Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman is set to host the Omani-Saudi Knowledge Dialogue Forum next Sunday, organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation in partnership with the Council of University Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This two-day event aims to enhance cooperation in higher education and scientific research between the two nations.

According to Oman News Agency, Dr. Maryam Bilarab Al Nabhani, Director General of Private Universities and Colleges at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, stated that the forum serves as a strategic platform for knowledge cooperation and expertise exchange. The event is designed to foster partnerships between higher education institutions in Oman and Saudi Arabia, facilitating joint research programs, researcher exchanges, and academic collaboration.

The forum also aims to encourage the establishment of research and development centers, increase joint investments in education, research, and innovation, and strengthen communication channels between intellectual, educational, and research institutions. These initiatives align with the goals of Oman Vision 2040 and Saudi Vision 2030.

Dr. Al Nabhani noted that the forum will gather academics, researchers, and decision-makers from both countries to share insights and explore ways to enhance knowledge partnerships in various national priority areas. The event will include several dialogue sessions addressing challenges and opportunities in developing pioneering universities in the Gulf region. Topics will include the influence of the Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions on education, smart learning, digital campuses, and scientific research and innovation collaboration.

The forum will see participation from nearly 70 Saudi universities, multiple research centers, and all public and private higher education institutions in Oman.