TLDR: The Oman Research and Education Network Technology Summit (OTS25) commenced on October 20, 2025, focusing on Artificial Intelligence as a key driver for transforming education and scientific research. The two-day event, held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, brings together dignitaries, experts, and innovators to discuss AI integration, foster collaboration, and align with Oman’s national digital transformation goals and Vision 2040. A highlight includes the ‘Gemathon’ hackathon, challenging participants to develop AI-driven digital solutions.
MUSCAT, Oman – The Oman Research and Education Network Technology Summit (OTS25) officially opened its doors on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. The high-profile event, held under the patronage of Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, is set to run for two days, with a central theme emphasizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a transformative force in education and scientific research.
The summit welcomed a distinguished roster of attendees, including Dr. Abdullah bin Sharaf al Ghamdi, President of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), who served as the guest of honour. Also present were various dignitaries, heads of universities and colleges, and international experts, all converging to explore the profound impact of AI.
This year’s OTS25 is strategically aligned with Oman’s national objectives for digital transformation and innovation across critical sectors. It serves as a crucial platform for the exchange of ideas, exploration of new opportunities, and learning from global best practices in leveraging AI technologies. The overarching goal is to inspire innovation, strengthen research collaboration, and provide actionable recommendations to advance Oman’s education and research ecosystem.
Najah bint Mohammed al Rashdiyah, Director-General of the Innovation Centre at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, underscored the ministry’s unwavering commitment to integrating AI. She highlighted its application in curriculum development, analysis of learning outcomes, and applied research, stating, “Collaboration and sustainable partnerships are key to activating national roles across multiple pathways.”
Dr. Al Ghamdi, in his address, shed light on Saudi Arabia’s significant strides in AI. He noted the Kingdom’s global leadership in empowering women in AI, fostering public awareness, driving job growth, and advancing AI model development. He also stressed the critical importance of ethical responsibility alongside technological innovation.
The summit’s comprehensive program features interactive panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and technology exhibitions, all designed to showcase practical AI applications in educational and research contexts. A notable component of OTS25 is the ‘Gemathon’ hackathon. This initiative brings together students, innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers from across Oman in a competitive environment. Their challenge is to formulate innovative digital solutions that contribute to achieving the goals of digital transformation and sustainable development, with a specific focus on four tracks: smart education and learning technologies; research and digital analysis; educational sustainability and inclusiveness; and entrepreneurship and institutional innovation.
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Oman’s own progress under the National AI and Advanced Technologies Programme was presented by Dr. Ali bin Amer al Shaithani, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology. The OTS Summit 2025 ultimately reflects the Sultanate’s commitment to accelerating digital transformation and enhancing investment in AI technologies to serve education and scientific research, in line with the ambitious goals of Oman Vision 2040, which aims to build a diversified economy based on knowledge and innovation.
