Dhofar University is all set to kick off the activities of the Third Gulf Conference, with the theme ‘Digital Transformation and Contemporary Social Issues: Challenges and Visions for the Future,’ scheduled to take place on September 24-25 this year.
This event is integral to the annual regional conferences organised by the College of Arts and Applied Sciences, specifically by the Social Sciences Department. The conference encompasses various topics for discussion and scientific research, focusing on contemporary issues within science and social work.
Dr Khaled al Mushaykhi, Dean of the College of Arts and Applied Sciences and the President of the Conference, emphasised that the primary goal of the conference is to underscore the pivotal role of digital transformation in contemporary social issues. “It seeks to examine the dimensions of social challenges arising from this transformation and its profound impact on society. The conference also aims to delve into the nature of cultural and technological shifts within our increasingly digital society. Furthermore, it will explore the human dimensions of technological advancements and the transition into the digital realm, as well as assess the role of digital transformation in delivering social services and contributing to achieving sustainable development goals.”
Dr Al Mushaykhi said, "The significance of the conference lies in its call to showcase successful experiences in digital transformation and community development, whether at the local, Arab, or international levels. It also serves as a platform for fostering scientific collaboration between researchers in Oman and the global academic community, aiming to advance research in this field and analyse scientific developments during the digital transformation era."
Moreover, he highlighted that the conference functions as a platform for extensive social dialogue and the formulation of coherent policies tailored to the unique needs of each nation in the context of future digital transformation. It reinforces Dhofar University's commitment to establishing partnerships with various community institutions, thereby contributing to societal development in alignment with the university's overarching strategies and the Oman Vision 2040.
Consequently, the university actively encourages the participation of faculty members, academic leaders from universities and colleges, government and private sector officials, individuals from civil society organisations, experts in social work, vocational training institutions, researchers, stakeholders, and graduate students.
Dr Reem Abu Eyada, a member of the conference's preparatory committee, elucidated the conference's four main discussion axes.
The first is ‘Contemporary social issues and human dimensions of technological developments’. This axis explores the societal impact of digital transformation, including virtual reality applications, issues related to the family sector, challenges faced by people with disabilities in the digital age, and concerns such as extortion, cybercrime, and electronic game addiction. Additionally, it delves into protecting personal data, using social media networks, and their effects on social bonds.
The second is ‘Priorities of sustainable development and infrastructure in the digital age’. The second axis focuses on the priorities of sustainable development, infrastructure development, and cooperation between government systems in the era of digital technological advancements. It also discusses expertise and experiences related to the use of digital transformation in providing social services.
‘Private sector engagement and technology in community initiatives’ constitutes the third axis that centres on private sector involvement in enhancing digital infrastructure and technology for community projects and initiatives. It explores strategies the private sector employs to benefit society through digital technology, highlighting successful local, regional, and international experiences in digital transformation and community development.
The fourth axis, ‘Reality and future of scientific research skills, ’ addresses the current and future landscape of scientific research skills. It examines interdisciplinary approaches, the intersection of different sciences, education and training platforms, the adaptability of scientific research in the face of change, and information literacy among researchers. This axis also explores strategies for empowerment in the age of digitisation and change.
The third Gulf Conference at Dhofar University serves as a dynamic platform for researchers, professionals, and experts to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts to navigate the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in our ever-evolving society.
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