21-06-2025
Unesco Chair Aflaj contract extended
NIZWA: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) has extended the contract of the Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies at Nizwa University for another four years under the new name: Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies and Socio-hydrology.
The extension of the contract affirms the scientific role the University of Nizwa plays in documenting traditional and cultural knowledge and its sustainable management, particularly with regard to the Omani aflaj system, an ancient irrigation system that combines environmental, social and cultural aspects.
Dr Abdullah bin Saif al Ghafri, Professor of the Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies and Sociohydrology said: 'The change of the name comes in response to global scientific trends towards socio-hydrology, an interdisciplinary field that studies the relationship between human societies and their water resources. It highlights water management, water justice and the behaviour of individuals and institutions towards water as well as the associated cultural and developmental dimensions.
He pointed out that since its launch in 2021, the Unesco Chair in Aflaj Studies has achieved a number of scientific and academic accomplishments including the publication of dozens of research papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals, the introduction of specialised university courses on aflaj, the production of radio and documentary programmes and the provision of field consultations for farmers and aflaj managers.
He added that the University of Nizwa has played a pivotal role in supporting the project since its inception, providing basic funding and academic and logistical support, in addition to support from ministries and government agencies, such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the Diwan of Royal Court, the Oman Water Society, among others.
He stated that the Chair continues to expand its network of research collaborations with universities and scientific centres in several countries, including Japan, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Morocco and Iran. This strengthens its scientific presence internationally and facilitates the exchange of knowledge about traditional water systems.
He pointed out that the Omani aflaj system is receiving increasing attention from international researchers, due to its natural sustainability and harmony between humans and the environment. He emphasised that the Chair seeks to become an international centre specialising in socio-hydrology. — ONA
