University of Nizwa celebrates scientific research day

NIZWA: The University of Nizwa hosted its annual Scientific Research Day for the academic year 2023/2024, under the auspices of Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. The event, held at Al Hazm Hall on Wednesday, showcased the university's remarkable achievements in research and innovation. Attended by university leaders, faculty and students, the event highlighted 100 research posters, unveiling significant projects funded by various programmes, including institutional and strategic research grants. The university also showcased nine patents and industry-ready projects, emphasising its commitment to advancing applied sciences. In his speech, Prof Ahmed al Harrasi, Vice-Chancellor of Nizwa University for Postgraduate Studies, Scientific Research and External Relations, emphasised the university's focus on addressing national priorities such as food, pharmaceutical and cybersecurity. He highlighted milestones, including over 3,500 peer-reviewed publications, 26 patents, and 326 published books and chapters. The university has invested more than RO 70 million in research, reflecting its dedication to fostering innovation and academic excellence. The day featured several notable launches, including the inaugural issue of the Al Khalil Journal for Arts and Design Studies and the official website of the Maeen Endowment Foundation, which supports students academically and financially. Additionally, research agreements were signed with external entities, including the Industrial Innovation Academy and the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund, further reinforcing the university’s collaborative efforts in research and development. The event concluded with an awards ceremony honouring winners of the Best Research Poster competition and distinguished researchers across various fields. Dr Rahma al Mahrouqi toured the research poster exhibition, expressing her admiration for the diverse projects and commending the university's ongoing contributions to the nation’s research landscape. The Scientific Research Day reaffirmed the University of Nizwa's role as a hub for innovation and academic achievement, advancing the Sultanate of Oman's research agenda in alignment with the Oman Vision 2040 initiative.