Muscat:The joint committee between Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) convened its second meeting in the University Council Hall. The meeting was attended by HH Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said, SQU Vice-Chancellor, and Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, OPAZ Chairman.
According to Oman News Agency, the committee discussed the progress on recommendations from their first meeting and introduced new topics related to joint initiatives and projects. These initiatives aim to enhance integration between education, training, scientific research, and the economic zones sector, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
The meeting began with a presentation by Professor Dr. Salim bin Hamoud Al Harthy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Service, on the student training program at the Special Economic Zone at Duqm. The program's results in providing practical experience to students were highlighted.
The committee also reviewed training and qualification proposals, such as expanding student training programs to include sites of the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn) and improving direct communication with OPAZ-affiliated companies. This aims to address challenges these companies face and to align student skills with labor market demands.
In the area of studies and research, a proposal from the SQU Oman Studies Centre was reviewed. It focuses on studying the relationship between special zones, free zones, and local communities in Oman by documenting intangible cultural heritage and observing social and cultural changes. This effort seeks to balance economic development with preserving cultural identity.
Both sides concluded the meeting by reaffirming the importance of continuing joint efforts and activating proposed initiatives to support economic, research, and community development in Oman.
