AL MUSANNAH: A scientific forum titled 'What If 2026' for research and innovation was inaugurated on Monday in the Wilayat of Al Musannah, Al Batinah South Governorate. Organised by the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Al Musannah, the forum aims to provide an interactive platform that bridges research and entrepreneurship.
The forum was inaugurated under the auspices of Dr Saif bin Abdullah al Haddabi, Chairman of the Research and Innovation Authority.
The forum discussed ways to transform ideas into practical applications that serve society and enhance the knowledge economy, in alignment with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, with broad participation from students, researchers and innovators, alongside the attendance of specialists and representatives from government and private entities supporting the innovation ecosystem.
The forum featured scientific sessions that addressed the enhancement of collaboration between academic institutions and the industrial sector, alongside the presentation of applied research projects tackling local challenges in Al Batinah South Governorate, with the proposal of actionable solutions.
The forum included working papers that addressed the integration of roles between academic institutions and industrial sectors in supporting innovation. During the event, a competition titled 'Best Research Project' was held with multidisciplinary student participation.
On the sidelines of the forum, an exhibition was held, featuring examples of student innovations and research experiences, along with interactive booths that allowed visitors to experience design thinking and problem-solving, in addition to the display of modern technologies, including robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and three-dimensional (3D) printing.
A number of Omani innovators showcased their experiences in transforming ideas into applied projects, spanning the fields of environmental technologies, artificial intelligence and industrial applications.
These included the development of 3D printing materials derived from marine algae, the employment of artificial intelligence in product analysis, and the innovation of technological solutions to serve productive sectors. - ONA
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