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Keynote Speaker 1
Prof. Dr. Maan Fahmi Rashid Al-Khatib Abstract In the face of unprecedented multiple challenges related to sustainability (in light of climate change and its tangible effects), rapid technology advancement (spearheaded by AI technology), and social responsibility alongside global workforce skill requirements, engineering education stands at a crucial juncture. These challenges bring about the importance of shifting from a paradigm of graduates who are technical problem solvers to holistic problem solvers. The speaker discusses the need for a holistic approach to produce engineering graduates who are prepared for this complex world. This includes, firstly, sharpening the educators‘ skills, transforming them into mentors who lead by example and guide students in their personal and professional development. Secondly, redesigning the curriculum to be effective and relevant in terms of its content and delivery that enhances both content and delivery, ensuring engineering graduates possess the intellectual, ethical, and spiritual foundations necessary for impactful work. The keynote will also highlight the importance of foundational Islamic values to serve as guiding principles in this educational reform for the benefit of the Ummah and humanity. This proposed reform in engineering education, guided by a holistic and values-driven approach, is essential for preparing the next generation of engineers to meet the complex demands of our time. By fostering a learning environment that integrates technical knowledge with ethical and spiritual principles, we can empower graduates to act as agents of positive change, using their skills to address global challenges and contribute to the well-being of all. Biography Dr. Ma’an Alkhatib is a Professor in Chemical Engineering. He gained his BSc in Chemical Engineering from University of Jordan and pursued his master degree in Universiti KebangsaanMalaysia and obtained his PhD from Universiti Putra Malaysia. He is currently the Co-Chair for IIUM-ICESCO Chair in Sustainable Engineering, in Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). He served as Kulliyyah of Engineering Deputy Dean Academic and Internationalisation (2020-2023) His research interests spans across the areas of separation processes, water and wastewater and nanotechnology. He published more than 130 journal and conference papers, few books and chapters in books. He graduated many PhD and MSc students and has few registered patents. He is actively engaged in promoting active learning and was awarded the Best Teaching Award (Science Stream) in 2015. He served as a founding committee member and continues to contribute to the Minister of Education Malaysia Special Awards: Curriculum Design and Innovative Delivery, where he previously chaired the Alternative Assessment Category Committee and now remains as a member. His research in wastewater treatment sparked a strong passion for environmental sustainability. He founded the IIUM River of Life Group and established Friends of Sg. Pusu (Pusu River) to raise awareness on river pollution, environmental issues, and community empowerment. He was also in the founding group of Friends of Klang River Basin, where he served as Assistant Secretary, and is currently a member of the Steering Committee for the Malaysian Capacity Development Network for Sustainable Water Management (MYCDNET). In addition, he contributed to the Science and Technology Cluster under the IIUM VISION 2077 Project, reflecting his long-term commitment to integrating education, sustainability, and community development. |
