Sohar: The first Foundation Programme Conference on Empowering University Students in the twenty-first century began today at Sohar University in North Al Batinah Governorate.
The event brings together presenters and experts from 13 nations, as well as higher education institutions in the Sultanate of Oman.
Dr. Hamdan Sulaiman Al Fazari, Sohar University's Vice Chancellor, stated that the conference fits global efforts to empower university students in foundation programmes, addressing developments in higher education and modern disciplines in accordance with labor market requirements and student aspirations.
He stated that higher education institutions play an important role in empowering students and encouraging their transformation in the twenty-first century by investing in human capital, providing programs, policies, and platforms that not only prepare students for employment but also cultivate them as future creative and innovative leaders. These initiatives offer programs and specializations that address workforce demands, correspond with technical breakthroughs, and keep up with artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
The conference will feature 13 parallel sessions with 56 scientific papers and working papers that delve into important themes like as artificial intelligence in language teaching and learning, assessment and feedback, increasing student involvement in learning settings, student autonomy and 21st-century skills, digital integration, critical thinking, academic integrity, and educational innovation.
Additional topics include AI literacy and educational innovation, AI-assisted language skill development, assessment and feedback strategies, learner autonomy and self-evaluation, innovative language teaching approaches, AI and critical thinking integration, digital technology and academic integrity, and 21st-century skills and digital competencies.
The conference will bring together 80 speakers from Omani universities and educational institutions, as well as academics and specialists from 11 nations, including France, Spain, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the People's Republic of China, Iran, Nigeria, and Algeria.
