Educational Partnership Established Between Dhofar University’s College of Engineering and Vienna Summer University Program
In partnership with Vienna’s Green Building Solutions (GBS) Summer Program, Dhofar University’s College of Engineering enabled engineering student Abdullah bin Ahmed Beit Othman to gain hands-on experience in sustainable architecture. Over a month, Abdullah participated in intensive training focused on eco-friendly building techniques, learning energy-efficient design and carbon reduction strategies through sustainable materials and recycling practices. The program combined theory with practical exposure, including guided bike tours around Vienna, where students examined green architecture projects such as green roofs, natural ventilation, and urban integration for minimal environmental impact. A key experience was Abdullah’s involvement in a collaborative project where he applied passive energy design and lifecycle analysis, working alongside an international group of students and experts. Supervised by Dr. Issam Al-Bahdoor, Dean of the College of Engineering, and Dr. Lamiaa Mostafa, an architectural engineering lecturer, the program underscored Dhofar University’s dedication to fostering global perspectives and sustainability leadership. “Abdullah praised the program as a unique educational and cultural journey, deepening his knowledge of sustainable design and giving him new insights into Vienna’s architectural innovations.” This collaboration highlights Dhofar University’s commitment to preparing its students for a future of sustainable development and innovation.