Muscat –  The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) on Wednesday signed a memorandum of cooperation with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) to strengthen research and scientific collaboration in meteorites, geological heritage and geopark projects in Oman.

The memorandum was signed by Eng Ibrahim Said al Kharousi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage, and Dr Said Hamad al Rubaii, Vice Chancellor of UTAS.

The agreement seeks to enhance cooperation in the study and analysis of meteorite samples, documentation of Oman’s geological heritage, and the implementation of joint research and applied studies related to geoparks and earth sciences.

It also aims to support educational and training programmes and build national capabilities in specialised fields linked to geological heritage and meteorite research.

Under the memorandum, several specialised initiatives will be introduced to involve academic staff in scientific projects and national programmes related to geological heritage and geoparks.

The collaboration is expected to promote scientific knowledge and strengthen community awareness of the role of research in supporting national development and diversifying the utilisation of natural resources, while highlighting Oman’s rich geological history and natural diversity.

The agreement also provides for educational programmes for university students in geological heritage, awareness visits to geoparks, and the establishment of a permanent exhibition at one of the university’s branches showcasing meteorites discovered in Oman.