Wednesday 03 / June / 2026
The University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Al Mussanah will organize the third edition of its Library Forum on Monday, 8 June 2026, under the theme “Open Data and the Future Economy.” The event will bring together academics, researchers, experts, and specialists from various sectors across the Sultanate of Oman.
The forum is being held in alignment with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which emphasizes the development of a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and advanced technologies. It also reflects the university’s commitment to promoting digital transformation and leveraging open data to support scientific research, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making.
The forum aims to explore the future of open data in Oman and its role in advancing national development priorities. It will also raise awareness of the concept and benefits of open data, particularly in enhancing transparency, fostering research collaboration, and supporting innovation and scientific advancement.
A range of topics will be discussed, including data-driven innovation and entrepreneurship, data as a strategic economic resource, open data and digital sovereignty, the role of artificial intelligence in scientific research, access to data during global crises, and the ethical, legal, and security challenges associated with open data environments.
A key highlight of the event will be the launch of “Afaq,” the university’s institutional repository for intellectual output. The platform is designed to preserve and provide access to the university’s academic and research publications in line with international digital archiving practices, promoting open access to knowledge and increasing the visibility of the university’s scholarly contributions.
The forum will also feature accompanying exhibitions with participation from government, academic, and research institutions. It is expected to attract information professionals, academics, researchers, innovation centres, and individuals interested in open data and digital transformation.
The event forms part of the university library’s annual series of scientific forums aimed at advancing knowledge exchange, supporting research and innovation, and strengthening the role of information institutions in community development.
