Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) are strengthening cooperation through their joint committee, with a focus on aligning education, training and scientific research with the needs of Omanβs economic zones sector. At the committeeβs second meeting, both sides reviewed progress on earlier recommendations and discussed new joint initiatives, including expanding student training to Madayn industrial estates alongside the Special Economic Zone at Duqm. They also explored closer engagement with companies affiliated with OPAZ to identify industry challenges and the skills required for the labour market, helping improve alignment between university outputs and sector needs. A research proposal was also discussed to examine relationships between special and free zones and surrounding communities, including intangible cultural heritage and social and cultural changes.
