The Research and Innovation Authority (RIA) in Oman has launched the second edition of the ‘Programme of Cooperation with Sultan Qaboos Scientific Chairs,’ aiming to strengthen national research efforts and foster international collaboration. The announcement was made on Monday in Muscat.

The programme is designed to promote global research partnerships, facilitate the acquisition of international expertise by Omani researchers and innovators, and support the production of high-quality research that addresses practical challenges. Additionally, it seeks to solidify Oman’s role within the global scientific research and innovation landscape.

Dr. Atika bint Yahya al Husseini, a member of the RIA’s Programmes Department, highlighted the strong engagement in the programme’s inaugural edition, which brought together numerous researchers and institutions. For the current edition, she reported receiving 46 research proposals from nine Omani research institutions. These submissions were developed in collaboration with 12 scientific chairs affiliated with Sultan Qaboos Chairs at prominent international universities and academic entities.

Following a review process, eight research projects were approved for funding. These projects span the fields of humanities, social sciences, and applied sciences, reflecting the initiative’s broad interdisciplinary scope. Dr. Atika noted that this diversity demonstrates the programme’s effectiveness in building sustainable research partnerships that align with national priorities and enhance Oman’s research capabilities.

The RIA plays a central role in facilitating connections between the heads of scientific chairs and local researchers, fostering collaboration to exchange skills and develop innovative solutions to challenges at national, regional, and global levels.

Dr. Atika emphasized that the programme aligns with the objectives outlined in Oman Vision 2040, underlining the strategic focus on international scientific partnerships and the strengthening of the country’s research and innovation system.

The Sultan Qaboos Scientific Chairs, Professorships, and Fellowships represent key initiatives through which Oman supports the advancement of human knowledge, while promoting cultural dialogue and cooperation between the Arab world and other global regions.