Latest news with #SQU
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
Pact signed to turn oilfield waste into clean energy
MUSCAT, JUNE 3 Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has signed a pioneering research agreement with ARA Petroleum to explore innovative ways of converting produced brine—a waste byproduct from oil and gas operations—into sustainable energy resources such as biohydrogen and biochar. The agreement was signed at the University's Cultural Centre by Professor Amer bin Saif al Hinai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Research at SQU, and Dr Omar bin Salim al Jaaidi, Vice President of ARA Petroleum. The project will be fully funded by ARA Petroleum and supported with its technical expertise, bringing together academic research and industrial know-how to support Oman's sustainability goals. In an interview with the Observer, Dr Saleh al Saadi, Director of the Sustainable Energy Research Centre at SQU, said the collaboration reflects the University's core mission to advance technologies that address real-world challenges. 'This partnership aligns directly with SQU's vision of advancing sustainable technologies by addressing real industrial challenges through research,' Dr Al Saadi said. 'By converting produced water into biohydrogen and biochar, the project supports Oman's Vision 2040 and Net-Zero 2050 goals. It contributes to renewable energy development, water reuse, and environmental protection, while building local research capacity.' Produced brine, typically high in salinity and contaminants, is one of the oil sector's most complex waste streams. Dr Al Saadi's research team aims to overcome technical barriers such as low hydrogen yields and inefficiencies in the conversion process. 'We are tackling major challenges like the high salinity and toxicity of produced water,' he explained. 'Our team is developing an optimised two-stage fermentation system to increase hydrogen output, using biochar to enhance gas quality. In addition, we plan to incorporate AI modelling to improve process efficiency and ensure the project's economic viability. The aim is to transform waste into clean energy and agricultural inputs.' The collaboration is also notable for integrating public, private, and academic stakeholders. It has received strong backing from the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation, with its Ejaad platform playing a vital role in linking academia with industry. 'This collaboration unites academia (SQU), industry (ARA), and government (Ejaad) to address national priorities,' said Dr Al Saadi. 'It shows how joint innovation can drive Oman's transition to a knowledge-based and sustainable economy. It not only enables the development of real-world solutions, but also builds national expertise and accelerates the commercialisation of green technologies.' Dr Omar bin Salim al Jaaidi remarked, 'This collaboration underscores the strength of local expertise and the potential of Oman's young generation. By working with Sultan Qaboos University, we are not only developing sustainable energy solutions, but also empowering the next generation of innovators and researchers to lead efforts to address global environmental challenges.' As the world moves towards more circular and sustainable energy practices, this initiative places Oman at the forefront of research-driven solutions for resource recovery and decarbonisation in the hydrocarbon sector.
Observer
4 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
18-05-2025
- Health
- Observer
Prospects for rehab and empowerment of children
Muscat, May 18 As part of the nation's ongoing efforts to promote children's rights and empower children with disabilities, Children First Association is preparing to launch the second edition of the Oman Childhood Conference and Exhibition, scheduled to take place from October 14 to 16 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme: 'Prospects for Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Children with Disabilities in the Era of Emerging Technologies.' HH Sayyidah Dr Mona bint Fahd al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation at SQU and Chairperson of the Association, affirmed that this year's edition builds on the success of the first edition, which focused on talented children. She noted that the association is opening a new chapter this year to support children with disabilities, exploring ways to empower them through the latest innovations and technologies that offer them greater opportunities for inclusion, independence and achieving their aspirations. She emphasised that the conference serves as a platform that brings together all stakeholders concerned with childhood affairs. The first edition witnessed the participation of more than 50 local and international institutions from various public and private sectors. She highlighted that the event seeks to strengthen institutional and community cooperation to build an inclusive environment that provides equal opportunities for all children to grow and contribute to national development. Khalid al Matroushi, a member of the association, explained that the conference will address the challenges faced by children with disabilities, while also showcasing initiatives and the latest supporting technologies aimed at empowering them. He also mentioned that the conference will include specialised workshops for children, their families, and professionals in education, health and social services, in addition to displaying the latest technological innovations in the field. Running alongside the conference is a comprehensive exhibition, the first of its kind in Oman, bringing together under one roof institutions, companies, and centres specialising in childhood affairs, along with stores, medical and educational centres, and psychological and educational consultancy organisations. The exhibition will also feature theatrical performances and recreational activities for children. The conference and exhibition will witness broad participation from local and international entities, including the Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Sultan Qaboos University, the Oman Human Rights Commission, Unicef, as well as local associations, rehabilitation centres and civil society organisations. Majda al Hinai, a board member of the association, stated that this year's edition focuses particularly on empowering children with disabilities through both the conference and the accompanying exhibition. She noted that the association aims, through this event, to align national policies with global trends to enhance the well-being of this cherished group within the framework of Oman Vision 2040, specifically under the pillar of Human and Society. She added that the conference also seeks to explore and localise emerging technologies that can support and empower children with disabilities, stressing the importance of guiding families and raising community awareness on how to appropriately interact with and support the needs of this group. She further pointed out that the conference will open new horizons for children to showcase their talents and abilities in arts, music, drawing, sports, and culture, aiming to enhance their integration into society and provide them with greater space to express themselves and actively participate in various community activities. The event targets a wide audience, including families, children, school and university students, organisations interested in childhood products and services, tech and environmental companies, banks, online stores and entrepreneurs. Through this event, the Children First Association reaffirms its commitment to continuing its role in building a society more aware of children's rights, and in enhancing children's opportunities to enjoy a better life, driven by its belief that every child possesses the energy to shape a brighter future for Oman.
Times of Oman
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Times of Oman
Oman, China explore academic, scientific cooperation
Muscat: Dr. Fahd Al Jalanda Al Said, Vice Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), today met with Xiao Jie, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China. The meeting aimed to discuss avenues for academic and scientific collaboration between the Sultanate of Oman and the People's Republic of China. The Vice Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University emphasized SQU's pivotal role in educating and preparing future leaders across various fields. He highlighted existing cooperation agreements between SQU and Chinese academic institutions, particularly last year's agreement to teach the Chinese language at SQU's College of Arts and Social Sciences. The Vice Chancellor also noted the scholarships offered for study in the People's Republic of China and student exchange programs between SQU and several Chinese universities. Xiao Jie, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China commended SQU's national achievements and referenced the Sultan Qaboos Chair for Arabic Language Studies at Peking University, established in 2007 as a cultural bridge between the two nations. The Chair supports research on Omani-Chinese relations, Arabic-Chinese translations, the dissemination of distinguished academic content, and student activities that strengthen scientific and cultural cooperation.
Observer
13-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Opportunities matter as much as skills, says educator
Possessing the right skills is essential, so is creating opportunities for young people to explore and secure meaningful career paths, opines Dr Ali bin Saud al Bimani, who, drawing from his vast experience as both an educator and vice-chancellor at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and NU. He voiced a growing concern — the increasing challenge of youth unemployment in Oman. The debate over job market success is far from straightforward. Some argue that a strong academic foundation is the key to securing employment, while others emphasise the importance of specialised skill sets tailored to 21st-century industries. Another perspective champions vocational training as a viable and necessary alternative. This divide is further reflected in the sheer number of applications received for job vacancies. 'For a vacancy of 20, there are often over 1,000 qualified applicants. When only 20 are selected, does it mean the remaining 980 lack skills? Or is this simply a reflection of the limited job opportunities available?' Dr Al Bimani posed a thought-provoking question, highlighting the intricate web of factors that influence employment outcomes — qualifications, experience, industry demands, and, above all, the realities of a highly competitive job market. Each year, the country produces approximately 50,000 high school graduates and around 25,000 university graduates — an impressive testament to the government's strong commitment to education. However, despite this investment, the economy is not expanding at a pace that can absorb such a large influx of skilled individuals. He says, as a result, thousands of graduates find themselves struggling to secure positions in both the public and private sectors, leading to rising concerns over unemployment and underemployment. Dr Al Bimani cautions against the tendency to assign blame, emphasising that the focus should instead be on structural solutions. He underscores the urgent need for Oman to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and foster private sector growth. "Expanding economic opportunities is the most sustainable way to bridge the employment gap and ensure that the nation's talented youth have access to meaningful careers," he said. He stressed the critical role of Industrial Internships, hands-on training in bridging skill gaps, and effective entrepreneurship structure at universities advocating for stronger workforce development programmes that combine academic learning with practical life experience. He pointed out three major areas of untapped potential that could serve as engines of economic growth. First, Oman's 3,165-kilometre coastline — stretching along the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Gulf — offers immense opportunities for the fishing and marine industry. Investing in fish processing and export infrastructure could create new jobs and empower Omani entrepreneurs. Second, the country's plentiful sunshine is a largely untapped resource for solar energy generation and potentially innovative battery storage. Third, Oman's diverse mineral resources make it a unique global phenomenon if utilised wisely. Capitalising on these natural advantages could not only boost economic diversification, but also position Oman as a leader in a sustainable economy less dependent on oil and gas resources supporting 2040 vision.
