Latest news with #MoHERI
Muscat Daily
3 days ago
- Business
- Muscat Daily
MoHERI launches ‘Inspirers of Change' initiative to promote positive institutional culture
Muscat – The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation (MoHERI) has launched a pioneering initiative titled 'Inspirers of Change', aimed at fostering a culture of motivation, positivity, and excellence within its institutional work environment. The initiative was inaugurated last week under the patronage of H E Professor Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. The launch aligns with the ministry's broader vision to modernise institutional culture, strengthen employee engagement, and enhance overall organisational performance. Designed to highlight individuals who serve as role models within the ministry, the initiative seeks to recognise employees who demonstrate a positive attitude, offer meaningful contributions, and actively drive change. By celebrating these efforts, 'Inspirers of Change' aims to inspire staff across all departments and levels to contribute to a more dynamic, inclusive, and transformative work environment. The launch ceremony was attended by senior officials and staff members. It featured inspiring presentations by employees who shared personal stories of overcoming challenges and contributing to a culture of resilience and productivity. Interactive sessions at the event focused on the human element of organisational change, underscoring how individual initiative, collaboration, and interpersonal engagement can significantly impact institutional success. On the occasion, the ministry also unveiled the official visual identity of its Change Management Team, which will oversee the implementation of the initiative and ensure its progress throughout the year as part of a comprehensive work plan. In its initial phase, the initiative will prioritise enhancing internal communication by sharing motivational messages and real-life success stories from within the ministry. Platforms such as WhatsApp will be used to help build a more connected and appreciative workplace culture, fostering a strong sense of belonging among employees. MoHERI confirmed that 'Inspirers of Change' marks a significant step forward in its efforts to create a supportive, innovative, and forward-thinking organisational environment. The initiative supports the Ministry's strategic objectives to invest in human capital and encourage staff to actively contribute to its mission and vision. It also aligns with the broader goals of Oman Vision 2040, reinforcing national efforts toward sustainable institutional transformation and excellence in public service.
Zawya
23-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Study explores green hydrogen transportation via pipelines in Oman
MUSCAT - Omani researchers have successfully concluded a key study exploring the potential to repurpose the Sultanate's expansive natural gas pipeline network for the transport of green hydrogen. The research initiative was jointly conducted by the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech) and Oman LNG, in collaboration with EJAAD, the research and development platform of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI). According to the study, pipeline-based transportation is critical to enabling Oman's future green hydrogen economy, envisioned to produce up to 8.5 million tonnes per annum by 2050. While a significant share of this output is targeted for global export, large volumes are expected to be retained for domestic use—powering the country's decarbonization goals and clean energy transition. Green hydrogen production hubs are planned primarily in Duqm and Dhofar Governorate, necessitating the development of cost-effective pipeline infrastructure—either newly built or repurposed from existing gas networks. To identify viable options, Oman LNG partnered with GUtech to assess the technical and economic feasibility of retrofitting the country's natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transport. Mohammed Al Mukhaini, General Manager ICV at Oman LNG, stated: 'Repurposing Oman's existing natural gas pipeline network for hydrogen transport offers a significant strategic advantage. The infrastructure is already well-established and socially accepted, reducing both cost and complexity compared to building an entirely new hydrogen network. Our collaboration with GUtech enables us to explore technically sound and economically viable pathways to support Oman's clean energy ambitions, particularly as the country accelerates toward its 2050 Net Zero targets.' Prof Najah Al Mhanna, Principal Investigator at GUtech, noted that the repurposing process can be phased based on how hydrogen supply and demand evolve over time. 'Oman's natural gas pipeline network is well developed, linking the central and northern regions to the south. Retrofitting any segment of this network for hydrogen transport requires rigorous analysis of operating conditions, gas mixtures, and physical properties. Our study assessed these variables and developed a model to calculate the levelized cost of transporting hydrogen across a range of natural gas-hydrogen blends (from 0–100%) using the existing infrastructure,' he explained. EJAAD played a central role in facilitating the collaboration between Oman LNG and GUtech. As a key R&D enabler, EJAAD bridges industry and academia, helping drive innovation and progress on strategic national priorities. This project exemplifies the value of coordinated public-private partnerships in supporting Oman's energy transition and broader economic diversification efforts.
Observer
22-06-2025
- Science
- Observer
Training programme to improve quality of research, innovation output
Muscat: As part of its ongoing efforts to build national research and innovation capabilities, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI) has launched the second edition of its Research and Innovation Training Support Programme. This initiative aims to equip researchers and innovators across the Sultanate of Oman with the necessary skills and knowledge through specialised training programmes, developed in partnership with academic institutions. Ali Abdullah al Maskari, Director of Capacity Building at MoHERI, said that the programme was introduced to strengthen national research capacity through targeted training that promotes knowledge production and scientific excellence. "Our aim is to improve the quality of research and innovation output in Oman by providing high-level, specialised training courses in cooperation with academic institutions. This contributes directly to the Sultanate of Oman's global ranking in science and innovation indicators. Previously, each institution could only submit two proposals — one in research and one in innovation. Now, based on the size and research profile of each institution, universities are allowed to submit up to six proposals. This enables wider participation and diversity in training content,' Al Maskari explained. The programme targets a broad segment of society including students, academics, technicians, administrators, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, jobseekers and staff at higher education institutions. Both Omani and non-Omani participants aged 18 and above are eligible to apply. The supported fields this year include research and innovation project management, scientific research methodologies, proposal writing, grant and funding acquisition, Artificial intelligence and digital transformation in research. Applications are assessed against a set of criteria that ensure quality and relevance. 'We look at the quality and relevance of the content, the qualifications of the trainers, alignment with national research priorities, the proposed training duration, the training methods used, accessibility of the training location and the availability of essential facilities,' Al Maskari said. Reflecting on the first edition, Al Maskari shared that 18 academic institutions submitted 36 training proposals, of which 18 were funded. The programme attracted 489 participants from across Oman, achieving a satisfaction rate of 87 per cent. One particularly inspiring example was a group of four participants from the Wilayat of Ibri in Al Dhahirah Governorate who attended a three-week training in Al Buraimi without missing a single session — demonstrating extraordinary commitment and enthusiasm. The programme's inaugural cycle also revealed a number of challenges. One such issue was the inconsistent visual branding of the training materials. 'We resolved this by developing a unified template for presentations, posters and electronic materials to be used by all participating institutions,' said Al Maskari. Other measures included shortening some training courses and offering hybrid options (in- person and online) to increase accessibility and participation. Looking ahead, Al Maskari revealed that the ministry is working on launching a new initiative aimed at supporting Omani researchers and innovators to participate in international training programmes. 'This expansion will open new global learning pathways and will be launched in the last quarter of this year. It complements our current programme and directly supports the goals of Oman Vision 2040,' he said.
Observer
27-05-2025
- Science
- Observer
Five Omani projects selected for London science forum
Muscat: The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI) announced on Tuesday the names of five outstanding Omani research projects that have been selected to represent the Sultanate of Oman at the 66th edition of the London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF) 2025. 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."
Muscat Daily
21-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Registration open for Falling Walls Lab Oman 2025
Muscat – Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI) has announced the opening of registration for the Falling Walls Lab Oman 2025 being held in collaboration with Germany's Falling Walls Foundation. Registration is open till June 19. MoHERI described the Falling Walls Lab as a global platform dedicated to showcasing innovative ideas and research across a wide range of disciplines. The competition aims to connect researchers, academics, entrepreneurs, professionals and investors while promoting cultural and scientific exchange. Falling Walls Lab is open to individuals from all academic and professional backgrounds – bachelor's degree holders who graduated in the last ten years, master's degree holders who completed their studies in the past seven years, and PhD holders who earned their degrees in the last five years. Current undergraduate, master's and doctoral students are also encouraged to apply. All applications must be submitted in English. Participants are required to present their research protects, innovative ideas, social initiatives or entrepreneurial ventures in a concise three-minute presentation. A panel of judges comprising experts from academia, research institutions and the business sector, will assess presentations based on originality, impact and feasibility. The winner of the local lab will go on to represent Oman at the Falling Walls Lab global finals which will take place in Berlin from November 5 to 9, 2025.
