A group of women students from SQU who planned a graduation project with an original concept that advances the use of alternative energy ended up winning the Upgrade Programme. The project used graphene and polymer as an alternative layer to silicon, which is typically used in solar cells, in order to increase their efficiency. This concept was developed by Aisha al Wahaibi Muzn al Abri, Al Hasnaa al Adwani, and Nusiba al Kharusi and uses solar cells that are currently on the market.
It all began when the students came up with this novel idea that had never been put forth before, leading to a greater reliance on clean, renewable energy.
The concept is entirely original to Oman, and the materials will be produced there, specifically in the labs of Sultan Qaboos University. This project is made even more promising by the fact that the team took first place in the Third Solar Decathlon, a competition designed to support the clean energy workforce. This has motivated them to launch their own business in order to advance their project.
The winning upgrade programme has its share of difficulties, just like any other project. However, the students were only interested in the prize. Even though they struggled to find the right scientific papers to support their work, they managed to launch their concept into the market just in time.
The accomplishment of the students is undoubtedly a source of pride for both them and the Sultanate of Oman as a whole. At the ceremony for the scientific research Award, which was held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, they described how indescribable the feeling was when they heard the announcement. They were even happier to see so many other researchers who were passionate about the same things. The programme offers excellent financial and scientific support that aids participants in effectively promoting their projects.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation is in charge of planning the programme. It brings together recent graduates from various institutions and showcases the best capstone initiatives. By transforming them into emerging businesses in the information and communication technology and industry domains, it seeks to have a socio-economic impact.
A completed application form must be submitted along with a number of required attachments, including a letter from the student’s educational institution confirming that the project is a capstone endeavour. They must also include a complete report on the project as well as their final project plan.
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