Muscat – Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) marked the 25th anniversary of the University Day with the announcement of the 2025 Royal Grant for Strategic Research Projects. The event, held under the patronage of H E Sultan bin Salim al Habsi, Minister of Finance, honoured ten research initiatives spanning artificial intelligence, renewable energy, healthcare, and cultural studies.

Among the recipients were Prof Dr Aisha bint Salem al Harthi, recognised for her work on social innovation in Omani learning cities; Dr Jalila bint Saeed al Shukaili, who is developing newborn screening for immunological disorders; and Prof Dr Tasneem Pervez, focused on solar cells using locally sourced polymers.

Other researchers awarded include Dr Malik bin Mohammed al Wardi for an AI-driven drought prediction model, Dr Rashid bin Salem al Hajri for green hydrogen production and Dr Amira bint Khamis al Amri for her study on the socioeconomic costs of road traffic accidents.

Projects on carbon capture, digital archiving of Omani heritage, and national identity also received the grant.

Speaking at the event, Dr Amer bin Saif al Hinai, Vice Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Scientific Research, said, “We wanted this to be more than a celebration – a chance to consolidate SQU’s research achievements that have strengthened Oman’s regional and international presence in science and innovation.”

Dr Ghazi bin Ali al Rawas, Dean of Scientific Research, noted that the Royal Grant has supported nearly 4,500 projects with over RO78mn in funding. He credited the continued support of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for driving Oman’s research-led development.

The anniversary also included the International Conference on Scientific Research and Sustainability, which focused on sustainable funding and partnerships. An exhibition showcased SQU’s research milestones and tools supporting scientific publishing and sustainability.