuals/information guides for utilizing various types of services from time to time.

AlMaarefa University celebrates the National Day of the Kingdom

On Sunday, 27/9/2020 AD, Al-Maarefa University held celebrations on the occasion of the 90th National Day of the Kingdom, and this precious occasion comes to commemorate and immortalize the heroic exploits and epics of the founder of this country, the late King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud, and his righteous sons, who succeeded him in leading this country to safety, and brought about a comprehensive development renaissance at various levels.

Under the patronage of His Excellency the President of the University, Prof. Dr. Walid bin Hussein Abu Al-Faraj, and in the presence of university vice-rectors, deans of colleges, faculty members, employees and students, the celebration activities were held with joy and pleasure, by planting seedlings of love with the participation of officials and students at the university, and the Department of Student Activities participated in launching a competition for this glorious day that included photography and video skills, and prizes were distributed to the winners of the participants.

His Excellency the Director extended his highest congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince on this day, which expresses the love of the homeland and the symbol of our unity and appreciates the sincere efforts of the people of this country for the sake of its pride and development, and this celebration was prepared and arranged by the Deanship of Student Affairs and the Public Relations Department, under the direct supervision of His Excellency Dr. Nasser Al-Jarallah, Vice President of the University.

This celebration included many participations that took place under the precautionary measures to congratulate the National Day in an atmosphere in which the university’s headquarters were decorated with the flags of the dear homeland, green lights and paintings that express thanks and gratitude to our loyal and loyal leaders and their efforts and the reasons they took for the elevation and status of this dear country and making it among the most civilized and sophisticated countries in the world.

90 outstanding university graduates and honorary holders were also celebrated to focus on the ears of our students for the number of years of the National Day.

On this occasion, a symposium entitled “Saudi Health Services during the Corona Pandemic: Humanity Manifests” was held, which included the quality of the preventive and curative precautions system and pharmaceutical assistance to brotherly countries.

The free treatment services provided to residents, and the events included honoring students for their volunteer work, active participation and providing services in addressing the Corona pandemic.

On the anniversary of this day, we must preserve the covenant of what the ancestors achieved from the greatest unity known to contemporary history, where all the elements of pride and unification were available, and because of which this country and citizens achieved security, safety, stability, progress and prosperity in all aspects of life, thanks to God – Almighty – and then for the efforts of our loyal leaders, and we have the duty to educate our children and grandchildren what the first generation did by conveying the message and continuing sincere efforts in love of the homeland and dedication to its service, so that giving and praise be to God continues.

king abdulaziz public transport project (trains – buses) in Riyadh

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The council of ministers approved the implementation of the public transport project in Riyadh (trains- buses) in full stages in accordance with the studies it has prepared and which will be prepared by the royal authority of Riyadh with the participation of the competent authorities to find radical and comprehensive solutions to traffic jams in Riyadh.

High committee to oversee the project

One of the meetings of the high committee to oversee the public transport project in Riyadh is chaired by his royal highness prince Faisal bin bandar bin Abdul-Aziz.

In accordance with the decision of the distinguished council of ministers, a high committee oversees the implementation of the Riyadh train project and establishes a parallel bus transport network in accordance with the comprehensive public transport plan drawn up by the royal Riyadh city authority, which aims to provide public transport service to all population groups, diversify the patterns and means of movement in the city in an effective and appropriate manner, reduce the excessive use of the private vehicle, and meet existing and expected mobility requirements, in accordance with the social, economic, environmental and transit conditions.

The committee has begun to determine the steps of the implementation of the project and to establish a timetable for its implementation, in the light of studies, specifications, designs and proposal and implementation documents prepared by the royal Riyadh city authority for various elements of the project, which will achieve significant returns on the city and its inhabitants, god willing, beyond the provision of public transport service to all categories of the population, to the traffic, economic, urban, social, health and environmental aspects, in addition to establishing a permanent transport system that will keep pace with the great growth of the city, and meet the requirements of existing and expected mobility. in the future with god’s help.

(1) Riyadh train project

Map of Riyadh train tracks and stations

Riyadh’s train network is the backbone of Riyadh’s public transport system, with six main hubs selected with a total length of 176 kilometres and 85 stations covering most densely populated areas, government facilities, commercial, educational and health activities, linked to king Khalid international airport, king Abdullah financial center, major universities, the city centre and the public transport center.

The six tracks of Riyadh’s train network are divided among:

• the first track (blue line) is the axis of the upper- al-batha- al-hayr, 38 km long.
• the second route (red line) is the king Abdullah road, 25.3 km long.
• route 3 (orange line) is the hub of medina road – prince Saad bin Abdulrahman I road 40.7 km long.
• route 4 (yellow line) is the 29.6 km hub of king Khalid international airport.
• the fifth track (green line) is the 12.9 km axis of king Abdul-Aziz road.
• route 6 (purple line) is the axis of the Abdul Rahman bin Ouf road – sheikh Hassan bin Hussein bin Ali road, 30 km long.

Design and Specifications

The train network is state-of-the-art, and the train operating system has been automatically (driverless) with operating control from central control rooms with specifications that enable high-resolution operation.

The vehicle specifications included the latest technology for the manufacture of train carriages in the world and the vehicles can be separated from the inside to accommodate categories of service while providing a family class, and vehicles provide communication, transportation and exchange of information services to passengers.

A unified train design has also been developed, and all coalitions implementing the project have been asked to abide by it to give a distinctive feature to riyadh trains, and all coalitions have confirmed their commitment to this unified design.

interior design of train cars

interior design of train cars

the colors of the train carriages match the colors of the six tracks

Stations

Riyadh train station on the eastern ring road

The stations are designed in a unified architectural style to represent the identity of the public transport project in riyadh, and all stations will be air-conditioned and will include all amenities and safety for passengers, in addition to internet access, and will include flight information systems, while some stations will include shops and parking.

The plant design also includes the use of solar cell technology, which will contribute to 20% of the electricity consumption needed for air conditioning and lighting.

Main Stations

map showing the main stations of the Riyadh train

The Riyadh train project includes four main stations at the intersection of train tracks, and the main stations are one of the most important factors of success of the public transport system in the city and a major factor to attract passengers due to their location in high density areas and at the intersection of train and bus tracks, as well as those main stations to provide various services supporting the public transport system where they include public parking, ticket outlets, shops and customer service offices, and these stations are considered added value for the public transport project and a factor for improving the urban environment of the city.

the project also includes five transfer stations between different train tracks and integrates with the bus network and aims to facilitate passenger transport between the levels of Riyadh’s public transport network.

The royal Riyadh city authority has organized an architectural competition in which it invited the most prominent offices and architectural companies specialized in the design of major public transport stations to present innovative and advanced architectural and engineering designs for the four main stations of the riyadh train project.