
Sohar University VC presents paper at Beirut conference
SUHAR: Dr Hamdan al Fazari, Vice-Chancellor of Sohar University, participated in the 22nd International Conference of the Arab Academy of Sciences, held in Beirut, Lebanon, on April 11–12. He presented a research paper titled 'Artificial Intelligence and its Potential to Transform Higher Education in the Arab States.' The conference centred on the theme 'Higher Education in the Arab World: Artificial Intelligence.'
In his presentation, Dr Al Fazari underscored the significance of the theme, emphasising the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping the higher education landscape across the Arab world. He noted that AI holds immense promise for personalised learning, improved student outcomes, enhanced teaching practices and a strengthened research ecosystem.
Dr Al Fazari's paper explored how AI-powered tools and platforms can revolutionise teaching and learning processes, enabling adaptive learning environments, personalised feedback and support for educators in adopting innovative teaching methodologies. He examined the current integration of AI in higher education (HE), assessing the opportunities, ethical implications, labour market alignment and the overall readiness of Arab states to embrace this digital shift.
He pointed out that some Arab nations have already begun integrating AI into both academic programmes and administrative functions. This move reflects a growing recognition of the role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in equipping students with the skills required for the evolving job market.
Concluding his paper, Dr Al Fazari stressed the importance of aligning academic offerings with technological advancements. He stated that by embracing AI technologies and best practices, Arab universities can position themselves as pioneers in the AI era, delivering world-class education and preparing students for the demands and opportunities of the future.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Observer
3 days ago
- Observer
Workshop looks at advancing coastal water sustainability
SUHAR: As part of its commitment to advancing scientific research and environmental sustainability, Sohar University hosted a high-level workshop on Monday entitled: 'Assessing the Impact of the Decision Support System for Coastal Waters (DISCO) on Stakeholders'. The event was organised in collaboration with the Directorate-General of Fisheries Research at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, and comes as part of the ongoing activities under the DISCO research project, which is strategically funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation and receives a funding support from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The workshop commenced with a keynote address by Prof Kelvin Bwalya, Director of Research Development at Sohar University. He began by warmly welcoming the delegates on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Dr Hamdan al Fazari, quoting, "I extend a warm welcome to all the delegates to this prestigious event. Sohar University is always happy to host internationally recognised events to reaffirm our commitment to meaningful research that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Oman Vision 2040." Prof Bwalya further expressed pride in the university's collaboration on a Nasa-funded research project alongside esteemed partners from the USA and Oman's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. Dr Dawood al Yahyai, Director-General of Fisheries Research, delivered another keynote address. He emphasised the critical role of the DISCO system in advancing sustainable marine resource management and enabling data-driven environmental decision-making through cutting-edge monitoring technologies. Led by Prof Dale Kiefer, Principal Investigator from the University of Southern California, the research team presented the developmental journey of the DISCO system and its technical capabilities in monitoring oceanographic and environmental conditions of coastal waters. Presentations were also delivered by Suad al Bimani from the Marine Science and Fisheries Centre, highlighting the key challenges facing Oman's coastal ecosystems. Dr Scott Burg and Prof Rakesh Belwal from Sohar University presented the methodology used for stakeholder impact assessment, which is part of the new evaluation phase of the project supported by Nasa. The scientific programme featured six main sessions, including live demonstrations, scientific presentations and interactive discussions. The participants were divided into two parallel focus groups to evaluate user needs, provide feedback on the system's capabilities, and explore ways to enhance its adoption and impact across relevant sectors. The event brought together experts and representatives from major national institutions, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, Royal Navy of Oman, OQ, Majis Industrial Services, Sultan Qaboos University, the National University of Science and Technology, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences and Sohar University.


Observer
24-05-2025
- Observer
Moon sighting for Dhul Hijjah on Tuesday
Majid al Nadabi Muscat, May 24 The Sultanate of Oman will be sighting the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH on Tuesday. The main committee will hold a meeting to oversee the moon sighting at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs. Yousef bin Hamad al Rahbi, Director of the Astronomical Affairs Department at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, said that astronomical calculations rely on precise criteria and play a significant role in determining the possibility of sighting. One of the most prominent of these criteria is the time between sunset and moonset which should be 20 minutes at least when using binoculars and no less than 29 minutes for sighting with the naked eye. He emphasised that astronomical calculations are not definitive unless confirmed by eyewitness accounts of the moon sighting. However, if the calculations indicate the impossibility of sighting, the final decision is based on calculations without the need for observational testimony. Regarding the astronomical calculations for the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH, Al Rahbi explained that on Tuesday, Dhul Qa'ada 29, 1446 AH, corresponding to May 27, the moon will be in the central conjunction phase at 7:02 am Muscat time. Sunset will occur at 6:47 pm while the moon will set at 7:24 pm allowing a 36 minutes window for sighting which is a suitable duration for observation. Al Rahbi said that sighting the crescent moon using binoculars is possible while sighting with the naked eye is somewhat difficult, however not impossible, especially if the skies are clear. The crescent moon is expected to be visible all across the Sultanate of Oman provided that there are no clouds or dust covering the skies. Therefore, the beginning of Dhul Hijjah is expected on Wednesday in the Sultanate of Oman and most Arab countries.


Observer
22-05-2025
- Observer
‘Muharrik' platform to drive digital education
MUSCAT: The 'Muharrik' platform represents an entrepreneurial initiative that leverages augmented reality (AR) technologies for digital learning, offering innovative educational solutions based on interactive 3D models that have significantly improved students' academic performance. Ziyad bin Salim al Hinai said that the idea for the platform emerged during his studies in the United States, where he faced several academic and personal challenges. However, these challenges helped refine his entrepreneurial skills and avoid future mistakes. He noted that the platform originated from a personal desire to enhance digital learning tools and provide an engaging educational environment. He added that this challenge motivated him to seek innovative educational solutions, ultimately leading to the adoption of augmented reality technology. AR enables the transformation of abstract information into interactive 3D models, simplifying comprehension and stimulating learning. Al Hinai explained that AR technology allows complex concepts to be presented in a visual, three-dimensional format, accelerating understanding and retention. The platform has expanded its use of AR into other fields, such as museums, engineering and healthcare, collaborating with international companies to train medical personnel. He pointed out that the platform's trials have demonstrated a tangible impact on improving education. An experiment involving early-grade students using fourth-grade tailored content showed a 54-per cent improvement in academic achievement, confirming the technology's effectiveness in simplifying scientific concepts and making them more engaging. Al Hinai emphasised that the support provided by Oman Technology Fund was pivotal, not only financially but also through training workshops and knowledge mentoring, which enhanced the team's entrepreneurial capabilities and helped turn the idea into a viable and sustainable project. He added that 'Muharrik' is currently finalising a direct partnership with the Ministry of Education to promote the use of AR technology in schools. The platform also aims to expand into Arab and global markets by exporting digital educational content rather than importing it. Notably, the platform has received international awards and recognition from the Unicef and the Generation Unlimited initiative, marking a turning point in the company's trajectory and boosting the team's confidence to grow further. This recognition also helped attract its first investor, the Oman Technology Fund. - ONA