MUSCAT: The 12th Annual Research Forum 2025 was held on Sunday at Al Bustan Palace under the theme 'Publishing Research, Realising Visions', bringing together researchers, academics and officials in a celebration of scientific excellence. The event took place under the auspices of HH Sayyidah Meyyan bint Shihab al Said.
In her opening address, Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, underscored Oman’s ongoing progress in research and innovation. She highlighted efforts to enhance research quality, strengthen scientific publishing and empower young innovators, all in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
The forum also featured remarks by Prof Abdelmajid Ben Amara, Secretary-General of the Federation of Arab Scientific Research Councils (FASRC), who noted the forum’s alignment with FASRC’s International Green Innovation Forum, reflecting a broader regional focus on sustainable research and development.
A highlight of the event was the announcement of the 12th National Research Award winners, recognising outstanding research across two categories: projects led by PhD holders and projects conducted by young researchers without doctoral degrees.
Among the laureates was Prof Haider bin Ahmed al Lawati of Sultan Qaboos University, honoured for developing an innovative paper-based microfluidic device to analyse phenolic compounds in olive oil from Al Jabal Al Akhdhar.
Speaking to the Observer, he said, “The award is not the goal... it is the outcome of true passion for research.” He added that his work aids in identifying high-quality olive varieties, supporting future agricultural advancements.
Another winner, Dr Muhammad Zakarya from Sohar University, was recognised for ApMove, a project that enables autonomous vehicles to seamlessly transfer digital services as they move between communication stations. Reflecting on his achievement, he said the award represents “a meaningful moment in my career... and a strong incentive to continue.”
The forum also saw the signing of agreements for key national research programmes, including the Strategic Research Programme, the Block Funding Programme, and the Innovation and Technology Transfer Centres Support Programme. In addition, the Oman Innovates platform unveiled its new visual identity, marking a step towards connecting innovators with opportunities and strengthening the national innovation ecosystem.
Throughout the day, presentations and panel discussions focused on strategies to enhance research quality, improve scientific publishing practices and align academic output with national priorities.
With strong participation from Oman’s research community, the Annual Research Forum continues to nurture a vibrant culture of innovation, empowering local talent to contribute to scientific progress and supporting the nation’s long-term vision for sustainable development.
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