Five Omani projects selected for London science forum
The announcement follows the conclusion of a national competition that saw 340 research proposals submitted by young researchers across the Sultanate of Oman. After rigorous evaluation, 30 projects were shortlisted, from which the top five were chosen to take part in this globally respected event, scheduled to be held in London, United Kingdom, from July 23 to August 6, 2025.
The selected projects reflect a diversity of ideas addressing critical environmental and technological challenges through innovative scientific solutions. The five representatives are: Hala bint Ali al Zuabiyah, for her project titled 'Dual Treatment of Landfill Leachate Using Date Seed Tannins and Advanced Oxidation Technology', Al Muntasir bin Salim al Maamari, for his project 'AI-Assisted Green Hydrogen Production from Prosopis Juliflora and Industrial Waste', Saif bin Jumaa al Hashar, for his environmentally focused project 'Envai,' which integrates sustainability and technology, Zainab bint Khamis al Maharbiyah, for her digital platform 'Nadeem,' which supports social impact projects and fosters community engagement and Deema bint Khalaf al Maawaliyah, for her AI-powered digital platform designed to identify the most damaged pipes within water networks, helping reduce water losses and improve resource management.
The evaluation of submissions was carried out by a panel of experts comprising faculty and researchers from Sultan Qaboos University, University of Technology and Applied Sciences (Al Sharqiyah Branch), the Global College of Engineering and Technology, and the Military Technological College. The judging criteria focused on originality, scientific merit, real-world applicability and innovative potential.
Speaking on the significance of Oman's participation, Abeer bint Mubarak al Jabri, Research and Innovation Capacity Building Specialist at MoHERI, highlighted that the London International Youth Science Forum is a non-profit social institution established in 1959, which has since transformed the lives of more than 22,000 students worldwide.
'The forum brings together young science enthusiasts from around the world to exchange knowledge, explore cultural diversity, and engage with leading scientists and researchers,' she said. 'It serves as a global platform that empowers future scientists with critical skills, insights, and international exposure.'
Al Jabri noted that Oman's participation in LIYSF reflects the country's broader goals of strengthening youth capabilities in research and innovation, encouraging creativity and promoting global scientific dialogue.
She added: 'The forum enables Omani students to build networks with peers from different countries, learn about emerging technologies and gain hands-on experience in various scientific domains. It is a space where young minds are inspired to think globally and act scientifically. Between 2016 and 2024, the national competition has attracted a total of 817 applicants, with 123 projects making it to the final evaluation rounds. Of these, 43 students have represented Oman at the LIYSF to date."
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