The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation (MoHERI) in Oman organised a seminar on the Erasmus+ programme, which bolsters educational collaboration between Oman and the EU.
The event was held at the Middle East College in Muscat under the patronage of Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. European Union (EU) ambassadors in Oman, experts, cultural attachés, and representatives from higher education institutions attended the seminar.
Dr. Al Mahrouqi emphasised the importance of strengthening academic ties between Oman and the EU. She highlighted that the Erasmus+ programme presents a strategic opportunity to promote academic collaboration and knowledge exchange, aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s knowledge-based economy goals. She also stated that the programme acts as a catalyst for innovative solutions to global challenges, such as transitioning to a green and digital economy.
The minister noted that in 2023, 13 academic cooperation agreements were signed between Omani and European universities. Additionally, in 2024, Dhofar University was awarded the Jean Monnet grant, benefiting 65 Omani students. She also pointed out that Oman has the highest number of recipients in the region for fully funded Erasmus+ Mundus scholarships in the current cycle (2021-2027).
Pierluigi D’Elia, Italy’s Ambassador to Oman, spoke on behalf of the EU Council’s local presidency and praised the progress of the Erasmus+ programme in Oman. He commended Dr. Al Mahrouqi’s efforts and the enthusiasm of Omani students and academics. D’Elia highlighted the historical significance of Erasmus+ in Europe and encouraged Omani students to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the programme.
Ahmed bin Khamis Al Qatiti, Director of International Cooperation at MoHERI, highlighted Oman’s remarkable achievements in the Erasmus+ programme. He mentioned that approximately €26 billion has been allocated for the programme in its current cycle (2021-2027), with €5 billion designated for 2025. Oman ranks third regionally and first in the Gulf for master’s scholarships under the Erasmus+ programme.
The seminar included panel discussions featuring insights from the European Commission and success stories from Sultan Qaboos University, Nizwa University, and the German University of Technology. The topics covered included the Jean Monnet Research Programme, joint master’s programmes, and the application process for Erasmus+ scholarships.
The event concluded with recommendations to review the ministry’s recognition systems, enhance collaboration with private higher education institutions and EU lecturers, promote Omani educational institutions, and increase awareness about the importance of the Erasmus+ programme.