English 
العربية 
Muscat, December 11, 2023 — Middle East College (MEC) took a bold step into the future with its first-ever Future-Tech Colloquium, showcasing emerging trends and groundbreaking discussions on technology’s impact in various domains. Organised by MEC’s IEEE Student Branch and the BCS Student Chapter, the colloquium was a convergence of ideas and innovations.
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.
