Oman wins award at AI ethics forum
A research paper submitted by Ayoub bin Mohammed al Balushi, a lecturer at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, was selected among the best working papers presented at the research session accompanying the forum.
The research paper received an honorary award from the forum's organisers in recognition of its scientific originality and research vision, which contributes to advancing ethical AI practices.
This accolade highlights Oman's active presence in global dialogues on the future of artificial intelligence and underscores the commitment of Omani academic institutions to promoting responsible scientific research in line with international trends. - ONA
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Observer
12 hours ago
- Observer
SMART FARMING TRANSFORMS OMAN
Oman's agricultural sector is undergoing a significant transformation through innovation and technology, in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is spearheading efforts to enhance food security and environmental sustainability by promoting smart farming, biotechnology, artificial intelligence and modern irrigation techniques. Smart resource management systems, vertical farming, precision agriculture and digital tools are being adopted to improve productivity, reduce waste and ensure sustainable food availability. The Ministry supports small-scale innovative projects through technical and financial assistance, while funding initiatives and awareness programmes are provided via the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund and digital platforms. Collaboration with universities, research centres and international organisations such as FAO and AOAD further strengthens these efforts. Emphasis is being placed on integrating technology in agriculture, including IoT-based smart farms, disease prediction and crop improvement. Legislation such as the Intellectual Property Protection Law encourages innovators to register advancements in agricultural technologies, biofertilisers and irrigation systems. Agricultural startups benefit from tax exemptions and customs duty waivers on modern technologies, while renewable energy integration and organic farming are promoted to support sustainable production. Recent research from Sultan Qaboos University highlights the potential of the Harmal plant (Peganum harmala) in combating crop diseases. Supervised by Buthaina bint Harith al Busaidyah and Dhia bint Ibrahim al Rashdiyah, the study found that Harmal extracts inhibit harmful fungi, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. The research team developed a practical solution derived from Harmal that demonstrates high efficacy against pathogenic fungi, offering an environmentally safe option for Omani farmers. Innovative companies are also contributing to sustainable farming solutions. Hawra bint Rashid al Omraniyah from the University of Al Sharqiyah showcased AZDARA, a company producing organic pesticides and fertilisers in biodegradable smart soil packs. These packs nourish the soil as they decompose and include natural products derived from animal shampoo, providing safe pest control while improving animal health. Omar bin Fathil al Daree from UTAS Ibri introduced the Smart Agriculture Cultivator (SAG 1), a sensor-equipped device that analyses soil conditions in real time, measuring moisture, pH, temperature and nutrient levels. The system alerts users to issues such as salinity or nutrient deficiencies and removes impurities like stones, weeds and plastics automatically, improving both efficiency and soil health. The Ministry stressed that investing in agricultural innovation is a strategic necessity to secure a food-safe future amidst global challenges like climate change, resource scarcity and population growth. By encouraging private-sector partnerships, promoting research and supporting startup initiatives, Oman is building a resilient and sustainable agricultural framework. Through projects like smart irrigation, organic farming and biotechnology research, Oman aims to transform its food system, promote environmental stewardship and strengthen the green economy. The combination of innovation, legislation and private-sector collaboration positions the Sultanate of Oman as a regional leader in sustainable agriculture and food security. — ONA
Muscat Daily
a day ago
- Muscat Daily
Digitalisation driving growth of SMEs in Oman
Muscat – Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Oman are undergoing a rapid shift towards digitalisation, with experts stressing that innovation and technology adoption are becoming essential for growth and competitiveness in both local and international markets. Digital tools are enabling SMEs to cut costs, improve efficiency, and expand their reach without heavy investment in traditional infrastructure. From artificial intelligence (AI) to e-commerce platforms, businesses are leveraging new technologies to adapt to fast-changing customer needs and open new avenues for expansion. Saeed bin Jumaa al Salti, a digital transformation consultant, said digitalisation is no longer just about introducing technology but about 'a comprehensive transformation to improve operations, expand markets, and achieve continuous innovation'. He added that technologies such as AI, big data analytics, and cloud services allow SMEs to enter new markets with flexibility and speed, while enhancing decision-making and service delivery. 'SMEs can now expand their business locally and internationally without the need for massive investments in infrastructure,' Salti said. 'This creates opportunities for growth that were previously limited to large enterprises.' Maha bint Mohammed al Habsi Maha bint Mohammed al Habsi, an artificial intelligence trainer, noted that emerging technologies are now essential for SMEs aiming to grow and compete globally. 'AI, cloud computing, blockchain, and the Internet of Things are essential tools for enabling SMEs to achieve sustainable growth,' she said. 'This is no longer a luxury but a necessity in an economy that demands flexibility and efficiency.' Citing a study, Habsi said AI adoption in Oman's industrial sector has already improved productivity, inventory management, and resource allocation. She added that digital platforms are allowing even small Omani startups to export to markets in Europe and Asia. However, challenges remain. Ishaq bin Hilal al Sharyani, a specialist in training entrepreneurs, pointed out that limited funding, a shortage of digital expertise, and resistance to change continue to slow digital adoption. 'Cybersecurity and data protection also remain pressing concerns,' he said. He recommended that SMEs invest in staff training, collaborate with technology providers, and benefit from government programmes designed to support entrepreneurship and innovation. Legal advisor Mazen bin Salem al Zaidi highlighted that recent reforms in commercial dispute resolution have also helped SMEs. Simplified procedures for handling rental, labour, and contracting disputes are easing the legal burden on smaller businesses, he said, while ongoing government support reflects the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 to diversify income sources and strengthen the SME sector's role in the national economy. Experts agreed that digitalisation represents both an opportunity and a necessity for SMEs. By embracing innovation, these enterprises can not only survive but also can thrive in a competitive global economy.
Muscat Daily
a day ago
- Muscat Daily
SAI governance reforms contest offers RO11,500 in prize money
Salalah – Cash prizes worth RO11,500 will be up for grabs at a national hackathon in Salalah aimed at developing digital solutions for better governance and sustainable investment. State Audit Institution (SAI) will hold a three-day competition from September 1 to 3 in cooperation with Dhofar Municipality called 'Govern it Smartly' under the theme 'Effective Governance for Sustainable Investment'. First prize winners will receive RO5,000, while second and third place winners will take home RO3,000 and RO1,500 respectively. Teams in fourth and fifth place will each be awarded RO1,000. The hackathon is designed to promote transparency, strengthen governance practices and ensure more efficient management of investment resources across Oman. According to SAI, holding the hackathon reflects its commitment to ingraining the principles of integrity and accountability in the national workforce, enhancing performance in both public and private sectors, and engaging youth in shaping governance solutions. Ahead of the hackathon, a national symposium on governance will take place in Dhofar at the end of August. It will address the role of governance in safeguarding public funds, enhancing transparency and encouraging innovation in sustainable development. Participants will include government entities, private companies, universities and youth-led teams working in technology, economics and management. Competitors are expected to propose projects that simplify procedures, improve oversight of investment, and generate tangible economic and social benefits. Omani youth and interested teams can register online at
