MUSCAT: Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) showcased its academic, research and institutional achievements during its 2026 annual media briefing, reaffirming its commitment to excellence and alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
The event was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU, and attended by senior officials, academics and media representatives.
HH Sayyid Dr Fahd, said, "The university’s achievements reflect the continued Royal support of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for education, research and innovation, which drives us to continue our journey of excellence and strengthen our national role."
He noted that the university achieved progress in 13 out of 18 Oman Vision 2040 indicators in 2025, including advancing to 334th globally and 8th in the Arab world in QS rankings. He added, we are steadily implementing our strategic and operational plans, while expanding international accreditation and enhancing the quality of our graduates in line with global standards.
The university’s long-term strategy (2016–2040) focuses on quality education, research excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship, supported by its third executive plan (2026–2030), which prioritises digital transformation, human capital development and global competitiveness.
In 2025, the university recorded strong performance indicators, including 85 per cent employer satisfaction with graduates, 70 per cent accreditation of undergraduate programmes and 1,851 research publications. It also established seven startups and registered 14 patents, reflecting a growing innovation ecosystem.
SQU continues to play a vital role in building national talent, with more than 74,000 graduates since its establishment. For the 2025–2026 academic year, it admitted over 3,100 students, including students with disabilities, alongside 957 postgraduate students.
The university has expanded its academic offerings, introducing programmes in artificial intelligence, data science, digital business and veterinary medicine, while postgraduate programmes reached 123 across master’s and doctoral levels.
HH Sayyidah Dr Mona bint Fahd al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation at SQU, emphasised the importance of partnerships, she stated, between 2024 and 2025, the university signed 51 cooperation agreements, reinforcing our international presence and supporting research, skills development and academic quality.”
She added, these partnerships are a cornerstone of our development ecosystem, contributing to improved education, advanced research and stronger global rankings, while serving the community.” Dr Amir bin Saif al Hinai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Research said, the revised academic promotion system is based on teaching and learning, research and innovation, and community service, with clear evaluation criteria and defined weights.
He added, for the first time, creative contributions such as literary, artistic and architectural works are included, ensuring a more balanced and transparent evaluation process.”
Dr Salim bin Hamoud al Harthy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Service, highlighted the university’s focus on artificial intelligence, noting: “We began integrating emerging technologies into academic programmes early on and have trained around 800 academics in AI applications.
He added, we are establishing a dedicated unit for emerging technologies, including AI, cybersecurity and blockchain, while strengthening student skills through national initiatives and digital programmes.
Dr Nasser bin Musbah al Zaidi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administrative and Financial Affairs, outlined future infrastructure projects, stated that the male student residential city will accommodate up to 6,000 students, with the first phase serving 2,000 students within three to four years.” He added, the project will include integrated facilities such as sports, commercial and service areas, creating an attractive and comprehensive student environment.”
Through its integrated approach to education, research and innovation, Sultan Qaboos University continues to strengthen its position as a leading institution, contributing to national development and enhancing Oman’s global academic presence.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
