Two Omani students win awards for pioneering research

BUSINESS REPORTER

MUSCAT, NOV 27

The 9th anniversary of the Oman CCED Student Awards for the Advancement of Post-Graduate Education was celebrated at Muscat University on Wednesday, honouring Elham Khalfan Said al Nadabi, a Master of Science student at Sultan Qaboos University, and Eng Abdulmajeed al Wahaibi, a Master of Science candidate at the University of Leeds, for their pioneering academic research.

Launched in 2016, the Awards were created to inspire young Omani students by surfacing academic role models and bolstering the foundation for a knowledge-driven economy. Since then, CC Energy Development (CCED), has curated the annual nomination and selection process, encouraging post-graduate students to create transformative knowledge and drive innovation in critical areas such as digital transformation and sustainability.

“For nine years, the CCED Student Awards have celebrated those who create knowledge, not just consume it. These students are shaping Oman’s future by driving innovation and addressing real-world challenges,” said Walter Simpson, Managing Director of CC Energy Development. “

We aim to equip the next generation of Omani talent with the practical experience needed to become architects of tomorrow’s solutions.”

As part of their recognition, the 2024 Award Winners will participate in a paid three-month internship with CCED Oman. During this time, they will gain firsthand experience and contribute to key initiatives in sustainability, digital innovation, and green technologies, bridging the gap between academic research and real-world applications in Oman’s energy sector. The winners join a distinguished network of over twenty alumni who have advanced to leadership roles in many of Oman’s top institutions. Reflecting on the milestone, Simpson noted, “This alumni network is proof of the enduring impact of the CCED Student Awards in shaping Oman’s future.”

The Awards hosted this year by Dr Hayat Harati, Director, Research and Innovation, Muscat University, align with Oman’s national vision for a knowledge-driven economy and Net Zero by 2050, fostering a pipeline of talent capable of addressing evolving global challenges. Over the past nine years, the program has played a vital role in empowering students to transition from traditional learning to becoming innovators and contributors to Oman’s sustainable development.