Sohar Aluminium and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Sohar have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support the equipping of the university's Advanced Technology Laboratory. The signing ceremony took place under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Said bin Hamad Al Rubaie, President of UTAS.
Under the agreement, Sohar Aluminium will finance the procurement of technical equipment and devices to enhance the Advanced Technology Laboratory at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Sohar. The lab will have a smart interactive whiteboard, fully integrated computers featuring the latest systems, and additional laboratory equipment and facilities.
The Advanced Technology Lab is dedicated to fostering innovation and research in key areas, including hybrid cloud, virtual reality, blockchain technology, and data science. It aims to provide students, researchers, academics, and industry professionals with access to state-of-the-art facilities and specialised initiatives, encouraging the exploration and application of these cutting-edge technologies.
The lab will offer its beneficiaries a wide range of services, including workshops and training courses for students and researchers, mentorship programs, and opportunities to participate in research projects. It will also host hackathons, competitions, exhibitions, and specialised technology seminars. Additionally, the lab will feature a business incubator to support start-up companies, conduct advanced training programs, and provide consulting services for sectors looking to adopt and integrate advanced technologies.
Representing Sohar Aluminium, Jameel bin Mohammed Shakil, Director of Communications and Social Responsibility, signed the agreement. On behalf of UTAS, the MoU was signed by the Honorable Dr. Hanifa bint Ahmed bin Ali Al Qasimi, Assistant Vice Chancellor of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Sohar.
Al Kharousi added, " This project comes as part of the company's efforts to support the education and scientific research sector and build national capabilities, which is one of the main priorities of Oman Vision 2040, which is also targeted by the company's social responsibility strategy through its various initiatives and projects."
After the agreement signing, the General Manager of Human Resources and Corporate Affairs at Sohar Aluminium highlighted that the company's support for equipping the Advanced Technology Laboratory reflects its commitment to the vital role of technology and education in fostering a sustainable future. He emphasised Sohar Aluminium's dedication to empowering young talent with the tools needed to drive innovation and progress by providing future generations and researchers with access to the latest technologies and skills.
For her part, the Honorable Assistant Vice Chancellor of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Sohar added, "This agreement embodies the university's commitment to enhancing the environment for scientific research and innovation by providing the latest equipment and technologies that keep pace with scientific and industrial developments. Sohar Aluminium's support for this project is a model of fruitful cooperation between academic institutions and the private sector. We look forward to this laboratory contributing to refining the skills of students and academics according to the requirements of the modern labor market , and to being a qualitative addition to keeping pace with Oman Vision 2040 in developing the university's outputs."
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