Page 63 - Faculty Handbook 2021-22

project. The program will get the answer and will tap and capitalize on upcoming ICT graduation
projects. It is aiming to transform at last 1% of best graduation projects into successful ICT startups
to bring socio-economic benefit to Oman.

The Benefits of the program are:
 Steer student graduation projects towards strategic ICT topics of importance to Oman

 Encourage students to select and work on applied projects with socio-economic impact
 Generate a new wave of ICT graduation projects with commercial benefits
 Participate in the challenge for a chance to win

The Seed Fund up to 12,000 OMR will be given to successful projects. The team will also be
offered comprehensive incubation and business development program along with an
International internship in startup development.

14.4.7. Adapting Towards Sustainable Development Program
Aimed at providing policy options and practical policy recommendations that can assist key
economic sectors in the Sultanate move along more sustainable trajectories, the Adapting Towards
Sustainable Development Program addresses development in a holistic manner - integrating the
main pillars of sustainability, economic development, social development, environmental

protection and cultural dimension. Communicating a vision of sustainable development that can be
translated into strategic actions and identifies future research priorities at national level is hereby
at the forefront of the program.
Following key themes are identified for potential research:

 Sustainable agriculture, food security and rural development
 Human resources development

 Education for sustainable development
 Sustainable mountain development
 Sustainable water resource and coastal management

 Sustainable waste management
 Culture and heritage

 Sustainable urban planning
 Sustainable transportation

 Health sector: Options for funding
 Social norms and values
 Eco tourism

 Oil industry

14.4.8. EJAAD
Ejaad is a national initiative that aims to streamline and enhance R&D collaboration between
Oman’s industry and academic sectors in areas of national importance including Oil & Gas,
Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, Conservation of Energy and Water. It is a membership-based
virtual collaborative platform where industry, academia and government can interact and engage

Dhofar University Faculty Handbook (2021-22) Page 59