The Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) revealed the recipients of the Royal Grant for strategic research projects for 2024 on Sunday in Muscat.
The announcement was made during the celebration of the 24th anniversary of SQU Day, held under the patronage of Dr. Khamis bin Saif Al Jabri, Chairman of the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit.
Dr. Amer bin Saif Al Hinai, Deputy Vice Chancellor of SQU for postgraduate studies and research, highlighted that the conference held in conjunction with SQU Day is part of the university's commitment to enhancing research and innovation, and supporting economic and digital transformation.
He emphasized that the conference aims to elevate the university's reputation in global scientific communities, reflecting the keen interest of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik in education, scientific research, and innovation.
Dr. Amer bin Saif Al Hinai underlined SQU's dedication to advancing scientific research, emphasizing that it is a valuable investment for sustainable development, aligned with the needs and aspirations of society.
He also emphasized the importance of equipping young individuals with knowledge and skills to create a knowledgeable society capable of competing in global markets.
During the conference, participants from both inside and outside of Oman, including speakers and scholars, shared their knowledge and experiences. The discussions focused on the significance of scientific research and innovation in the global economic competitiveness of the twenty-first century.
The speakers emphasized the importance of supporting social and economic development in various fields. They also recommended finding practical solutions to the challenges associated with the economic and digital transformation of Omani society and other societies worldwide.
As part of the ceremony, an exhibition was organized to showcase the outcomes of scientific research conducted by university researchers. The exhibition featured a scientific library with books, journals, and various sources of funding. Additionally, there was a research projects corner that presented nine different research projects, as well as an innovation and technology corner.
The three-day conference consisted of several sessions, including topics such as "Supporting Oman Vision 2040," "Analysis of economic growth through scientific research and innovation," and "Dynamics of technological development and digital transformation."
Among the winning projects, Dr. Rashid bin Abdullah Al Yahyaei from the College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences was recognized for his research on enhancing the value addition and production of olives in the Sultanate of Oman. Another notable research project awarded was focused on the management of Parthenium in Oman, conducted by Dr. Mohammed Farouq from the College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences.
Furthermore, Dr. Rengaraj Selvaraj from the College of Science was granted a research project in Oman that focuses on reducing carbon dioxide levels by converting it into beneficial products using sustainable solar energy.
In addition to this, other research projects that received funding included a study on enhancing the value and production of olives in Oman by Dr. Rashid bin Abdullah Al Yahyaei from the College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences. Another project, led by Dr. Mohammed Farouq from the College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, aimed to manage the spread of Parthenium in the Sultanate of Oman.
Moreover, the grant also supported various other research endeavors. Dr. Saleh Al Saadi from the College of Engineering conducted a technical evaluation of low-energy air conditioning systems. Dr. Zainab Yawri, also from the College of Engineering, focused on classifying and assessing the risks of micro-plastics at wastewater treatment plants. Additionally, Dr. Mohammed Abdulqayoum from the College of Engineering conducted research on the efficiency of air conditioning in buildings in Oman.
Lastly, Dr. Mohammed bin Zaher Al Abri from the Nanotechnology Research Centre was awarded a research project that aims to design effective systems for converting carbon dioxide into poly-carbons or organic carbon.
