Latest news with #FahdbinAlJulandaalSaid
Observer
3 days ago
- Business
- Observer
SQU expands partnerships with Russian prestigious varsities
MOSCOW: A delegation from Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), headed by HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU, concluded a strategic academic visit to the Russian Federation. The visit, which lasted several days, aimed to enhance international cooperation; and expand academic and scientific partnerships. During the visit, the SQU signed cooperation programmes with the Higher School of Economics (HSE) and the Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech); and fostered existing agreements with Moscow State University and Kazan Federal University. Cooperation opportunities in the fields of medicine, biotechnology, agriculture, engineering, innovation and entrepreneurship were explored, as well. Student exchange programmes, joint research training and partnerships in technology development and entrepreneurship were also discussed. SQU expands partnerships with Russian prestigious varsities The SQU's delegation also met with the heads of universities and research centres in Kazan and Moscow, including Kazan Federal University, Kazan State Agrarian University, Sechenov Moscow Medical University, Lomonosov Moscow State University, the Higher School of Economics (HSE), Skoltech Institute of Science and Technology, Skolkovo Innovation Center, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology; and the Russian Academy of Sciences. HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU, indicated that the visit sought to enhance academic cooperation, learn about best international practices and create effective partnerships in various scientific fields. The visit comes as part of SQU's commitment to strengthening its international presence and establishing effective strategic partnerships thereby maintaining its pioneering role in building international partnerships and enhancing its position as an academic institution striving for excellence and innovation at the global level. — ONA
Observer
12-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
SQU concludes its annual celebration of University Day 2025
MUSCAT: The Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) recently concluded its annual celebration of University Day 2025, under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU. The celebrations honoured a number of members in recognition of their efforts during the 2024/2025 academic year and to motivate them towards a future filled with giving and achievement. The ceremony included a number of distinguished students, including the head of the Student Tourism Group, which is affiliated with the Department of Tourism at Sultan Qaboos University. The group's role is to spread tourism awareness to the largest possible audience inside and outside the university, and to promote the group's name and influence within the community through organising and participating in a number of events and seminars related to tourism in the Sultanate of Oman. During the event, HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU, honoured Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of the Student Tourism Group, in recognition of his efforts in organising numerous events and workshops both inside and outside the university. Al Rawas, speaking at the event, said, "I feel proud and honoured to be among those who excelled in academic activities this year, especially since this honour bears the name of Sultan Qaboos University. It also marks the end of my university career as a badge of honour for me and the group, which will certainly have a significant impact on my personal and professional life." It is worth noting that the group participated in six different events during the Khareef Dhofar 2024/2025, including the Omani Press Conference, which was themed "Investment - Economy - Media," in addition to the Marhaba Dhofar event, where the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism organised joint sessions between tourism sector companies in the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Observer
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
A WINDOW TO THE WORLD OF LETTERS
MUSCAT, APRIL 25 The 10-day-long Muscat International Book Fair (MIBF) commenced on Thursday at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University and with the esteemed presence of Shaikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah; and Dr Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information and Chairman of the Fair's Main Committee. The event serves as a central hub for literati, academia and reading enthusiasts from Oman and beyond. This year's edition, themed 'Cultural Diversity Enriches Civilisations,' emphasises cultural exchange and openness through its diverse events and international guests. The Fair offers an expansive window into the world of literature, where authors and readers alike engage in enriching discussions about writing and its impact on contemporary reading culture. One of the highlights is the vibrant showcase of Al Sharqiyah North Governorate, this year's 'Guest of Honour'. The exhibition brings to life the region's rich history, local culture and contributions to Omani society, alongside its tourist attractions and modern developments, fostering pride among local generations. Strong Palestinian presence The Fair also welcomes a significant representation from Palestine, with publishers such as Dar Tabaq, Sameer and Mansoor Books; and Dar Al Jundi bringing forward narratives of historical and ongoing struggles. These publishers offer readers a chance to engage with the poignant stories of Palestinian suffering and resilience. A representative from Dar Al Jundi shared, 'We make it a point to attend the book fair every year and the number of titles we bring continues to grow. We are grateful that there are people who listen to us.' Expansive range With 681,041 listed publications, including 467,413 Arabic books and 213,610 foreign titles, the MIBF provides a wide selection for readers of all backgrounds. Notably, 27,464 Omani titles and 52,205 newly-printed books (2024-2025) are available for exploration. Contrary to concerns over a decline in youth reading habits, the high number of new publications reflects a continued vibrancy in the literary world. Exciting events, activities With 155 planned events, the fair features interactive shows, youth initiatives and puppet performances. A special space has been set up for children, offering a theatre for performances and workshops, as well as an Arabic language corner and cultural activities for families. Additionally, several cultural cafés are available across the pavilions, further enhancing the experience. The MIBF is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm and will run until May 3. Special morning hours from 10 am to 2 pm are dedicated to school groups on weekdays, providing a safe and educational environment to cultivate reading habits among young learners.
Observer
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Muscat International Book Fair opens with wide participation
MUSCAT, APRIL 24 The 29th edition of Muscat International Book Fair kicked off on Thursday at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University. The opening ceremony was attended by Shaikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, Dr Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information and Chairman of the Main Committee of Muscat International Book Fair. The chief guest toured the exhibition pavilions, which feature a wide array of cultural, intellectual and scientific titles. The total number of listed publications reached 681,041, including 467,413 Arabic books and 213,610 foreign titles. The Omani collection comprises 27,464 books, while newly-printed publications (2024-2025) account for 52,205 titles. Notably, 52,205 of the displayed books were published between 2024 and 2025. A dedicated space has been created for children and family activities, including a theatre for performances and workshops, a corner for the Arabic language and a children's cultural corner. A total of 155 events are planned, featuring interactive and entertainment shows, youth initiatives and puppet performances. Additionally, cultural cafés have been set up in several participating pavilions. Al Sharqiyah North Governorate is this year's 'Guest of Honour', with a special pavilion showcasing the governorate's local culture, history, notable figures, scientific and humanitarian contributions, tourist attractions and modern lifestyle across its various wilayats. Ahmed al Rawahi, Director of the Muscat International Book Fair, expressed pride in the visit of Shaikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed al Qasimi, who signed his new publication 'The Portuguese in the Sea of Oman: Events in Annals from 1497 to 1757' at the Sharjah Book Authority's pavilion. Al Rawahi noted that this year's edition celebrates a number of intellectuals and creatives from both Oman and abroad, welcoming all guests attending the cultural programme and exploring Omani culture, people and national identity. He added that the cultural programme of Al Sharqiyah North will highlight the governorate's cultural, historical and developmental heritage. The fair also celebrates Saudi Cultural Days, featuring a series of events led by prominent Saudi intellectuals with participation from Omani writers. The current edition is held under the theme: 'Cultural Diversity Enriches Civilisations', emphasising openness and cultural exchange through its events and hosted figures. Ibrahim Saad Bishan, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Sultanate of Oman, said that the Kingdom is participating in this year's exhibition with 38 publishing houses as part of the Saudi Cultural Days. Several cultural events will also be held to celebrate Omani-Saudi relations, reflecting initiatives by the Omani-Saudi Coordination Council to strengthen cultural cooperation. Speaking on the occasion, Mahmood bin Yahya al Thuhli, Governor of Al Sharqiyah North, emphasised that the governorate's participation as guest of honour marks a significant cultural milestone, showcasing its literary, tourism, economic and heritage treasures. The pavilion features an AI-powered platform to promote the governorate and a children's corner dedicated to the Omani identity. The governorate is organising 15 diverse events, including seminars and lectures on literature, sports, education and tourism. The pavilion also aims to promote the governorate's unique tourist sites from golden sands and resorts to natural water springs and historic landmarks across its wilayats — inviting visitors to discover these treasures firsthand. The book fair runs till May 3, and is open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, allowing visitors of all ages to explore exhibits and events at convenient times. The organising committee has allocated special morning hours for school students - from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on weekdays - to provide a safe and educational environment that nurtures young people's love for reading and learning from an early age.
Observer
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
10-day long Muscat book fair begins today
Muscat: HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University, inaugurated on Thursday the Muscat International Book Fair 2025, in the presence of S ultan bin Muhammad al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, and Dr Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information, at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. This year the book fair is held under the theme 'Cultural Diversity and the Richness of Civilisations'. The fair, which is scheduled from today until May 3, promises a vibrant lineup of cultural activities and intellectual discourses. The Al Sharqiyah North Governorate is the 'Guest of Honour' of this edition, showcasing its cultural heritage, historical achievements and key figures through a dedicated pavilion. The event will offer a wide array of programmes tailored for children, youth and families. This year the book fair is also celebrating Saudi Cultural Days, which reflects the deep-rooted relationship between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Around 500 temporary employment opportunities will be created as part of the fair, supporting Omani job-seekers and promoting national talent. The key features of this year's fair include: Children's Pavilion: A rich programme including theatrical shows, workshops, Arabic language activities and nine international participants alongside 95 Omani contributors. Cultural Cafés: Spread across participating pavilions for informal discussions and literary engagement. Over 674 publishing houses from 35 countries — 640 direct participants and 34 indirect — featuring more than 681,000 titles are participating in the book fair.
