A meeting was convened at Majan University College to assess the performance of higher educational institutions in the Governorate of Muscat. Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, and Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidy, Governor of Muscat, presided over the meeting.
During the meeting, Dr Rahma emphasized the crucial role played by higher education institutions in nurturing skills, generating new knowledge through scientific research, and translating it into practical value through innovation and entrepreneurship.
She also highlighted the ministry's endeavors to elevate the quality of higher education institutions to international standards by establishing partnerships with renowned universities worldwide. Additionally, she encouraged international students to pursue their studies in Oman through the "Study in Oman" program.
Dr Rahma put forth several proposed initiatives, including the provision of information to the ministry regarding the specific areas of expertise required for developmental projects. She also emphasized the importance of facilitating training opportunities for students in the governorate, particularly those enrolled in the preparation program. Furthermore, she suggested assigning certain projects within the governorate to higher education institutions, particularly those aligned with small and medium enterprises. Dr Rahma also stressed the significance of supporting the "Saraj" endowment institution for educational assistance and fostering collaboration in establishing new academic, technical, professional, and vocational programs at the diploma, bachelor, and postgraduate levels. These programs should be tailored to meet the needs of the governorate and its development plans.
Lara bint Ghassan Obaidat, advisor to the minister for scholarships and qualification equivalence, promoted scientific tourism and conference tourism to introduce the local and international community to these universities, thereby boosting their reputation and the quality of education they provide. This initiative also aimed to attract international students to pursue their studies there, in addition to other collaborative community projects.
Mahmoud bin Khalfan al Hadidi, CEO of Saraj Educational Endowment Institution, shared the institution's objectives in advancing higher education by assisting disadvantaged and talented students, as well as supporting various projects within higher education institutions. He highlighted the institution's recent progress and upcoming endeavors to strengthen the role of the endowment and its impact on development. The presentation included the introduction of the Saraj card and its associated benefits.
The meeting concluded with an interactive session where the minister, Ahmed bin Mohammed al Humaidi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality, and the CEO of Saraj engaged with participants in discussions about opportunities and initiatives that promote education, scientific research, entrepreneurship, and vocational training.
Dr. Rahma engaged with final-year students from private higher education institutions to address key national issues including education, capacity building, health, citizenship, identity, and social welfare. During the meeting, she actively listened to the students' perspectives, concerns, and academic/living obstacles. Dr. Rahma encouraged the students to enhance their skills and competencies by taking advantage of the resources, amenities, and initiatives provided by both their institutions and the ministry. Furthermore, she underscored the significance of lifelong learning and the continuous acquisition of new skills post-graduation.
