OCHS signs academic agreement with Indonesian university

MUSCAT: Oman College of Health Sciences (OCHS) has strengthened its international academic engagement through participation in the QS Higher Education Summit: Asia Pacific 2026, held at the Bali International Convention Centre in Indonesia from November 3 to 5.
The college's delegation was headed by Dr Fahad bin Mahmoud al Zadjali, Dean of Oman College of Health Sciences. The participation aimed to expand international academic and research partnerships, exchange expertise and explore opportunities for cooperation in health education.
Held under the theme 'Elevating Education for Purpose and Impact', the summit brought together universities, higher education institutions and academic leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond to discuss emerging trends and challenges shaping the future of higher education.
The event focused on several key areas, including international academic cooperation, the application of AI in education, graduate employability, scientific research and innovation, institutional competitiveness and global university rankings.
The summit was officially inaugurated by Prof Badri Munir Sukoco, Secretary General of Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, representing the minister, alongside the Chief Executive Officer of QS.
In his opening remarks, Sukoco highlighted the need for higher education institutions to adapt to rapid technological developments, particularly artificial intelligence, and strengthen cooperation to create an education system capable of meeting future needs and delivering sustainable benefits to society.
The summit also featured an international exhibition showcasing academic programmes, research initiatives and opportunities for institutional partnerships, alongside panel discussions and specialised workshops on higher education developments.
On the sidelines of the event, OCHS signed a Letter of Intent with Indonesia's Universitas Padjadjaran to explore academic cooperation and develop partnerships in nursing and pharmacy.
The proposed collaboration covers academic programmes, knowledge and expertise exchange, joint research opportunities, and student and faculty exchange.
The college's participation and the agreement are aligned with its strategic objectives and Oman Vision 2040, which emphasises high-quality education, scientific research, innovation and international partnerships.
Through its engagement in international academic forums, OCHS seeks to strengthen its educational and research capabilities, enhance the quality of its programmes and prepare a skilled national healthcare workforce equipped to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare sector.
The participation also supports Oman's efforts to enhance the international standing of its higher education institutions and expand cooperation with leading universities worldwide.