PDO signs research, development pact with Muscat University

Muscat - Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has signed a research and development R&D agreement with Muscat University to help resolve some of its complex technical challenges.

The collaboration deal will support PDO’s effort to boost InCountry Value by advancing academic and vocational development and increasing the share of the oil and gas industry’s wealth retained in Oman, stated a press release.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will also pave the way for students to develop their technical expertise through placements with the company and the university will collaborate on sharing best practice in the area of knowledge management.

The two organisations will also work together to encourage Omani small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurs to carry out their basic technological research, test-proof their conceptual thoughts and innovative ideas and develop earlystage technology in the university’s laboratories prior to any potential future commercial agreements.

PDO will assist with the establishment of a technology cen- tre at the university and its own experts will be given access to these research hubs and run and develop teaching programmes.

The MoU was signed by Professor Yusra Mouzughi, interim vice chancellor of Muscat University, and Amran al Marhubi, PDO’s technical director.

Marhubi said, “PDO is working hard with key research partners to establish hubs of technological expertise in Oman which can help us to address some of our key challenges.

“These collaborations not only give us access to innovative solutions and the best technology and tools but also enable students to learn more about the needs of the sultanate’s economy and their potential employers. This partnership is a win-win for the national oil and gas sector and Omani academia.”

Professor Yusra added, “This agreement reflects Muscat University’s commitment to delivering a high quality educational provision that is research informed and industry led.

“Having close links with in- dustry ensures the relevance of our programmes and the longterm employability of our graduates and makes a positive contribution to meeting some of the key challenges faced by industry. Further, this agreement forms the beginning of developing a greater understanding of how knowledge management can help make gains and efficiencies in the oil and gas sector.”

The MoU will run for three years and also pave the way for PDO staff to enrol for BSc, MSc and PhD courses at the varsity.