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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
Observer
01-05-2025
- Observer
When captivating imagery speaks a thousand words
Words wield an extraordinary power, especially when wielded at just the right moment and within the right context. They can act as two-edged swords, capable of calming a tumultuous mind one moment and igniting unrest the next. Interestingly, often the words left unspoken resonate more profoundly than those that are voiced, and vice versa. The 29th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre has been graced by a stunning collection of photographs that eloquently speak a thousand words. This captivating exhibition, aptly titled 'A Thousand Words', is organised by the University of Technology and Applied Sciences as part of its ongoing mission to nurture artistic talents. Underscored by the auspices of Dr Said bin Hamad al Rubaie, President of the University, the exhibition showcases the remarkable creations of talented student artists, illustrating a brilliant tapestry of diversity and excellence across varying photography styles. When captivating imagery speaks a thousand words Visitors are treated to an array of images that bring to life Oman's breathtaking landscapes—spanning majestic mountains, serene plains, lush valleys, and the expansive sea—each photograph highlighting the country's rich environmental and touristic diversity. Moreover, the exhibition delves deeper, presenting works infused with profound intellectual and artistic narratives, all intricately connected to Omani identity and the broader human experience, each piece possessing a distinct artistic flair. The Department of Photography from the University's Muscat campus proudly contributes to the exhibition with photographs that celebrate unique heritage sites, shedding light on the depth and richness of Oman's authentic cultural heritage. When captivating imagery speaks a thousand words At the opening event, Hamama bint Masoud al Kindi, Head of the Photography Department, underscored that the 'A Thousand Words' exhibition reflects the University's commitment to providing students with valuable opportunities to exhibit their creative talents and introduce their artistic works to the audience at the Muscat International Book Fair. She further highlighted how this initiative not only nurtures artistic development but also paves the way for prospective career paths in the visual arts arena. Additionally, the exhibition encompasses a series of documentary films that explore various facets of Oman's cultural and historical heritage alongside traditional crafts. Audience members have warmly received these films, celebrating their distinguished content, unique artistic style, and overarching quality. When captivating imagery speaks a thousand words Dr Jinan Aal-Eisa, head of the Department of Communication and Media at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, noted that the 'A Thousand Words' exhibition, along with the accompanying films, will remain open to the public throughout the duration of the Muscat International Book Fair. This presents a wonderful opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the creativity of the students and to appreciate the stunning beauty of Omani nature and identity through their artistic lenses.
