Musannah – A student-led company from the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Musannah has developed an innovative smart hydroponic system that transforms homes into compact, sustainable farms by integrating plant cultivation with fish farming in a single, self-operating unit.

Malak bint Ghalib Al Salmi, CEO of Blue Root, explained that the system is designed to simplify and modernise home agriculture through advanced technology. “The device continuously monitors both plants and fish through an integrated electronic platform,” she said. “It provides real-time data on key indicators such as temperature and ammonia levels, alongside a 3D visual model, and sends instant alerts whenever any irregular changes occur.”

Malak noted that the project reflects the growing ambition among Omani youth to redefine traditional home gardening by turning it into a fully integrated, technology-driven experience. The company’s business model combines both business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) approaches, targeting individuals, institutions, and customers seeking sustainable solutions that are both functional and visually appealing.

Beyond convenience, the system addresses broader challenges related to food security and environmental sustainability. By simultaneously supporting aquatic and plant life, the device creates a balanced ecosystem that reduces resource consumption while maximising productivity. Its automated features also offer users peace of mind by minimising the need for constant human intervention.

Blue Root has already gained national recognition, showcasing its innovation at the Sustainable Student Companies Exhibition and the Student Companies Forum. The company also secured a place among the top 40 student enterprises in the sultanate in the Injaz Oman competition, highlighting the strength of its concept and execution.

Through this innovation, the team aims to deliver practical, scalable solutions that contribute to environmental protection and promote circular economy principles. The project underscores the increasingly important role of university students in Oman in addressing real-world challenges through creativity and applied research.

As initiatives like Blue Root continue to emerge, they demonstrate how academic institutions are becoming incubators for forward-thinking ideas – transforming student projects into impactful ventures capable of shaping a more sustainable future, the university stated.