HE emphasized this in his inspirational speech during the recently-concluded graduation of the first batch of graduates from this university. The university, the first private university of higher education in Eastern Province, conferred degrees on engineering, information technology, and business administration and management to its first group of 489 graduates composed of 264 women and 225 men. The PMU rector said graduates of the university will find their rightful place in the Saudi job market upon their graduation. Prince Mohammed Bin Fahd, Emir of the Eastern Province, who patronized the graduation rites held at the sprawling campus of the university, said PMU's vision is to prepare future leaders who will be knowledgeable and technically equipped to support the development goals of the country. Dr. Ansari said the university's integrated system of education continues to attract students, a number of them coming from neighboring countries. PMU opened its door for the academic year 2006-2007 with 1,046 students, (537 female and 509 male). In the following years, the number of enrolled students increased to 1,130 (female) and 1,621 (male) students. The number of students is expected to cross the 2,000 mark this coming school year. The offer of partial and full student scholarship is another attraction of the university. About 40 percent of the students are recipients of these scholarship programs. PMU offers four disciplines in engineering, namely, electrical, mechanical, civil, and interior designs. The College of Information Technology offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Information Technology, Computer Science, and Computer Engineering. The College of Business Administration offers Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, and Management Information System (MIS). The university underscores six core competencies, namely, communication (the ability to communicate effectively in both English and Arabic), technological competence, critical thinking and problem solving, teamwork, and leadership. With a growing number of students, PMU is making significant strides in providing quality education and services to all students enrolled across all disciplines. For example, the university's achievement in bringing information technology to the classroom is probably the most advanced in the country. Students have access to a variety of technological tools, including Internet, emails, and wireless access within computer lounges. Classrooms are also fitted with automated learning aids, while integrated library automation is available to all students. The university MIS enables faculty members and staffs to provide support to students' needs. PMU's IT Department has also established a Technical Support Center to support end-users, mostly students.
