Symposium reviews efforts to support publishing of scientific research in Oman

Muscat: Acting in cooperation with Gulf College, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation today organised a symposium in Muscat to review efforts being made to support the publishing of scientific research in the Sultanate of Oman.

The symposium aimed to identify a platform codenamed “Shuaa” or Beam, research repository that serves as an open source for scientific product in the Sultanate of Oman. The platform provides methods for establishing a professional scientific journal, indcators of scientific publishing and opportunities and challenges facing the promotion of scientific publishing in Oman.

The symposium was held under the auspices of Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, who delivered a speech in which she stressed the importance of supporting academic research in Oman. She underscored the significance of the symposium which, she noted, addressed major issues that influence the future of research in our country.

“Our researchers need guidance to navigate the landscape of journals and citations and overcome the existing challenges,” said Dr. Rahma.

The minister also highlighted the importance of developing local peer-reviewed scientific journals within the framework of a platform that specializes in Omani research and enhances academic dialogue. “Such efforts will not only raise the status of Omani research, but also help achieve a tangible positive impact on society and the economy,” she added.

The symposium included eight sessions that dealt with the following objectives:

· Outlining the Ministry’s scientific publishing support programme;

· Understanding the quality of scientific journals;

· Achieving higher rankings in research endeavours;

· Establishing a streamlined research repository;

· Highlighting research that targets the realization of economic value;

· Publishing peer-reviewed scientific journals based in academic institutions.

· Using QS classification and the Global Innovation Index; and

· Analysing feedback on research conducted at universities (focusing on the challenges and opportunities).