MUSCAT: The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI), in collaboration with Gulf College, hosted the 2024 Scientific Research Symposium at the university campus in Al Maabela. The event was held under the auspices of Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation.
In her address, the minister emphasised the dedicated efforts of private higher education institutions in Oman to elevate the quality and diversity of their programmes, aligning with global advancements and the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
She highlighted the importance of linking academic programmes with scientific research and innovation to produce new knowledge, turning ideas into tangible realities that benefit society and the economy.
She also underscored the multifaceted role of these institutions in serving and advancing society through events, conferences, and collaborative programmes. Their contributions include fostering partnerships with government bodies and civil society organisations, supporting community activities, and offering their facilities for broader use.
The symposium delved into opportunities for advancing scientific research in Oman, featuring sessions led by experts and researchers.
Key discussions included the current status of scientific journals, research citations, and the national infrastructure to support research. The sessions aimed to align with Oman Vision 2040, which envisions a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and excellence.
Among the key objectives of the symposium were: Reviewing efforts to support scientific publishing in the Sultanate of Oman.
Highlighting the Shuaa platform as an open-source repository for scientific production, exploring strategies for establishing peer-reviewed academic journals and evaluating scientific publishing indicators and their impact.
Others included identifying opportunities and challenges in enhancing scientific publishing and discussing the potential need for a dedicated office or centre to support publishing efforts in Oman.
The event also underscored the importance of fostering a culture of research excellence and enhancing the quality of scientific outputs in Oman. By bolstering the presence of Omani research in international journals, the symposium aimed to not only raise global recognition for Omani researchers but also contribute significantly to the nation’s socio-economic progress and the advancement of knowledge.
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