The Centre for Preparatory Studies at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) inaugurated its IELTS Open Centre in an event graced by Professor Salim al Harthy, SQU's Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Services. The IELTS Open Centre, closely affiliated with the British Council (BC) Oman, strengthens the enduring partnership between BC and SQU.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dr Zahra al Lawati, Director of the Centre for Preparatory Studies, SQU, reflected on the journey of the IELTS Centre, which had initially served as a Closed Centre for approximately 12 years. Establishing the IELTS Open Centre aligns with SQU's core community service mission. Dr Zahra expressed her gratitude towards Prof Salim and the senior SQU administration for their unwavering support, enabling the open centre to fruition. She also extended thanks to the British Council for the long-continued partnership.
Dr Zahra highlighted the accomplishments of the previous IELTS Closed Centre, emphasising its remarkable performance. A recent audit conducted by Cambridge Assessment classified it as a low-risk centre. On June 12, 2023, the centre was bestowed with the prestigious 'Compliance Excellence Award' by the British Council, Oman.
With the IELTS Open Centre now accessible to a broader community beyond SQU, individuals from various walks of life can take both paper-based and computer-based IELTS tests. The escalating demand for IELTS tests in Oman necessitated the establishment of this open centre. The diverse group of IELTS test takers includes students aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies at various higher education institutions within Oman, students preparing for overseas education, students from private colleges and universities who require an IELTS certificate before graduation, job seekers, and non-Omani residents seeking immigration.
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