Sultan Qaboos University welcomed a delegation from the University of Oregon, led by Prof. Dennis C. Galvan, Dean and Vice Provost for Global Engagement, and Prof. Eleanor Vandegrift, Assistant Vice Provost for Global Partnerships.

The delegation was received by Prof. Salim bin Hamoud Al-Harthi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Services. The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen international academic partnerships and explore areas of mutual interest.

During the meeting, a brief overview of SQU was presented, highlighting its establishment in 1986, academic colleges, deanships, research centres, facilities, and recent international rankings. Discussions then focused on potential avenues for collaboration between the two institutions.

From SQU’s side, Prof. Al-Harthi expressed the University’s strong interest in developing partnerships with the University of Oregon, particularly in contemporary and strategic fields such as AI, cybersecurity, emerging technologies, and interdisciplinary research. He also emphasised SQU’s integrated approach to education, which combines technology, culture, values, and student engagement beyond the classroom through internships, sports, cultural activities, and entrepreneurship initiatives. These activities aim to develop leadership, teamwork, and professional skills among students.

The University of Oregon delegation expressed keen interest in broad collaboration, including student exchange, postgraduate recruitment, joint research, and academic networking. Areas of potential cooperation discussed included marine sciences, bioengineering, materials science, cybersecurity, earth sciences, and the arts and humanities. Opportunities for professional development for academic staff and participation in global academic and research networks were also highlighted.

Both sides emphasised the value of international exposure for students and academics, noting Oman’s unique geographic position and cultural openness as an ideal environment for multicultural learning and research, particularly in fields such as earth sciences.

The visit concluded with a shared commitment to pursue structured collaboration that supports academic excellence, global engagement, and the development of future-ready graduates.