العربية
Sohar University has signed a special agreement to launch a research funding programme named in Dr Sulaiman Al Huqani, in line with its unwavering commitment to promoting scientific research and fostering a culture of innovation within the academic community.
The signing took place during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Innovation Centre Building on the university campus. Dr Sulaiman Al Huqani played a significant role in supporting scientific investment in several private universities across the Sultanate of Oman. This thoughtful initiative by the late Dr’s family represents their deep commitment to continuing the journey of giving and academic support.
The agreement was signed by Dr Hamdan Al Fazari, Vice Chancellor of Sohar University, and Dr Shaikha Al Huqani, representing the family of Dr Sulaiman Al Huqani. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Her Excellency Professor Rahma Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, and was attended by a number of Excellencies, academics, researchers, and individuals interested in the fields of research and innovation.
The programme aims to support high-quality research projects at Sohar University to build research capacity among researchers, support Omani PhD students, and develop the research capabilities of post-doctoral researchers.
This research grant is an important step towards enhancing the quality of scientific output and supporting the achievement of the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which focuses on building a knowledge-based economy, empowering national research competencies, and encouraging applied studies that contribute to finding sustainable solutions for developmental challenges.
The agreement also seeks to incentivise outstanding researchers and students to participate in research projects with societal and economic impact, and to expand areas of cooperation between the University and national and regional institutions in innovation and sustainable development.
This move is part of Sohar University’s five-year strategy (2023–2028), which places scientific research and innovation at the core of its academic mission. The goal is for the University to become a leading regional centre for knowledge development, applying it to serve society and enhancing the competitiveness of the Sultanate of Oman at both the regional and international levels.