I closely follow the local AI movement and its developments. As we entered 2024, I have noticed an increase in AI-related symposiums and conferences organised in Oman by both governmental and private entities.
These gatherings vary in their digital focus, with many emphasising AI applications through educational initiatives targeting different societal groups, from school students to university students, and extending to the general and industrial communities.
These events highlight local expertise in digital transformation, featuring researchers and specialists, and benefit from international experiences shared in these digital forums.
Many symposiums have resulted in recommendations clarifying the path for implementing digital transformation plans, including AI projects.
They also underline Oman's strong digital presence in AI and the high readiness of the involved institutions, demonstrated through various means, such as exhibitions showcasing digital projects that reflect both student creativity and the innovation of small and medium enterprises led by ambitious Omani youth.
I do not wish to reiterate the details of these digital gatherings that have been widely covered by local media and social media platforms. Anyone interested can easily follow their news and participate actively.
As soon as one symposium ends, another begins, a fact I am reminded of through personal invitations to participate.
My aim in this article is to explore ways to enhance these events and broaden their impact through proposals.
One suggestion is to bridge the gap in communicating these events to all societal segments, especially those interested in the digital field. I am sometimes surprised by the lack of awareness among specialists about some of these events, and more so when announcements or showcases are made post-event.
This limits the reach and participation, missing out on the potential contributions of other Omani specialists.
To address this, a comprehensive database of Omani digital specialists should be created in cooperation with relevant entities, which would facilitate the direct and swift delivery of invitations to these events, maximising their benefits and impact.
In addition to this targeted approach to engage specialists, a broader promotional effort is necessary to publicise these events well in advance, allowing for wider participation from both academic and investment perspectives.
My second proposal focuses on the earnest activation of follow-up and implementation committees.
This should not be limited to government conferences but should extend to all such events to ensure the longevity and implementation of knowledge and recommendations post-conference.
I have previously chaired such a committee for a national conference on digital transformation, and while some recommendations were implemented, the fate of others remains unknown.
It's crucial for these events to be linked to a follow-up mechanism that ensures monitoring and implementation, contributing to the scientific and economic development of the nation. This alignment with 'Vision Oman 2040' is essential for amplifying national efforts in the digital and economic sectors, achievable only through collaborative efforts and opening doors for all organising entities to engage in mutual interaction towards common national goals.
This article is not a critique but an interactive proposition to push forward the digital movement and its related activities, including the organisation of events that have seen increased activity since the beginning of this year.
This reflects a significant interest and ambition from both governmental and private institutions in contributing to the scientific and economic upliftment.
We all rely on societal awareness of the digital sector and its key components like AI, which will propel progress and accelerate its pace. Such scientific events and their interactions will play a crucial role in building this desired awareness.
Dr Muamar bin Ali Al Tobi
The writer is an Omani academic and researcher
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