Muscat Dialogue concludes with call for scientific transparency
Muscat – The Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue concluded with the adoption of the 'Muscat Declaration', which calls on scientists and scientific organisations to take a more active role in society to increase trust in scientific knowledge and institutions. The declaration stresses the importance of transparency, neutrality, independence, and honesty in scientific work.
The third and final day of the dialogue, organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation in collaboration with the International Science Council (ISC), featured a series of key discussions and parallel workshops. Among the highlights was a main session that explored the relationship between emerging technologies and the evolution of the sciences.
Three parallel sessions followed, covering topics such as 'The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Science Systems,' 'The International Science Agreement for Sustainable Development,' and 'The Future of Gender Equality in Science.' These sessions provided valuable insights into the current challenges and future opportunities in these critical areas.
The evening session included further discussions on 'Science Education for Our Future,' addressing the need for equipping future scientists with the skills to tackle global challenges. It also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research in polar sciences and examined issues of social cohesion and inequality.
A final discussion session reflected on science as a global endeavour, emphasising its role in bridging divides and fostering collaboration to address shared challenges.
On the sidelines of the dialogue, Her Excellency Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, met with several international delegates, including Professor Muhammad Izman Sharifuddin from Malaysia and Professor Rémi Quirion from Canada, to explore potential collaborations in higher education, research, and innovation.
The 'Muscat Declaration' concluded by calling for global action to ensure science remains a universal force for good. It advocates for open science, international cooperation, and the fair evolution of scientific systems in the face of emerging technologies and global inequalities. The declaration also underscores the importance of improving the representation of women and underrepresented groups in scientific governance and initiatives, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable scientific community.
In its closing remarks, the dialogue affirmed that science, as a universal endeavour, has the power to bridge divides, foster trust, and catalyse collective action on global challenges, paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.
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