The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation in Oman inaugurated the Gimathon hackathon on Sunday, bringing together 105 innovators from various academic and research institutions across the country. Participants, organized into 21 teams, will collaborate over three days to devise solutions addressing pressing national technology challenges in the realms of education, research, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
The Gimathon serves as a national platform designed to connect students, researchers, and entrepreneurs, fostering a competitive atmosphere that encourages the development of digital solutions. This initiative aims to propel Oman”s digital transformation and align with the nation”s sustainable development objectives.
Muneer bin Nasser al Battashi, Director of the Oman Research and Education Network (OMREN), emphasized that the hackathon is a highlight of this year”s Oman Research, Education and Technology Summit, which is set to commence on Monday under the theme “Artificial Intelligence as a Driving Force for Scientific Research and Education.” He pointed out that Gimathon transcends mere competition, offering a creative space where young minds can leverage emerging technologies to enhance educational and research initiatives.
Participants are focusing on technology-driven projects that explore areas such as smart learning, digital research analysis, educational inclusivity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. The specific challenges tackled during the hackathon were identified in collaboration with government entities to ensure that the solutions developed are relevant to the actual needs of the nation.
The opening day featured an orientation session, various workshops, and activities aimed at generating ideas, along with guided tours of an exhibition that showcased national innovations and emerging technologies. In the following two days, attendees will engage in training sessions and receive feedback from experts, culminating in presentations of their projects to a panel of judges during the closing ceremony.
The results of the Gimathon are anticipated to bolster Oman”s efforts in digital transformation and enhance cooperation among higher education institutions, public sector agencies, and private companies, in alignment with the National Strategy for Scientific Research and Innovation.
