Muscat – Represented by Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, Oman will host the third General Assembly of International Science Council (ISC) and Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue Forum from January 26 to 30, 2025. The event will take place at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.

This global event aims to bring together a select group of scientists, policymakers and global partners from diverse scientific fields to address critical international challenges and explore future priorities for scientific cooperation.

The event will feature distinguished figures, including Nobel laureates, leading researchers from renowned universities and research centres, as well as influential decision-makers and business leaders.

Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue Forum will be a key public-facing element of ISC’s third General Assembly. It will facilitate cross-disciplinary discussions focused on three central themes – the future of science systems, including emerging technologies like AI and open science; the role of science in driving sustainable environmental and societal transformations; and fostering trust in science while addressing issues of equality and social cohesion.

The dialogue is expected to attract over 500 participants from various scientific fields, including representatives from ISC member countries, senior scientists, researchers, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders from major tech companies and institutions dedicated to scientific innovation.

The ISC General Assembly meets every four years and serves as the highest platform for members and partners to discuss strategic issues and explore new pathways for international scientific collaboration. Past assemblies have addressed urgent global challenges, such as climate change, food security, global health and technological innovation.

The upcoming General Assembly in Muscat will be the first in-person meeting since the ISC’s establishment in July 2018. The first two meetings were held virtually due to global circumstances.

ISC was formed through the merger of International Council for Science (ICSU) and International Social Science Council (ISSC) and now represents over 140 countries. It brings together scientific academies, research councils and international organisations committed to advancing science and utilising it to tackle global challenges and promote societal development.

Oman has been an active member of ISC, contributing significantly to global scientific progress and innovation.