Omani delegation discusses critical issues at Boston conference
Published: 06:05 PM,May 27,2024 | EDITED : 10:05 PM,May 27,2024
MUSCAT, MAY 27
The Gulf Creatives Conference, held from May 10 to 12 at Harvard University in Boston, USA, saw significant participation from Oman, with distinguished speakers presenting innovative projects and actively engaging with participants from GCC countries and beyond.
The event, organised by The Diwan, a Harvard student organisation, was led by President Saad al Tami and Oman Committee Chair, Ghassan al Sarmi. It was inaugurated by Jassim al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC.
Omani speakers addressed critical topics related to the region's future, including energy, investment opportunities, business innovation, education and youth initiatives. Their contributions facilitated valuable exchanges of ideas and knowledge about Oman’s achievements.
Abdulrahman al Yahyai, CEO of the Oman Energy Association (OPAL), led a session on the future of energy in the Gulf. He emphasised the expansion of renewable energy, particularly solar and wind projects, and clean energy options like pumped storage and nuclear energy.
Al Yahyai discussed the vital role of regulation, policy, infrastructure, financing, and government support in the success of Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) technology, highlighting Oman’s efforts in solar and wind energy development.
Ali Khadra, Commercial Attaché at the Embassy of Oman in the USA, participated in a panel on ‘Investment in the Gulf: Opportunities in Emerging Markets.’ Khadra showcased Oman's favourable investment environment and highlighted sectors like renewable energy, logistics, and tourism. He discussed infrastructure projects such as the Sohar-Abu Dhabi railway and the proposed Oman-Saudi railway, emphasising the need for unified legislation to enhance investment connectivity.
Ali al Barwani, Senior Manager of Strategic Planning at Oman LNG, spoke about the role of business leaders in promoting innovation. He emphasised the importance of fostering a culture that embraces change, integrating innovation into corporate culture, and leveraging emerging technologies to drive sustainable growth.
Marco Parsiegla, CEO of Amouage, presented on the perfume industry in Oman. He highlighted Amouage's use of Omani natural resources like frankincense and rose, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, and the company’s success in global markets.
Dr Maha al Riyami, Assistant Professor at Sultan Qaboos University, and Hilal al Riyami, Head of National Initiatives at the Royal Academy of Management, discussed ‘Transforming Education: Innovations and Collaborations in the GCC.’ They explored the use of technology in education and the importance of executive education in developing leadership skills.
Saif al Manji, Manager of Sustainability, Social Investment, and External Affairs at OQ8, conducted a session on developing leadership skills among youth. He emphasised the importance of providing real opportunities for youth to practice leadership and develop an ethical mindset rooted in Arab and Islamic values.
Oman's participation was highly appreciated, with attendees engaging enthusiastically with the ideas presented. The conference saw a high turnout from various GCC countries, as well as professionals and experts from around the world, contributing to a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences.
The Gulf Creatives Conference, held from May 10 to 12 at Harvard University in Boston, USA, saw significant participation from Oman, with distinguished speakers presenting innovative projects and actively engaging with participants from GCC countries and beyond.
The event, organised by The Diwan, a Harvard student organisation, was led by President Saad al Tami and Oman Committee Chair, Ghassan al Sarmi. It was inaugurated by Jassim al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC.
Omani speakers addressed critical topics related to the region's future, including energy, investment opportunities, business innovation, education and youth initiatives. Their contributions facilitated valuable exchanges of ideas and knowledge about Oman’s achievements.
Abdulrahman al Yahyai, CEO of the Oman Energy Association (OPAL), led a session on the future of energy in the Gulf. He emphasised the expansion of renewable energy, particularly solar and wind projects, and clean energy options like pumped storage and nuclear energy.
Al Yahyai discussed the vital role of regulation, policy, infrastructure, financing, and government support in the success of Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) technology, highlighting Oman’s efforts in solar and wind energy development.
Ali Khadra, Commercial Attaché at the Embassy of Oman in the USA, participated in a panel on ‘Investment in the Gulf: Opportunities in Emerging Markets.’ Khadra showcased Oman's favourable investment environment and highlighted sectors like renewable energy, logistics, and tourism. He discussed infrastructure projects such as the Sohar-Abu Dhabi railway and the proposed Oman-Saudi railway, emphasising the need for unified legislation to enhance investment connectivity.
Ali al Barwani, Senior Manager of Strategic Planning at Oman LNG, spoke about the role of business leaders in promoting innovation. He emphasised the importance of fostering a culture that embraces change, integrating innovation into corporate culture, and leveraging emerging technologies to drive sustainable growth.
Marco Parsiegla, CEO of Amouage, presented on the perfume industry in Oman. He highlighted Amouage's use of Omani natural resources like frankincense and rose, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, and the company’s success in global markets.
Dr Maha al Riyami, Assistant Professor at Sultan Qaboos University, and Hilal al Riyami, Head of National Initiatives at the Royal Academy of Management, discussed ‘Transforming Education: Innovations and Collaborations in the GCC.’ They explored the use of technology in education and the importance of executive education in developing leadership skills.
Saif al Manji, Manager of Sustainability, Social Investment, and External Affairs at OQ8, conducted a session on developing leadership skills among youth. He emphasised the importance of providing real opportunities for youth to practice leadership and develop an ethical mindset rooted in Arab and Islamic values.
Oman's participation was highly appreciated, with attendees engaging enthusiastically with the ideas presented. The conference saw a high turnout from various GCC countries, as well as professionals and experts from around the world, contributing to a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences.