MoC on meteorites, and geopark projects signed

MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) signed a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) to support research and scientific collaboration in the fields of meteorites, geological heritage, and geopark projects in the Sultanate of Oman.
The memorandum was signed by Eng Ibrahim bin Said al Kharousi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage, and Dr Said bin Hamad al Rubaie, Vice-Chancellor of UTAS.
The memorandum aims to develop cooperation in studying and analysing meteorite samples, documenting geological heritage, and implementing joint research projects and applied studies in the fields of geological heritage, meteorites, geoparks, and related sciences. It also seeks to enhance educational and training programs and build national capacities in these specialised areas.
Furthermore, the memorandum includes the implementation of several specialised programmes designed to involve academic staff in scientific projects and national initiatives related to geological heritage and geoparks.
This is intended to contribute to the dissemination of scientific knowledge and the enhancement of community awareness regarding the role of scientific research in supporting national development and diversifying the utilisation of natural resources, reflecting the history and natural diversity of the Sultanate of Oman.
The MoC also provides for the implementation of educational and knowledge-based programmes for university students in geological heritage, the organisation of awareness and educational visits to geoparks, and the establishment of a permanent exhibition at one of the university’s branches dedicated to introducing meteorites in the Sultanate of Oman. — ONA