In line with Omantel’s vision to transition from a telecommunications and information services provider to a technology company specializing in integrated digital solutions, with artificial intelligence (AI) being a key pillar, Omantel has signed an agreement with Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) to support the UNESCO Chair in AI.
This partnership reaffirms Omantel’s commitment to advancing AI technologies and empowering society through research and innovation in emerging technologies that address today’s global challenges. The agreement falls within the existing collaboration between Omantel and Sultan Qaboos University, as well as Omantel’s broader initiatives aimed at supporting scientific research and development in Sultanate of Oman, particularly in the field of AI.
The agreement seeks to build national capabilities by funding postgraduate scholarships and hiring postdoctoral researchers in AI-related fields. It also aims to enhance awareness and understanding of AI through awareness campaigns, seminars, and events.
Commenting on the agreement, Qais Mohammed Al Amri, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at Omantel, stated: "At Omantel, we are committed to enabling Oman’s digital transformation through various initiatives that go beyond providing solutions and technologies. A key focus is on developing national capabilities in modern technologies. Our partnership with Sultan Qaboos University has yielded significant achievements in the past, and we are confident that this initiative will further strengthen our collaboration and support researchers in conducting more AI-related studies. This field is crucial for Oman’s progress, and we believe the outcomes will contribute to enhancing efficiency, productivity, and economic growth."
Prof. Abdulnasir Hussain, Chairholder of the UNESCO Chair in AI at Sultan Qaboos University, added: "We highly value our partnership with Omantel and appreciate the company’s contribution to funding research, particularly in advanced technologies such as AI. We hope that Omantel’s support will help the government achieve the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and improve the country’s ranking in the UNESCO University-Industry Research Collaboration Index. Additionally, this support will enhance the Chair’s activities across various domains, strengthen international collaboration in research, and contribute to Oman’s global standing in AI."
It is worth noting that the UNESCO Chair in AI focuses on AI applications in education, industry, healthcare, and the economy, while ensuring ethical AI practices. The Chair’s approach includes studying and designing AI algorithms and computer systems to enhance education (teaching and learning), improve product quality, and advance healthcare services.
Omantel has succeeded, through the integration of its operations, processes, and extensive expertise in the field of communications and digital technology, in establishing its position as a leading telecommunications company within the Sultanate of Oman and beyond. The company's innovative approaches have contributed to providing state-of-the-art solutions to different consumer and business sectors. The company aims to deliver an unparalleled, exceptional experience to its customers and strives always to exceed their expectations. To achieve the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, Omantel invests in emerging technologies and provides cutting-edge ICT solutions, such as cloud solutions, AI, Smart solutions, cybersecurity, and much more, in addition to harnessing its technological capabilities to enhance innovation and leadership in new and advanced technologies
Source: Press Release