Latest news with #ArabOpenUniversity
Observer
24-05-2025
- General
- Observer
Arab Open University fetes new graduates
MUSCAT: The Arab Open University celebrated the graduation of the thirteenth batch which comprised 430 graduates of diploma, bachelor and master's degrees. The celebration was under the auspices of Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation; and with the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Talal al Saud, Chairman of the University's Board of Trustees, members of the board, several esteemed dignitaries and honoured guests. The ceremony commenced with a short documentary highlighting the university's journey, academic mission and its societal contributions in Oman and across the Arab region. The programme of the ceremony included a speech by the AOU Rector in the Sultanate of Oman; Prof Mohammed bin Hamdan al Badi, during which he affirmed the university's commitment to the vision of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. He noted that this national vision continues to inspire the development of higher education and the promotion of innovation. Following that, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Talal Al Saud delivered a speech, highlighting the university's contributions to Oman's higher education landscape, in collaboration with other academic institutions. He emphasised the university's role in enriching Omani society with graduates in various fields of knowledge, education and training. His Highness reaffirmed the university's commitment to continuing the mission and vision of its late founder, His Royal Highness Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz, may he rest in peace, advocating for the right of all to education and knowledge; and for the university's contribution to the development of Arab societies. Prof Mohammed al Zakri, President of the Arab Open University at the regional level, also addressed the graduates. He extended his congratulations and reaffirmed the university's ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality education in partnership with The Open University in the United Kingdom and in alignment with international quality assurance standards. He encouraged graduates to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired to serve their communities and contribute to national development with dedication and excellence.
Daily Tribune
16-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Labour Ministry Undersecretary opens Arab Open University Career Day exhibition
SK bahrain His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Labour, inaugurated the Career Day exhibition organised by the Arab Open University (AOU). Present were Ali Abdulhussain Al Asfoor, Governor of the Northern Governorate, and Sakeena Naser Ali, Assistant President for Administrative and Financial Affairs. gdfg vxcv The Career Day aims to introduce AOU students to employment opportunities and career paths offered by participating private sector institutions and companies. The exhibition also features student graduation projects and entrepreneurship initiatives, offering a platform for students to showcase their innovations and strengthen their entrepreneurial spirit. During the event, HH Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman toured the pavilions of participating entities and reviewed distinguished student graduation projects. He highlighted the importance of such career exhibitions in guiding students towards optimal career options in the labour market.
Saudi Gazette
16-05-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed honors AOU startup winners advancing AI and sustainability
RIYADH — Arab Open University (AOU) concluded its inaugural Startup Competition 2025 at its Riyadh campus, celebrating a range of innovative student-led projects with awards presented by Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal. The competition highlighted AOU's commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs and supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to foster a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy. The top prize went to Jadwalna, an AI-powered tourism platform that delivers personalized travel experiences across Saudi Arabia while offering service providers intelligent marketing and payment tools. Second place was awarded to Sakina, a mental health platform utilizing culturally aware AI to provide round-the-clock emotional support and wellness resources. Eco Bin—a smart waste-sorting system promoting sustainability through automated material detection and recycling—took both third place and the audience choice award. During the ceremony, Prince Khaled expressed a personal connection to the university, describing his visit as a return to a second home. He recalled the pivotal role played by the late Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz, who announced the AOU initiative in 1996 to establish a non-traditional academic institution focused on scientific, social, and cultural advancement. That vision materialized in 2002, in collaboration with the UK's Open University. Finalist projects showcased a wide range of impactful innovations, including AI-based queue management systems, non-invasive drug detection devices, emergency communication tools for non-verbal users, afforestation mapping platforms, virtual reality communities, assistive technology for the visually impaired, and investor matchmaking apps for emerging entrepreneurs. — SG
Observer
05-05-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Tower Club champions, Ali Talib second in Muscat Academy karate
MUSCAT: Third Muscat Academy Open Karate Championship concluded at the Al Amal Sports Club Hall in Bausher on May 2. The closing ceremony was held under the auspices of Shaikh Salem bin Hamad al Mahrouqi, Chairman of the Oman Karate Committee and Member of the Shura Council representing the Wilayat of Adam. Also in attendance was Mohammed bin Hamdan al Badi, President of the Arab Open University, along with a large audience of attendees, parents and karate enthusiasts. The championship witnessed the participation of over 200 male and female athletes representing 19 clubs, academies and centres from Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Iran. The competitors showcased their skills in a highly spirited environment through kata (imaginary combat) and kumite (free fighting) events, categorised by age groups and weight classes. In General Championship results, Qatar's Tower Club emerged champions as Ali Talib Al Raisi Club of Oman claimed the runners-up trophy. Qatar's Al Fuhoud Sports Academy finished third while Muscat International Karate-do Academy took the fourth spot. The closing ceremony was marked by a festive atmosphere, during which the guest of honour awarded medals to the winners and honoured the participating clubs, as well as the referees and organising committees. A commemorative shield was presented to the guest of honour by the Championship Director, Shihan Ali bin Mohammed al Raisi, who expressed his satisfaction with the technical and organisational level of the event. Shihan Ali al Raisi said the championship was exceptional in terms of competitive intensity and diversity of participants. He said: 'We witnessed passionate matchups and a high technical level that reflects the development of karate in the region. I extend my deep thanks to His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Hamad al Mahrouqi for his generous patronage, to Mr Mohammed al Badi for his support and presence, and to everyone who contributed to the success of this championship – from organisers, referees, coaches, players, to parents. This success is the result of teamwork.' Notable Individual Results:Girls' Kata – Age 10: Gold: Malak Ali al Badwani; Silver: Naiva Tanov; Bronze: Aisha al Hinai, Jude Mohammed Abdullah; Boys' Kata – Age 14: Gold: Mohammed Hassan al Tayyib; Silver: Aaron Rowe; Bronze: Nasser al Mazrouei, Al Ayyam Taj Mohammed al Balushi; Boys' Kumite – Age 12 under 40 kg: Gold: Abdulrahman Hilal al Abdali; Silver: Himank Kaushik; Bronze: Osama Mohammed al Siyabi, Suleiman Al Hilali; Boys' Kata – Age 15: Gold: Mohammed Hossam; Silver: Ghaith al Hashmi; Bronze: Issa Mohammed al Siyabi, Ritesh Sudarman; Boys' Kumite – Age 16–17 over 60 kg: Gold: Alawi Tariq Baomar; Silver: Elias Ali al Jazzar; Bronze: Mohammed al Yahyaei; Women's Kata – U30: Gold: Sarah Ali Babazadeh; Silver: Nandana Shachu; Bronze: Shaimaa Tariq Baomar, Najwa Suleiman al Adawi; Men's Kumite – Under 30: Gold: Ayoub Mohammed Ayoub Nezad; Silver: Saeed al Amri; Bronze: Ahmed Abdullah al Rahbi, Hossam Mohammed Zeiny
Observer
06-04-2025
- Politics
- Observer
Debating championship launched to empower youth
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, in collaboration with the Oman Debate Centre, has launched the 8th edition of the National Debating Championship, a key initiative aimed at enhancing the art of persuasion, critical thinking and constructive dialogue among young people. The championship reflects Oman Vision 2040 goals of youth empowerment and fostering a culture of effective discourse. By equipping participants with public speaking and analytical skills, the programme prepares them to engage meaningfully with national, regional and global issues. Training sessions begin today, starting with the fundamentals of debating. The second session on Tuesday will focus on argumentation and refutation, while the third will cover case analysis and presentation techniques. This year's championship introduces a new format for the qualifying stages, divided across three major stations: April 11 at the Arab Open University (Muscat Governorate), for participants from Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah South, Al Sharqiyah North and Al Sharqiyah South. April 18 at the University of Buraimi (Al Buraimi Governorate), for participants from Al Batinah North, Al Dhahirah, Al Buraimi and Musandam. April 21 at Dhofar University (Dhofar Governorate), for teams from Dhofar and Al Wusta. School-level qualifiers will be held virtually to ensure broader participation. Hilal bin Saif al Siyabi, Director-General of the Directorate-General of Youth at the Ministry, described the event as a cornerstone in shaping eloquent, thoughtful youth, capable of presenting informed viewpoints with clarity and respect. He emphasised the growing level of competition and participation year after year. Nasser bin Humaid al Hinai, CEO of the Oman Debate Centre, echoed these sentiments, stating that the championship aims to cultivate a generation of future leaders through structured debate and intensive training. Following the preliminary rounds, 272 debaters from 68 teams - including clubs and educational institutions - will advance to the finals. The champions will go on to represent the Sultanate of Oman in future international competitions. Registration is open to teams from schools, universities and clubs across Oman, further embedding debate as a vital educational and developmental tool. — ONA
