AI challenge inspires innovation
AL MUSANNAH: The University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Al Musannah hosted the final round of the Oman IoT & AI Challenge 2025 at the university's theatre. The challenge aims to inspire innovation and strengthen the technical skills of young people and entrepreneurs in Oman. It also reflects Oman's commitment to encouraging innovation and technology as key pillars of its digital future by creating a competitive environment that promotes research and entrepreneurship.
Dr Nasser al Bimani, Assistant Vice Chancellor of the university, emphasised the importance of IoT and AI in developing young minds and inspiring creativity. He highlighted that the challenge is not only a test of technical skills but also an opportunity to empower participants to transform their ideas into real projects that contribute to sustainable development. He also stressed the university's role in enhancing students' skills by enabling them to develop smart solutions that address current challenges and support digital transformation.
The final round brought together the top projects and startups from the semi-final stage, selected through strict criteria focused on technical excellence and added value.
Participants underwent a thorough evaluation, where projects were filtered based on quality, innovation and practical application. The most outstanding teams advanced to the final, with winners set to represent Oman in the Arab IoT & AI Challenge — giving them a chance to compete regionally and raise the standard of innovation and excellence.
Dr Saeed al Rubaie, Vice Chancellor of the university, inaugurated the accompanying exhibition, which featured five startups and 22 student graduation projects. Participants came from university branches across Al Musannah, Suhar, Salalah, Ibri, Nizwa, Ibra, Muscat, Shinas, Sur, as well as Sohar University and Majan University College. The exhibition served as a platform to encourage students and entrepreneurs to develop tech solutions and foster stronger collaboration between academia and industry, opening new opportunities for collaboration and investment in emerging technologies.
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