Latest news with #OmanVision2040
Observer
16 hours ago
- Science
- Observer
Oman's higher education institutions make mark in world rankings
MUSCAT: The 2026 QS World University Rankings have recognised five Omani higher education institutions, including Sultan Qaboos University, University of Nizwa, Dhofar University, Sohar University, and the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech). Sultan Qaboos University achieved significant progress, climbing 28 spots to secure the 334th position globally. The University of Nizwa ranked within the 770–761 bracket, while Dhofar University was placed in the 900–851 range. Sohar University entered the rankings within the 1000–951 category, and GUtech was positioned between 1200–1001. This performance reflects the steady advancement of Oman's academic and research infrastructure, as reported by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the UK-based global higher education analyst, on its official 2026 rankings website. Dr Maryam al Nabhani, Director-General of Private Universities and Colleges at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, stated that the QS rankings are among the most prestigious global benchmarks for higher education institutions. She noted that Oman Vision 2040 includes a strategic objective for national universities to break into the global academic elite, with an emphasis on placing four Omani universities among the world's top 500 in QS rankings. She explained that the QS methodology evaluates universities based on key indicators, including academic reputation (assessed through expert surveys on teaching and research quality), employer reputation (measuring graduate employability), and faculty-to-student ratios (reflecting educational quality). Research impact is gauged through citation metrics, while international faculty and student ratios demonstrate institutional diversity and global appeal. Dr Maryam al Nabhani, Director-General of Private Universities and Colleges at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation Additional metrics encompass sustainability performance, contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), graduate employment outcomes and international research collaboration networks. Dr Maryam emphasised that these results reflect Oman's national efforts to enhance academic competitiveness in line with Oman Vision 2040. They also underscore the continuous progress of Omani higher education institutions in elevating academic standards and strengthening their global presence. HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU, stated that 'this achievement is a reflection of reality and the result of dedicated efforts and continuous commitment to making Sultan Qaboos University among the best globally in various fields. It also embodies the leadership we aspire to in order to enhance the quality of education. Furthermore, it fulfils one of the key objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which includes, among its indicators, the goal of having at least one Omani university ranked among the top 300 universities worldwide by the year 2040. We hope to continue this dedication and progress towards achieving these goals for the benefit of the university and its members.' - ONA
Observer
16 hours ago
- Science
- Observer
SQU advances 28 places, ranks 334 in QS World University Ranking
Muscat: Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has continued its progress in the QS World University Rankings 2026 for the second consecutive year, advancing by twenty-eight places to reach the 334th position globally. This marks a new achievement for the university in this ranking and reflects SQU's continuous efforts to continually improve its performance and progress. The number of universities included in this year's QS ranking reached 1,503, out of a total of 8,467 universities worldwide, with the addition of 112 new universities this year. The indicators for academic reputation, employment outcomes, research citations, and international research network have shown clear progress this year. This reflects SQU's strong commitment to graduating highly competent students and its continuous efforts to advance the research sector and support its researchers—making them exemplary figures cited across various research fields. HH Sayyid Dr. Fahad bin Al Julanda Al Said, SQU Vice Chancellor, stated that 'this achievement is a reflection of reality and the result of dedicated efforts and continuous commitment to making Sultan Qaboos University among the best globally in various fields. It also embodies the leadership we aspire to in order to enhance the quality of education. Furthermore, it fulfills one of the key objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which includes, among its indicators, the goal of having at least one Omani university ranked among the top 300 universities worldwide by the year 2040. We hope to continue this dedication and progress toward achieving these goals for the benefit of the university and its members.' SQU has made significant progress in the QS World University Rankings by Academic Programs 2025. Its petroleum engineering major reached 25th place globally, while its nursing major reached 32nd place, making it one of the top 50 majors globally. These achievements affirm SQU's commitment to continuing its leading academic and scientific journey in higher education and research, and to strengthening its status as a prestigious global academic institution.
Times of Oman
21 hours ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
CBO joins network for greening the financial system
Muscat: The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) has officially announced its membership in the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS), a global alliance of central banks and supervisory authorities aimed at enhancing the financial sector's resilience to climate-related and environmental risks. Launched during the "One Planet Summit" in Paris in December 2017 with eight founding members, the NGFS has since expanded into a worldwide network comprising over 160 central banks and regulatory bodies. The initiative seeks to collaborate with members in transforming the financial and banking systems into environmentally friendly and sustainable models. This is achieved through knowledge-sharing, cooperation, and the adoption of international best practices in developing regulatory frameworks to promote sustainability. The CBO's membership underscores its steadfast commitment to building a resilient, sustainable, and forward-looking financial system. This move aligns with Oman Vision 2040, the Sultanate of Oman's national strategy for a structured transition toward net-zero emissions, as well as the launch of the National Environmental Policy for Energy. As part of its strategic climate initiatives, the CBO has introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework and roadmap designed to advance sustainable and green finance in line with international standards and Oman's goal of achievingcarbon neutrality by 2050. These efforts include phased disclosure requirements for licensed financial institutions, alongside active participation in global climate initiatives, such as those led by the G20. Through this membership, the CBO joins a collaborative international effort to promote sustainable finance and strengthen the financial sector's readiness in addressing escalating challenges posed by climate change and ecosystem degradation. —— Ends/AH
Times of Oman
a day ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Five Omani higher education institutions make mark in 2026 QS World Rankings
Muscat: The 2026 QS World University Rankings have recognised five Omani higher education institutions, including Sultan Qaboos University, University of Nizwa, Dhofar University, Sohar University, and the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech). Sultan Qaboos University achieved significant progress, climbing 28 spots to secure the 334th position globally. The University of Nizwa ranked within the 770–761 bracket, while Dhofar University was placed in the 900–851 range. Sohar University entered the rankings within the 1000–951 category, and GUtech was positioned between 1200–1001. This performance reflects the steady advancement of Oman's academic and research infrastructure, as reported by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the UK-based global higher education analyst, on its official 2026 rankings website. Dr. Maryam Bil'arab Al Nabhani, Director General of Private Universities and Colleges at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, stated that the QS rankings are among the most prestigious global benchmarks for higher education institutions. She noted that Oman Vision 2040 includes a strategic objective for national universities to break into the global academic elite, with an emphasis on placing four Omani universities among the world's top 500 in QS rankings. She explained that the QS methodology evaluates universities based on key indicators, including academic reputation (assessed through expert surveys on teaching and research quality), employer reputation (measuring graduate employability), and faculty-to-student ratios (reflecting educational quality). Research impact is gauged through citation metrics, while international faculty and student ratios demonstrate institutional diversity and global appeal. Additional metrics encompass sustainability performance, contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), graduate employment outcomes, and international research collaboration networks. Dr. Al Nabhani emphasised that these results reflect Oman's national efforts to enhance academic competitiveness in line with Oman Vision 2040. They also underscore the continuous progress of Omani higher education institutions in elevating academic standards and strengthening their global presence.
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
Establishment of UTAS branch in Musandam contributes to balanced development
KHASAB: The establishment of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Musandam Governorate is a strategic project with economic, scientific, tourism and social dimensions. It forms part of the comprehensive development and urban strategy to advance the governorate, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040. The project is expected to contribute to balanced development across Oman's governorates, attract investment in projects and services, and enhance the governorate's economic system, including marine eco-tourism, the fisheries sector, logistics transport services and renewable energy investments. Dr Said bin Hamad al Rubaie, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, emphasised that the Musandam branch will strengthen human development factors, increase job opportunities for the local community and supply the labour market with graduates who meet the requirements of the comprehensive development plan. This will be achieved through high-quality educational and training programmes that reinforce national identity and social values while equipping graduates with modern knowledge and skills for life and work. In a statement, he said that the establishment of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences branch in Musandam Governorate marks the first higher education institution in the governorate, aimed at developing Omani human resources and serving as a key driver of social and economic progress. The current admission plan anticipates around 750 students across various specialisations upon the graduation of the first cohort with bachelor's degrees. The number of enrolled and admitted students is expected to grow annually after the completion of the branch's permanent building. He noted that in the 2024/2025 academic year, the university's total student number reached 46,875, including 22,503 male students (48%) and 24,372 female students (52%), in addition to 147 postgraduate students. During the same academic year, the Musandam branch enrolled 328 students. The university offers diverse specialisations across its six colleges: Creative Industries, Education, Applied Sciences and Pharmacy, Economics and Administrative Sciences, Computing and Information Sciences, and Engineering and Technology. These programmes are available at diploma, advanced diploma and bachelor's levels. At the Musandam branch during the 2024/2025 academic year, several unique and in-demand programmes were introduced, aligned with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including cloud computing, financial technology, digital business and analytics, and education. The university also plans to introduce scientific specialisations in the second phase, covering marine navigation, marine systems design and marine product processing technology. These programmes are expected to attract students from across Oman and beyond. He explained that, till the completion of the permanent branch building, a temporary facility has been leased to accommodate students and staff. The interim building includes classrooms, academic and administrative offices, computer and science labs, a library, meeting halls and other service facilities. As for the final designs for the main branch buildings in Khasab, he affirmed that pre-qualification for the project has been completed, and bids from companies are currently being analysed by the university's consultancy office and specialists. Dr Said added that future plans for the Musandam branch include establishing a marine sciences department in a prime location in Bukha. The branch will feature a control tower for boat competitions, a racing circuit, workshops, offices, labs and classrooms — all meeting global standards for higher education institutions. - ONA
