This landmark collaboration is built on a shared vision: advancing knowledge, nurturing innovation, and preparing students for a globally connected world.

Through this MoU, both institutions will work together on:

• Joint academic initiatives that promote research and innovation

• Student and faculty exchange programmes to broaden perspectives

• Cross-border entrepreneurship and internship opportunities

• Career development platforms to boost employability and industry readiness

At MEC, we believe in empowering our students through meaningful global engagements. This partnership with PMU adds to our growing network of international collaborations—opening doors for our community to learn, grow, and lead on a global stage.

Together, we’re shaping future leaders by connecting talent, ideas, and opportunities across the region.

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As one of the region’s leading tech conferences, Web Summit Qatar brought together innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the globe. For our students, it was more than just an event—it was a gateway to explore breakthrough technologies, connect with startup ecosystems, and engage with world-class thought leaders shaping the digital future.

This experience reflects MEC’s ongoing commitment to:
Immersive learning beyond the classroom
Fostering entrepreneurial mindsets
Building global exposure for our students

By participating in high-impact platforms like Web Summit, our students gain real-world insights, sharpen their industry understanding, and broaden their professional networks—essential steps in becoming enterprising, resilient, and impactful contributors to the world of work.

We are proud to support such transformative journeys and will continue investing in opportunities that elevate our students’ academic and professional potential.

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Imagine a world where education isn’t just about absorbing facts, igniting curiosity, fostering innovation, and nurturing a dynamic entrepreneurial mindset. Welcome to the future of learning, where the fusion of startup culture and education revolutionises how students engage, explore, and excel.

In this new era, students are not just passive recipients of information; they are active participants in their learning journeys. This transformative approach empowers them to think boldly, embrace challenges, and develop the entrepreneurial skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. Integrating startup culture into education creates an environment where innovation, creativity, and exploration are at the forefront, preparing students for success in their academic and professional lives.

Key elements of Startup Culture in Education

1. Empowerment and Innovation – Picture a classroom buzzing with excitement, where students are the architects of their own learning journey. Startup culture thrives on empowerment and innovation, and when these principles are woven into the fabric of education, magic happens. Educators craft environments where flexibility, collaboration, and student choice are the norm. This atmosphere of innovation inspires students to think boldly and embrace entrepreneurial ideas that could change the world.
2. Collaboration and Communication – In the vibrant world of startups, collaboration is the lifeblood of success. Modern communication tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams bring this spirit into the classroom, enabling students to collaborate seamlessly on projects. Imagine students from different disciplines coming together, sharing ideas, and creating solutions that are greater than the sum of their parts. This cross-pollination of perspectives fuels creativity and fosters a deeper understanding of diverse subjects.
3. Embracing Failure and Learning – In the realm of startups, failure isn’t a setback; it’s a stepping stone to success. Educational institutions that embrace this mindset encourage students to learn from their mistakes through post-mortem analyses and hands-on projects. Think of students experimenting with business concepts, receiving feedback, and iterating on their ideas. This process builds resilience and offers invaluable lessons in perseverance and problem-solving.
4. Diverse Learning Resources – Startup culture thrives on diversity and adaptability. By incorporating a wide range of learning resources—workshops, online courses, hands-on experiences—education becomes a personalized adventure. Students can explore their passions at their own pace, drawing from a rich tapestry of materials that cater to different learning styles and interests.
5. Mentorship and Coaching – Imagine a world where every student has a mentor guiding them, offering wisdom and support. Just as startups rely on seasoned advisors, educational settings benefit from mentorship programs that pair students with teachers, industry professionals, and peers. This nurturing environment accelerates growth, cultivates entrepreneurial skills, and provides a safety net for students to explore and innovate.
6. Experiential Learning – Bridging the gap between theory and practice, experiential learning immerses students in the entrepreneurial process. Real-world business projects allow students to apply theoretical concepts in practical situations, gaining firsthand experience in navigating challenges and embracing opportunities. This hands-on approach not only enhances their understanding but equips them with skills to thrive in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship.

Impact on Educational Institutions

• Alignment with community needs – Higher education institutions are embracing their “third mission” of community engagement, addressing economic, social, and environmental issues for the benefit of society. Universities are becoming hubs of innovation, with programs designed to foster community engagement and drive societal advancement. This shift underscores the crucial role of education in shaping a better future.
• University-Industry Partnerships – As technology continues to evolve at lightning speed, educational institutions are forming partnerships with industry leaders. These collaborations bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application, providing students with cutting-edge technologies and insights. The result? Students who are well-prepared to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape and drive technological innovation.
• Curriculum development challenges – Integrating entrepreneurship into education isn’t without its challenges. Educators must balance traditional academic content with contemporary subjects like digital literacy and social-emotional learning. This balancing act is essential for creating relevant, adaptable programs that meet the diverse needs of students and society. Curriculum design must continually evolve to keep pace with technological advancements and educational goals.
• Promoting a culture of innovation – Entrepreneurship in education isn’t just about theory; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation. Through hands-on experiences like business plan development and startup incubators, students immerse themselves in practical learning environments. These experiences ignite their entrepreneurial spirit and prepare them to tackle real-world challenges. Institutions that prioritize experiential learning contribute to a vibrant ecosystem of innovation that benefits both academia and society.

In conclusion, the integration of startup culture into education is a transformative journey. By establishing mentorship programs, promoting community engagement, and developing industry partnerships, educational institutions are enhancing the relevance and impact of their offerings. As this movement continues to evolve, the interplay between startup culture and modern education promises to reshape the landscape of learning and entrepreneurship for future generations. Get ready to embark on this exciting adventure where innovation, empowerment, and creativity know no bounds.

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Oman’s strategic shift towards renewables

Oman’s shift towards renewable energy is not merely a choice but a necessity. As global energy dynamics evolve and the effects of climate change become increasingly apparent, Oman recognises the urgency of embracing sustainable energy practices. This transition aligns with the nation’s Vision 2040, which emphasises sustainability and economic diversification, reducing reliance on oil and gas revenues.

The strategic location of Oman, blessed with an abundance of solar and wind resources, positions it uniquely to harness these renewable energies effectively. The average solar exposure in the region, one of the highest globally, along with favourable wind conditions in the southern parts of the country, presents a compelling case for investing in these clean energy sources.

Highlighting recent projects: a leap towards hydrogen

Among the recent initiatives, Oman has embarked on ambitious projects to harness green hydrogen. The ‘Hydrom’ project, worth $11 billion, aims to produce 1.38 million tonnes of green hydrogen per year by 2030, positioning Oman as a key player in the global green hydrogen market. Additionally, another set of projects, valued at $20 billion, involves consortia including international giants like BP and Actis, which will contribute significantly to Oman’s green hydrogen production capacity. These projects reflect Oman’s strategic initiatives to not only meet its own energy needs sustainably but also to become a leading exporter of green hydrogen.

Economic and environmental benefits

The economic benefits of shifting towards renewable energy in Oman are manifold. Firstly, it offers the potential to reduce energy costs in the long term, a significant advantage for both the government and the consumers. Secondly, developing renewable energy infrastructure can create numerous jobs, stimulating economic growth and providing new opportunities for local communities.

From an environmental perspective, renewable energy presents an effective solution to reduce carbon emissions. Oman’s commitment to lowering its carbon footprint can significantly contribute to global efforts against climate change, fostering a healthier environment for future generations.

Enhancing energy security

Diversifying energy sources enhances Oman’s energy security, reducing its vulnerability to oil price fluctuations and ensuring a steady energy supply for its growing population and expanding industries. Renewable energy, with its inherent scalability and sustainability, can provide a reliable alternative to traditional fuels, promoting energy independence.

Oman’s commitment to a carbon-neutral future

Oman’s determination to transition towards renewable energies is also mirrored in its commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. This ambitious target is a testament to Oman’s proactive approach to global climate action, positioning the Sultanate as a leader in energy sustainability and green technology in the region.

Oman’s journey towards a renewable energy future is not just a strategic economic move; it is a commitment to preserving its natural heritage and ensuring a sustainable lifestyle for its residents. By investing in renewable energies, Oman is not only addressing its immediate economic and environmental needs but is also setting a standard for the region, demonstrating how tradition and innovation can coexist harmoniously.

This progressive shift towards renewable energy underscores Oman’s role as a visionary leader in the Middle East, ready to embrace the challenges of the 21st century while ensuring the prosperity and well-being of its people. As the world watches, Oman is poised to transform its energy landscape, ensuring that its rich history and modern aspirations converge in a sustainable and vibrant future.

This revised blog now includes Oman’s 2050 net zero carbon emission target, providing a complete view of its long-term environmental strategies and renewable energy commitments.

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In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and education is not just a future possibility; it is imminent. – World Economic Forum

At Middle East College, we recognise that the future belongs to those who can seamlessly blend advanced technology with human ingenuity and critical thinking. MEC’s innovative MECFuture platform utilises cutting-edge technology to revolutionise education and prepare the next generation for the ever-evolving dynamic world of work.

The transformative power of AI in education

AI has changed the way we approach education. It’s no longer just about delivering information; it’s about personalising the learning experience to fit each student’s unique needs. AI technologies enable us to offer tailored learning pathways, real-time feedback, and predictive analytics that enhance both teaching and learning.

At MEC, we recognise that the skills required in the workplace are constantly changing. Traditional educational methods aren’t enough to prepare students for the inevitable challenges they will face. In response to this, we are leveraging AI to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, ensuring our students are not only career-ready but also future-proof.

How MECFuture is leading the charge?

Our innovative platform, MECFuture, aims to revolutionise higher education by integrating AI into every aspect. Take a look at how MEC is making a difference:

Personalised learning experiences

AI-powered platforms analyse individual learning styles and performance data to tailor educational content. This customisation ensures that each student receives the support they need to excel, whether it’s through adaptive coursework, targeted exercises, or additional resources.

Promoting learner autonomy

MECFuture promotes learner autonomy by enabling students to take greater control of their learning for life. The platform uses AI to allow educators to focus more on mentorship and personalised instruction.

Real-time feedback and support

With AI tools, our students receive timely feedback on their learning. This instant response helps them identify strengths and areas for improvement quickly, allowing for a more responsive and iterative learning process.

Career-readiness driven by industry demands

Using the power of AI, MECFuture provides students with insights into industry trends, job market demands, and skill requirements from day one. These empowers students to align their academic interests with their professional aspirations.

Collaborative learning environments

AI facilitates collaborative projects and simulations that mirror real-world scenarios. These interactive experiences help students develop teamwork and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for success in the new world of work.

Preparing students for a future driven by AI

At Middle East College, we believe that embracing AI is not just about keeping up with technological advancements; it’s about leading the way in preparing our students for a future where AI and human skills will be inextricably linked. By integrating AI into our educational practices, MECFuture is equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to thrive in an ever-changing job market.

Click here to see it in action

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In today’s digitally interconnected era, the imperative of robust cyber security is more pronounced than ever, especially in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, including Oman.

The escalating cyber threat landscape in Oman and the GCC

GCC countries stand at the crossroads of a digital revolution. From smart cities to booming e-commerce, our economies are increasingly built on interconnected networks. But with great advancements come heightened risks: the invisible threat of cybercrime.

The threat landscape is evolving rapidly. A whopping number of three million attempted cyberattacks in the Sultanate of Oman were thwarted in 2022, according to an annual cyber security report.

The report revealed a significant 55 per cent increase in global threat detections and a massive 242 per cent surge in blocked malicious files in the same year (Oman Observer). These attacks target not just individuals but the very heart of a nation’s critical infrastructure: energy grids, financial systems, and government networks. Cyberattacks can trigger economic havoc, disrupt vital services, and erode public trust. The 2021 attack on Aramco,Saudi Arabia’s national oil company, exposed the potential for regional destabilisation. The GCC’s growing dependence on digital technologies like cloud computing and IoT further necessitates sophisticated cyber security measures.

Taking a Proactive Stance

Recognising the gravity of the situation, the GCC has been proactive in bolstering its cyber defences. Oman ranked third best prepared in the world to thwart cyberattacks by the International Telecommunication Union, is a regional leader(ITU). Saudi Arabia was ranked second in the 2022 World Competitiveness Yearbook cybersecurity index. Initiatives like establishing the GCC Cybersecurity Ministerial Committee(SPA)showcase GCC’s resilience-building commitment.

The fight against cybercrime requires an army of skilled professionals on the frontlines, the digital soldiers safeguarding our interconnected world. The regional demand for cyber security professionals is robust. As per ISACA’s State of Cyber security report, professionals with a blend of technical and soft skills are highly sought after. The region’s cyber security market is anticipated to grow at a 5.90% CAGR from 2023 to 2028, fuelled by increasing cyber threats and massive digital transformation.

Middle East College’s MSc Cyber Security programme: A timely endeavour

In response to this burgeoning need, Middle East College, in collaboration with جامعة كوفنتري, UK, has introduced the MSc Cyber Security programme. This programme prepares students for the dynamic and evolving challenges in cyber security, equipping them with practical skills and comprehensive knowledge. It is worth noting that MEC already offers an Undergraduate Engineering programme, B.Eng. (Hons) in Computer Engineering (Cybersecurity), to prepare young cybersecurity professionals.

The criticality of cyber security in Oman and the broader GCC region cannot be overstated. Educational initiatives like the undergraduate and postgraduate Cyber Security programmes at Middle East College are timely and crucial in preparing the next generation of cybersecurity experts. As they say, investing in cyber security is investing in our future.

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The Future-Tech agenda was packed with insightful sessions, starting with the keynote address, “Emerging Trends in Technology and Future Directions – Lead the 4th Dimension,” by Dr Nizar Al Bassam, which captivated the attendees with visions of a technologically advanced future.

The event progressed with a series of technical talks. The first talk delved into “IoT Innovations: Shaping the Future of Technology,” by Dr Abdul Wahid Mir from Petroleum Marketing Company, discussing the Internet of Things and its transformative potential.

The following session by Eng. Firas Al Muharrami from Omantel, explored AI and machine learning with “From data to decisions: unravelling the essence of AI and machine learning in today’s world.”

The next talk by Eng. Adith Haridas from Securado, focused , on cybersecurity. The third technical talk, “Zero Trust: Rethinking Security in a Hyperconnected World,” emphasised the importance of robust security frameworks in today’s digital landscape.

The next talk, “Unleash the Beast! How Technology has Always Changed the World,” by Mr. Andrew Blackie, looked retrospectively at technology’s evolutionary impact on society.

The highlight of the colloquium was the panel discussion at noon. Industry experts engaged in a dynamic exchange on various tech-related topics, offering diverse perspectives and foresight.

In the final session, the event turned towards personal well-being with a talk on “Cultivating Well-Being in a Digital Era,” by Ms. Maisa Al Ajmi, a Co-active Coach, discussing the balance between technology usage and mental health.

The 1st MEC Future-Tech Colloquium was not just an event; it was a testament to MEC’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological education and discourse. This landmark event has established a platform for ongoing dialogue on technology and innovation, promising to cultivate a tech-savvy future generation.

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The concept of innovation in the civil engineering discipline broadly covers using new technologies, materials, software, and processes that aim to improve the built environment with less effort and time. The London Millennium Bridge is an excellent example of design innovation. It utilized lightweight materials in its construction with the concept of lateral load suspension in its engineering, which allowed for the avoidance of large/tall pillars to support and suspend the bridge. However, when it opened in early 2000, it faced an issue of lateral movement. The movement of pedestrians over the bridge caused lateral oscillation, which must not have been accounted for during the design, even though all other engineering parameters had been designed to the acceptable codes and standards. It is one of those projects and structures which can signify how innovation can bring technical challenges either during or after the structure has been built.

In this blog, I will share my perspective on how civil engineers can understand innovation in design. I will also consider the consequences and expected challenges in their implementation.

Various areas of innovation

Current innovation in civil engineering focuses on several areas, including but not limited to:

1. Use of Artificial Intelligence and engineering software to aid in design.
2. Use of new or emerging construction materials and technologies.
3. Development of building monitoring systems and smart infrastructure.

Artificial Intelligence is one of those areas that will help engineers design in many ways. For one, it can help reduce errors in civil structure design and their relevant calculations. Such systems can also learn from repetitive use and develop economic design. Similarly, for civil structures facing dynamic loading where they are needed to be constructed, such as marine environments, offshore platforms, and jetty structures, AI systems can provide better prediction of the behaviour of seawater and tidal waves in order to optimize the design of the structures.

New materials in construction are evolving and being developed at a somewhat slow pace in civil engineering compared to other engineering disciplines. There could be a lot of reasons for this, however, it’s not the scope of the essay to cover that. Currently, a lot of focus is on improving quality or reducing manhours to achieve economy in design and construction.

For example, the use of hybrid or modular construction materials is a leading industry trend that, although having a lot of advantages in terms of time/schedule saving and quality improvements, can still have technical design challenges, especially in terms of coordination and finalization of all cross-discipline inputs. These become one of the more prominent drawbacks of such systems when a decision is made to utilize them in a project.

On the other hand, new materials such as geosynthetic cementitious composites are supporting industries such as oil and gas and remote construction infrastructure projects, especially in the design of stormwater ditches and their lining, and the stabilization of large cut and fill faces of soil and rock. Engineers need to decide on the suitability of the use of such composites due to their drawbacks, such as low compressive, flexural, and shear strength, joint detailing, and weak joint penetrations. This, in my opinion, means they may not be suitable in areas facing large impact loads from falling rocks or very high-velocity flow of stormwater when used in a drainage application.

In a nutshell, challenges to innovation in design can be many and from multiple sources. Civil engineers should attempt their best effort at analysing the possible challenges and propose mitigations based on available systems and capabilities of the industry and local regulation. The breadth of knowledge in such challenges can be gained from reviewing lessons learned from other projects, such as in peer review workshops. Transparency in the industry is needed to ensure the success of future projects utilising innovative design.

This is of significant importance to the construction industry, especially since civil structures are unlike final products developed in the manufacturing or information technology industry, where a completed product can be scrapped easily, and the re-engineered product is rebuilt. The process of development, design, construction, and commissioning of civil structures can take years to achieve completion, and the learning from such design/construction will be spread over that period without the ability to stop and start a re-modification in a trouble-free manner.

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By 2025, 85 million jobs may be displaced, but 97 million new jobs may emerge that are more adapted to the new World of Work. Individuals need to re-skill and upskill to keep up with the changing demands of the new World of Work.

The world of work is changing rapidly at a breakneck pace, and the emergence of new technologies is playing a major role in this change. With it, the skills needed to succeed in the new world of work are also changing. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, 50% of all employees will need reskilling by 2025 as the adoption of technology increases². Critical thinking and problem-solving top the list of skills employers believe will grow in prominence in the next five years². WEF estimates that by 2025, 85 million jobs may be displaced by a shift in the division of labour between humans and machines. But even more jobs – 97 million – may emerge that are more adapted to the new division of labour between humans, machines and algorithms².

To future-proof individuals’ ability to work, they will require new skills. Research by McKinsey Global Institute has explored the future of work in detail. This includes the kind of jobs that will be both lost and created as technology such as AI takes hold. The study shows that while the need for manual skills will decline, the demand for technological, social and higher cognitive skills will increase³.

Artificial intelligence is automating tasks that were once performed by humans, and this trend is only likely to continue. As a result, it is more important than ever for individuals to develop the skills and abilities that will make them employable in this new era. An individual’s employability depends on a number of factors, including his or her education, skills, experience, attitude, and adaptability.

Let us look at these top employability skills needed in the new world of work, especially with the emergence of advanced technologies.

Critical thinking, and problem-solving: AI is good at following rules and executing tasks, but it is not as good at coming up with new ideas or solving complex problems. Humans, on the other hand, are naturally creative and resourceful. We can think outside the box and come up with new solutions to problems that AI may not be able to solve.

Communication and Collaboration: In the new world of work, teams will comprise people from different backgrounds and areas of expertise. To be successful, workers will need to be able to communicate effectively with their colleagues, both in person and through technology.

Creativity, innovation: and ideation: AI is good at following rules and executing tasks, but it is not as good at coming up with new ideas or solving complex problems. Humans, on the other hand, are naturally creative and resourceful. We can think outside the box and come up with new solutions to problems that AI may not be able to solve.

Resilience, Adaptability and flexibility: The world of work is changing rapidly, and new technologies and ways of working are always emerging. Workers who are adaptable and able to learn new things will be well-positioned for success in the new world of work.

Emotional intelligence: AI is not able to understand or respond to emotions. Humans, on the other hand, are naturally empathetic and able to build relationships with others. In the new world of work, workers who can understand and respond to emotions will be in high demand.

Digital competence: Employers increasingly seek candidates with digital literacy skills such as data analysis, coding, and social media management.

Leadership: The ability to inspire and motivate others, as well as manage teams and projects, is highly valued in many industries.

Time management and organisation: The ability to manage time effectively and prioritise tasks is important in any job, especially in a fast-paced work environment.

These skills demonstrate the need for humans to partner and work with AI rather than compete with it. They also emphasise the significance of lifelong learning and continuous training, and re-skilling to keep up with the changing demands of the job market.

In the new World of Work, having key employability skills as a graduate is highly important. By cultivating these skills, graduates can prepare for upcoming opportunities and challenges. The age of Artificial Intelligence has brought about a new world of work that can be both demanding and stimulating. It provides graduates with an opportunity to redefine their significance and contribution to society. Graduates can effectively prepare for this new era by developing their employability skills and competencies. This will ensure their readiness to prosper and succeed in the modern work environment.

Are you wondering about effective ways to develop these critical employability skills? Join Middle East College and head over to the Career Services and Entrepreneurship Office at MEC to access specific information on ways to develop these employability skills while studying at MEC.

Source:
(1) What are the top 10 job skills for the future? | World Economic Forum. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/top-10-work-skills-of-tomorrow-how-long-it-takes-to-learn-them/ Accessed 22/03/2023.

(2) McKinsey: Which skills will be needed for the future of work? | World …. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/06/defining-the-skills-citizens-will-need-in-the-future-world-of-work/ Accessed 22/03/2023.

(3) Here Are the Top 10 Job Skills for 2025 – PCMA. https://www.pcma.org/top-job-skills-2025/ Accessed 22/03/2023.

(4) Here’s why the world of work urgently needs to put skills first. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/03/work-skills-first/ Accessed 23/03/2023.

(5) World Economic Forum Skills of the Future Report Summary – LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/world-economic-forum-skills-future-report-summary-darren-nerland Accessed 24/03/2023.

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Dr. Ali Al-Issa
Associate Professor of English Language Education, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education, Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), and keynote speaker in the 2nd MEC TESOL

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