Al musannah: The "Open Data and Future Economy" Forum, held under the theme "Knowledge - Innovation - Sustainability," emphasized the importance of promoting the culture of open data and expanding the scope of its utilization to support scientific research, innovation, and decision-making, alongside enhancing cooperation among institutions and building national capacities in the fields of data analysis and modern technologies.

According to Oman News Agency, the forum was organized by the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Al Musannah under the auspices of Dr. Said Hamad Al Rubaii, Vice Chancellor of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences. The event was attended by a group of academics, researchers, experts, and decision-makers, alongside representatives from government and private institutions.

The organization of the forum is part of the university's efforts to consolidate the culture of open data and explore its future in the Sultanate of Oman. This initiative aims to align with the targets of Oman Vision 2040, contributing to supporting scientific research, innovation, digital transformation, and enhancing the employment of data as a strategic resource for sustainable development and knowledge-based decision-making.

The forum also witnessed the launch of the "Afaq" platform, aimed at preserving and making available the scientific and academic output of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences. This platform is designed to enhance open access to knowledge and support the scientific research and innovation ecosystem through the latest digital practices.

A keynote address titled "Open Data and the Future Economy: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Strategic and Scientific Transformations in the Digital Age" was delivered during the forum. The address highlighted the strategic and scientific dimensions of open data and its impact on supporting development and keeping pace with rapid digital transformations.