The Systems and Project Management Directorate (SPMD) was established in July 2023. It plays a critical role in driving high-impact projects and strategic system initiatives that directly support the University’s vision, mission, and long-term objectives. Our mandate is to ensure the successful delivery of student information systems and related solutions that generate measurable value, foster innovation, and promote sustainable outcomes across the institution.
We work in close collaboration with Information and Communication Technology Services (ICTS), faculties, academic and administrative departments, and external stakeholders to design, implement, and oversee projects that enhance institutional performance. Through robust project governance and stakeholder engagement, we ensure that initiatives are aligned with the University’s strategic priorities by contributing to academic excellence, operational efficiency, and an improved experience for both students and staff.
We are responsible for managing the full System Development Life Cycle (SDLC), from initial business requirements gathering to final implementation, ongoing evaluation and support. Acting as a vital bridge between ICTS and business units, we translate strategic and operational needs into technical solutions that are scalable, user-focused, and future-ready.
In addition to project execution, we provide first and second-line support to business units, ensuring the timely resolution of issues, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement of Student Information Management Systems (SIMS). By combining project management expertise with deep institutional insight, we help the University adapt to a rapidly evolving digital landscape while maintaining a strong focus on service delivery and institutional excellence.
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Message from the Head
Strategic Objective 4.1 under Goal 4 of Vision 130 outlines a clear mandate: the University must enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its non-academic support structures and systems. In alignment with this objective, a key initiative involves the digitisation and digitalisation of 10 to 20 critical support processes. This is part of a broader effort to modernise administrative functions and improve service delivery across the institution. Significant progress has already been made in this regard.
Two flagship digital transformation projects – online registration and the online application processes, were successfully delivered in January/February 2025 and April 2025, respectively. These initiatives mark major milestones in the University's roadmap to automation and have been identified as core enhancement projects for the 2026 academic year. Their primary aim is to strengthen self-service capabilities and streamline key business processes for improved user experience.
A major cornerstone of these efforts is the Academic Administration System Renewal (AASR) project, currently being led collaboratively by the SPMD, Student Academic Services (SAS), and ICTS. These units are working in close partnership to design and implement a modern, integrated system that will support academic administration processes more efficiently. Several initiatives under this project are on track for implementation in 2026 and 2027.
To ensure that academic administrative processes align with faculty needs, faculty-based staff, particularly those involved in academic administration, are actively participating in specialised Focus Groups. These groups have been established to address each of the project's key thematic areas, ensuring that end-user insights and operational realities are embedded in the design and implementation phases.
Finally, to support a smooth transition and long-term sustainability of the new systems and processes, a dedicated training and capacity-building component has been integrated into the SPMD portfolio. This initiative is designed to ensure that staff remain equipped with the skills and knowledge required to navigate and leverage emerging digital tools, thereby fostering a culture of continuous learning and operational excellence.