OAPGRC signs MoU with University of Nizwa

MUSCAT: The Oman Animal Plant & Genetic Resources Center (OAPGRC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with University of Nizwa (UoN) for a joint collaboration on the commercial development of Oman’s animal, plant, marine and genetic resources and on agribusiness in particular.

The commerciallyfocused scientific partnership will be led by Dr Nadiya al Saady, OAPGRC’s Executive Director and Prof Ahmed al Harrasi, Vice Chancellor for Research, Graduate Studies and External Relations, University of Nizwa.

Teams of researchers and scientists from OAPGRC and University of Nizwa will work together to preserve and foster the sustainable use of Oman’s agricultural genetic resources, work that is vital to develop and support local agricultural businesses, especially in the light of climate change and evolving plant and animal diseases.

“There’s never been a more exciting time to be a scientist — our combined research efforts will, I believe, have a real impact on Oman’s agribusinesses, solving many of the everyday challenges they face with breeding and raising livestock and with sustainable crop production. It’ll be thrilling to see the results of our joint research translated into much-needed and long-term solutions”, said Prof Ahmed al Rawahi, Chancellor (UoN) after signing the MoU.

“There’s no doubt” added Dr Al Saady, “that over the next few years our partnership with UoN will be of significant value. Indeed, I’m confident that the scientific collaboration between OAPGRC and UoN can help move the economic development wheel for the whole of Oman as well as contribute to the Sultanate’s food security.