10-03-2025
KO bridges industry-academia gap to empower workforce
Knowledge Oman (KO) is set to bridge the gap between academia and industry by formalising agreements with leading companies. This initiative will bring industry experts into academic institutions, equipping faculty members and students with practical skills that align with real-world industry demands.
'Creating a strong bridge between academia and industry is not just an opportunity - it is a necessity. To truly empower students and faculty, we must bring real-world expertise into the classroom, ensuring that education translates into impactful careers. This is a key mission for Knowledge Oman this year, and with the support of industries, we are committed to making this a reality,' said Knowledge Oman Founder, Tariq al Barwani.
Since its launch last year, the Knowledge Oman Academy has received approximately 300 registrations from individual community speakers. These experts cover diverse topics, including Technical Skills, Business Entrepreneurship, Leadership and Management, Marketing and Sales, Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility, Health and Wellness, Finance and Wealth Management, Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence.
Since its inception in 2008, Knowledge Oman has hosted hundreds of events, including seminars, workshops and community engagement programmes across Oman.
'Our initial goal was to capture individual community interest by enabling them to contribute as experts for academia. Now, we are expanding our reach by collaborating with organisations from various industries to enrich academic learning with the latest industry developments,' added Tariq al Barwani.
Through upcoming industry partnerships, Knowledge Oman will facilitate guest lectures, mentorship programmes and collaborative learning opportunities that embed industry practices into academic settings. These efforts aim to create a seamless transition from education to employment, fostering a workforce that meets the needs of Oman's growing economy.
This initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises education and employment as key pillars for the nation's sustainable development. By investing in learning and development programmes, Oman aims to cultivate a highly skilled workforce that drives economic growth and innovation, contributing to the realisation of its national vision.
With this new mission, Knowledge Oman is furthering its legacy of inspiring individuals and fostering a culture of continuous learning, ensuring academia remains at the forefront of industry advancements.
