Sultan Qaboos University and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority have signed a cooperation programme to support the UNESCO Chair in Artificial Intelligence. The agreement was signed on behalf of the University by Prof. Amer bin Saif Al-Hinai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Research, and on behalf of the Authority by Sheikh Omar bin Abdullah Al-Qatabi, Deputy Chairman for the Telecommunications Regulatory Sector.

This agreement underscores the Authority’s role in supporting scientific research and technological development in the Sultanate of Oman, through funding research and initiatives that contribute to digital advancement and enhance the country’s position in the Global Artificial Intelligence Index. This index evaluates countries based on their governmental strategies, infrastructure, and research capabilities, where Oman ranked seventh in the Arab region and 64th globally according to the 2024 annual report.

The programme aims to achieve several objectives, including: promoting scientific research in AI; supporting publications in peer-reviewed journals to enhance Oman’s global ranking in the field; enabling the Authority to utilise research outcomes to inform AI policy development in the telecommunications sector; advancing technological progress through support for applied AI research; and strengthening the institutional reputation of both SQU and TRA through participation in internationally impactful research projects. Additionally, the programme seeks to develop national competencies in AI through research, training, and international collaboration, as well as to implement joint awareness initiatives on AI and its societal impact.

It is noteworthy that the establishment of the UNESCO Chair in Artificial Intelligence at SQU in March 2024 was guided by national directives emphasised by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to promote the digital economy and the adoption of AI technologies as a cornerstone for economic and social development.