By Najma Al Zidjaly

The past few weeks have been filled with joy among the academic and administrative staff at Sultan Qaboos University as we celebrated a remarkable leap in global university rankings, moving up 92 places, inching ever so close to the coveted top 300. This achievement reflects SQU’s commitment to academic excellence and its vital role in fostering research and community service.

This leap did not manifest out of a vacuum. Since H H Sayyid Dr Fahad bin al Julanda al Said took the helm as vice-chancellor in 2020, the vision for SQU – rooted in the aspirations of our founder, the Late Sultan Qaboos bin Said – has been clear: to become a leading global university. I had the honour of serving on two university committees in 2020-2021 dedicated to increasing SQU’s entrepreneurial and research activities. The swift progress SQU has made is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our collaborative teams.

At the core of SQU’s mission is a dedication to research and innovation. SQU’s state-of-the-art facilities and supportive environment have established us as a leading research institution in the region. SQU’s research grants address critical areas such as renewable energy, water resources, health, and sustainable development. Partnerships with international institutions have resulted in high-impact publications, positioning SQU as a hub for cutting-edge research in the Arab region, and hopefully soon in the world.

The rise in our ranking also speaks of our relentless pursuit of academic excellence. SQU has implemented rigorous academic standards, attracted highly qualified faculty, and fostered a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. SQU’s focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of modern technologies in teaching and learning have been crucial to our progress, ensuring that Omani students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for the challenges of the modern world.

SQU’s commitment to research is evident in its support system for researchers, providing funding, grants, and scholarships. Specialised research centres focus on critical areas of study, driving forward-thinking solutions to complex problems. This was clearly evidenced in the report shared by Prof Amer bin Saif al Hinai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Postgraduate Studies and Research, during the inaugural speech on the 24th SQU Annual University Day (May 5-8, 2024). Moreover, the university’s professional development programmes for researchers ensure we are well-equipped to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society.

Beyond academics and research, SQU is deeply committed to serving the community. This commitment has grown under the leadership of Prof Salim bin Hamoud al Harthi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Services. SQU’s engagement with local communities through outreach programmes and partnerships addresses societal needs and promotes sustainable development. Its continuing education programmes, vocational training, and workshops empower individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, the university’s healthcare and environmental initiatives improve community health and promote sustainable practices.

SQU further instils a strong sense of social responsibility in its students, encouraging volunteerism and community service. Our student organisations play an active role in organising community activities, which benefit both the community and students’ leadership and civic engagement skills.

The impressive rise of Sultan Qaboos University in the global rankings reflects the national university’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and community service. By prioritising these areas, SQU not only enhances its reputation but also contributes significantly to the development of Oman and the broader region. As we continue to advance, SQU remains a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility, exemplifying the transformative power of higher education.

In conclusion, SQU’s achievements underscore the importance of a holistic approach to education, integrating academic rigour, research excellence, and community engagement. Our progress serves as an inspiring model for other institutions, demonstrating that with vision, dedication, and strategic investment, remarkable progress is attainable.

This achievement reminds me of a personal story: In a recruitment meeting, a potential candidate asked the then Dean of College of Arts and Social Sciences what he liked and disliked about SQU. The Hon Prof Abdullah bin Khamis al Kindi replied, “I love it all.” Today, I can proudly say I share Prof Abdullah’s sentiment. I love everything about Sultan Qaboos University and look forward to further contributing to our goal of becoming one of the top 300 universities in the world.

(Najma Al Zidjaly is concerned about topics on self, national and cultural development. She is a researcher and associate professor of social media and Arab Omani identity in the Department of English Language and Literature, College of Arts & Social Sciences, at Sultan Qaboos University)