MUSCAT: The inauguration of Oman Innovation Festival 2024 in its first edition, themed 'Knowledge - Partnership - Sustainability', was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, on Monday evening.
The festival, organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation in collaboration with supporting institutions, marks a significant milestone in Oman's journey towards fostering a culture of innovation and progress.
Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, highlighted the significance of this scientific event as a pivotal addition to Oman's innovation ecosystem. She said the event aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders, exchange experiences, and promote research and innovation in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
Dr Rahma emphasised the crucial role of innovation in driving transformative changes in industries and creating new economic sectors. She underscored the importance of investing in innovation to achieve sustainable economic development, citing examples from the history of advanced nations.
Dr Rahma reiterated the government's commitment to fostering innovation and its integration with scientific research, economy, and the knowledge society. She referenced His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's directives on prioritising innovation as a national priority and highlighted the role of educational and research institutions in Oman's scientific advancement.
Aligned with Oman Vision 2040, the National Innovation Strategy aims to propel Oman among the top 20 countries in the Global Innovation Index. Dr Rahma noted the ministry's efforts in raising Oman's ranking in the index through various initiatives and partnerships.
Dr Rahma outlined several supportive programmes aimed at translating research and innovative ideas into startups, including the Upgrade programme, the Benefits programme, and scientific incubators. She also announced plans for the official opening of the Muscat Innovation Complex, a significant initiative bringing together government, private, and academic sectors to promote innovation.
The Oman Innovation Festival, includes many events and activities directed at all stakeholders in the innovation system: Innovation and Knowledge-based Economy Forum: A two-day forum in partnership with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) with over 430 participants.
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