Muscat: In collaboration with Gulf College and under the auspices of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, a symposium was convened in Muscat today to review the efforts being undertaken to bolster the publication of scientific research within the Sultanate of Oman.
The primary objective of the symposium was to identify a platform, codenamed “Shuaa” or Beam, serving as an open-source repository for scientific publications. This platform would facilitate the establishment of a professional scientific journal, provide indicators for scientific publishing, and address the opportunities and challenges associated with the promotion of scientific research in Oman.
The symposium was hosted by Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, who delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of supporting academic research in Oman. She highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it addressed critical issues influencing the future of research within the country.
Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi stressed the need for guidance for researchers to navigate the complex landscape of academic journals and citations, and to overcome the existing challenges. She also underscored the importance of developing local peer-reviewed scientific journals within a framework that specializes in Omani research, thereby enhancing academic dialogue and contributing to the elevation of Omani research's status. Such initiatives, she believed, would have a tangible positive impact on society and the economy.
The symposium featured eight sessions aimed at achieving the following objectives:
- Outlining the Ministry’s support program for scientific publishing;
- Understanding the quality of scientific journals;
- Achieving higher rankings in research endeavors;
- Establishing a streamlined research repository;
- Highlighting research aimed at realizing economic value;
- Publishing peer-reviewed scientific journals based in academic institutions;
- Utilizing QS classification and the Global Innovation Index; and
- Analyzing feedback on research conducted at universities, focusing on the challenges and opportunities.
