Muscat – The Sultanate of Oman and Republic of Türkiye signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Ankara on Thursday aimed at strengthening the fields of higher education.

The agreement encompasses the exchange of scholarships and academic staff, mutual recognition of higher education institutions, transfer of knowledge and technology, and organisation of training courses, seminars, conferences and scientific research initiatives.

The memorandum was signed by H E Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, and Dr Erol Ozvar, Chairman of Turkish Higher Education Council.

Key components of the memorandum include collaboration in establishing research and innovation programmes that enhance research capabilities and practical skills for the future labour market. It also aims to promote the development of higher education systems in both countries and investments for innovation and technological advancements.

During the signing ceremony, a discussion was held attended by representatives of various higher education institutions in both countries. This session resulted in several recommendations to activate the MoU, including increasing the number of scholarships, enhancing student exchange programmes, and promoting the teaching of Arabic and Turkish languages.

Additionally, there were recommendations suggesting twinning higher education institutions and organisation of Omani-Turkish Knowledge Dialogue Forum in Muscat involving participation of educational institutions in both countries.

The visit also included bilateral meetings between participating higher education institutions aimed at fostering scientific and academic cooperation.