Oman Science Festival’s tech offerings draw large crowds

STAFF REPORTER
MUSCAT, NOV 5
The fifth edition of the Oman Science Festival continued to attract large crowds on its fourth consecutive day at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, generating considerable interest among school and university students, academics and families. Visitors explored the latest developments and applications in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and artificial intelligence.
Organised by the Ministry of Education, the festival has brought together a wide range of participants from government, private and military institutions, as well as educational organisations. It has attracted large numbers of school students from across the governorates, who have taken part in training workshops and hands-on experiments, a key feature of this year's edition.
These activities have provided students with opportunities to test their knowledge and apply scientific concepts in innovative ways, making science more accessible while inspiring an interest in research and innovation among future generations.
The festival features several specialised zones showcasing applications of artificial intelligence, renewable energy, digital technologies, space science and environmental innovation. It also hosts panel discussions where leading experts and researchers examine the future of science and technology and their role in supporting a knowledge-based economy, in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
At the Vocational and Technical Education Zone, visitors learned about four educational pathways designed to equip students with the skills needed to enter the labour market or pursue higher education. These pathways cover engineering and industrial specialisations, including maintenance, mechanical manufacturing, welding, and occupational health and safety.
The festival also offers a series of specialised scientific activities and workshops conducted by experts from Oman and abroad.
Abdullah al Harbi of the Kuwait National Space Research Centre conducted a workshop titled 'Astrophotography: A Journey from Light to Knowledge'. He highlighted astrophotography as an advanced scientific tool for observing celestial bodies and analysing their physical properties, extending beyond its traditional role of capturing images of cosmic scenes. The workshop also explored the scientific principles behind astrophotography, beginning with the nature of electromagnetic radiation and the physical information carried by photons.
Meanwhile, Dr Michael Hoch of the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) presented a workshop introducing participants to elementary particles and the scientific experiments conducted at the organisation. The session included practical activities on designing simplified particle detectors and detecting cosmic rays, alongside innovative approaches to applying particle physics concepts, encouraging interactive learning and interdisciplinary collaboration.
At the Cybersecurity Zone, visitors embarked on an interactive journey into the world of digital mysteries and challenges. Participants took on the roles of cyber investigators and defenders, decoding messages, uncovering digital fraud techniques, analysing evidence and tackling simulated cyberattack and defence scenarios.
Visitors also had the opportunity to discover different types of Omani rocks, including specimens distinguished by their natural marine varnish.
The planetarium set up at the festival grounds offered another opportunity to explore the wonders of space.
Through spectacular visual presentations and engaging scientific content, visitors were introduced to planets, stars, galaxies and the solar system, along with a range of other scientific subjects.