The Research and Innovation Authority (RIA) will organize the 5th edition of the research skills forum on August 8. A hundred Postgraduate students from various higher education institutions in Oman will participate in the program. The forum will run until 20 August and will provide an opportunity for participants to develop their research skills and knowledge in statistical analysis.
The forum aims to enhance participants’ research competencies, particularly their abilities to analyze large amounts of data. The event will be held under the theme “Advanced Analysis of Statistical Data” to promote research excellence and competitiveness among postgraduate researchers. This year’s forum is an initiative of the Arab Open University.
Participants will receive specialised training on the use of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), one of the world’s most widely used statistical software platforms. The programme also covers methods for importing and processing data collected through electronic questionnaires, enabling researchers to manage large datasets more efficiently. In addition, attendees will explore how artificial intelligence technologies can support advanced statistical analysis and improve research quality.
According to the RIA, the initiative aims to enhance the quality of research outputs while increasing opportunities for postgraduate scholars to publish their work in internationally recognised peer-reviewed journals. The authority also views the forum as part of its broader efforts to develop national research capabilities in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which identifies education, scientific research and innovation as key pillars of sustainable development.
Beyond technical training, the forum will provide a platform for postgraduate students and faculty members to exchange ideas, build professional networks and strengthen collaboration among higher education institutions in the Sultanate. Organisers believe the programme will also help participants develop critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills that are increasingly valued in both academic and professional research environments.
By investing in advanced research training, Oman continues to reinforce its commitment to building a knowledge-based economy and preparing researchers with the skills needed to contribute to scientific progress and national development.
