Muscat – The Social Protection Fund, in conjunction with the Secretariat General of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), has announced the inaugural Scientific Research Award for Civil Retirement and Social Insurance Institutions for 2023. This pioneering award aims to facilitate research in the spheres of social protection, civil retirement and social insurance in the GCC countries.

The award focuses on addressing key challenges and identifying innovative solutions within the sector, reflecting the evolving socio-economic and political landscape of the Gulf region.

The initiative is designed to bolster the culture of retirement and social insurance, leveraging cutting-edge research methodologies and establishing a platform that harnesses the scientific expertise and energies within the GCC.

A primary objective of the award is to enhance scientific research in social protection areas. It provides a unique opportunity for researchers across the GCC to delve into contemporary issues and challenges linked to social protection systems. The award encourages ongoing research activities and initiatives, enriching knowledge and understanding related to civil retirement and social insurance in the Gulf states.

It also aims to enhance the culture of social insurance in Gulf societies and utilise research outcomes as strategic inputs for various civil retirement agencies and social insurance institutions.

The award covers diverse areas including actuarial science, investments in retirement and insurance systems, laws and legislation, economic risks, and the role of these systems in economic development. It encompasses the quality and evolution of insurance services, supporting strategic planning in these systems, expanding coverage in line with international best practices, and exploring the role of technology and artificial intelligence in system development and governance.

Open to doctoral, master’s and bachelor’s degree holders, as well as university and college students from the GCC, the award also welcomes participation from foreigners residing in the GCC countries. The process begins with the submission of research proposals, followed by a selection phase and a nine-month period for completion of the research. The winners will be announced in the first quarter of 2025.