Muscat:The Arab Innovators and Talents Conference concluded its proceedings at the Arab Open University in Oman with a recommendation to launch a joint Arab strategic project focused on producing artificial intelligence technologies. The conference also suggested initiatives for digital autonomy, the establishment of an Arab network for innovators and researchers, and the launch of the 'Arab Open Challenges Registry' initiative.
According to Oman News Agency, the conference emphasized the importance of enhancing Arab integration in areas such as energy, water, food, environment, and health. It also stressed the protection of intellectual property through an Arab intellectual property mentoring program named 'Patent Clinics.'
The event was organized by the Research and Innovation Authority in collaboration with the Oman National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, and the Arab Open University in coordination with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO). The conference outcomes highlighted the need to advance Arab innovation from idea generation to practical application by forming sustainable partnerships and investing in young Arab talent to transform their creativity into projects that contribute to sustainable development and improve quality of life in the region.
Participants advocated for a joint initiative to develop agrivoltaic solutions, an Arab network for testing and developing local building materials, and strengthening the incubator system to ensure innovations are converted into practical applications.
During the closing ceremony, the winning projects from the poster exhibition and invention and innovation structures competition were announced. Dr. Abdulrazzaq Mahfouz from Algeria won first place, followed by Samia Al Riyami from Oman in second place, and Youssef Wirzgan from Morocco in third place. Other winners included Sara Sufyan Guirat from Tunisia, Sultan Al Busaidi from Oman, Dr. Kawthar Ali from Kuwait, and Dr. Heba Al Hamed from Syria.
The judging committee evaluated projects based on originality, feasibility, impact, and sustainability from a technical and technological perspective, as well as the quality of poster design, presentation, and communication skills. The projects were categorized into themes such as renewable energy and green hydrogen, food security and smart agriculture, medical and biological technology, water and environmental technologies, and green and sustainable architecture.
More than 90 participants, including 22 innovators from outside Oman, attended the three-day conference held under the slogan 'Inspiring Innovation.. Prosperous Development,' along with a select group of experts and specialists.
