Muscat – An Omani intern doctor has won the Best Oral Presentation Award at the International Conference of Surgery and Innovation (ICSI), held in Romania from April 24 to 26.

Dr Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Abdulmajeed Al Lawati, from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Sultan Qaboos University, secured the recognition for his research on perceptions of robotic surgery among medical students in Oman.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Dr Lawati said the award was particularly meaningful given the scale and international profile of the conference. “Such recognition motivates young doctors to continue contributing to scientific and clinical advancement despite the demands of academic and medical training,” he said.

The inaugural conference brought together surgeons, researchers, medical students and early-career doctors from across the world. It featured speakers from leading institutions in countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, India, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Oman, focusing on surgical innovation, emerging technologies, research presentations, hands-on workshops and professional networking.

Dr Lawati’s study, titled ‘Surgical Innovation and Robotic Surgery: A Cross-Sectional Study on Medical Students’ Attitudes Toward Robotic Surgery in Oman’, surveyed 519 students at Sultan Qaboos University. It examined their awareness, knowledge and perceptions of robotic-assisted procedures at a time when the technology is expanding globally and gradually being introduced into Oman’s healthcare system.

The findings showed that 71.5% of respondents were aware of robotic surgery, while 87.3% reported limited knowledge. Strong support was recorded for greater academic integration, with 81.3% favouring its inclusion in undergraduate curricula, 88.2% supporting its incorporation into residency programmes, and 88.6% backing national investment in the field.

Dr Lawati encouraged young Omanis to seize opportunities and take initiative. “Progress begins with the courage to step beyond one’s comfort zone,” he said.

An active researcher, Dr Lawati has authored more than 40 scientific publications and received several local and international awards, including recognitions in Canada, Bulgaria, India and Poland. He has also mentored around 50 students and junior doctors in Oman and abroad – including in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Bahrain – many of whom have achieved their first research publications under his supervision.