Dhofar: The 11th International Conference on Geo-Advances in Geographic Information, known as GeoAdvances 2026, commenced today in Dhofar Governorate. The event, organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the University of Technology Malaysia (UTM) and the University of Dhofar, has attracted researchers and experts from within and beyond Oman for a two-day conference.
According to Oman News Agency, the opening ceremony was held at the University of Dhofar under the patronage of Sheikh Salim Mustahail Al Maashani, an Advisor at the Diwan of Royal Court. Dr. Suleiman Abdullah Al Jamoudi, Director-General of the General Directorate of Vocational and Technical Education at the Ministry of Education and Deputy Chairman of the Organizing Committee, highlighted the conference's wide-ranging scientific contributions. These include 71 scientific presentations, comprising 46 oral papers, 25 research posters, and six keynote lectures delivered by seven distinguished speakers.
The conference has seen participation from 20 governmental, private, and academic institutions, with sessions organized into 12 parallel scientific tracks. Omani contributions to the conference total 40, including 22 scientific papers and 18 research posters. Dr. Al Jamoudi emphasized the significant scientific and institutional value of hosting the conference in Oman, fostering dialogue and expertise exchange among national and international researchers, and enhancing collaboration among academic, research, and professional entities.
The Ministry of Education is committed to integrating scientific and technical advancements in geographic information into the curriculum by expanding geographic information systems and technologies, particularly in social studies, and by developing digital initiatives and projects. Efforts in this domain are also supported by the Modern Geographic Technologies Committee and its initiatives.
Prof. Elias Abdul Rahman of UTM discussed the collaborative efforts with Omani academic institutions in geographic information and geospatial technologies. He highlighted the role of modern technologies in enhancing the integration of scientific knowledge with practical applications.
The conference also marked the launch of the 'Digital Educational Atlas of the Sultanate of Oman,' a platform that integrates geography, history, and spatial technologies to support education through digital data and maps, enhancing students' analytical skills.
The conference activities included a visual presentation on modern geographic technologies in education and an exhibition showcasing projects and devices related to geographic information advancements. The first day's program featured four scientific sessions on topics including spatial technologies in curricula, modern surveying device applications, interactive digital solutions for education, and geographic information systems' role in sustainable tourism aligned with Oman Vision 2040.
GeoAdvances 2026 aims to internationalize knowledge exchange in geographic information, introduce the latest technologies to national institutions, and build research partnerships. It also seeks to integrate geographic technologies into education, promote data-driven decision-making, enhance national specialists' skills, and stimulate investment in geographic technologies. The conference underscores Oman's commitment to advancing geographic knowledge and supporting development through geospatial technologies.
