As part of efforts to enhance academic and scientific cooperation, Sultan Qaboos University welcomed this morning an academic delegation from Sakarya University, Türkiye, to explore avenues for collaboration in higher education and research.

The visit began with a presentation introducing SQU’s colleges, research centres and facilities, highlighting the University’s achievements in scientific research and innovation at local, regional, and international levels, as well as its significant contributions to education, development, and sustainability.

Mahmood bin Abdullah Al-Kindi, Director of the International Cooperation Office, gave an overview of the University’s active international partnerships with higher education institutions across the region and beyond. Dr. Malik bin Mohammed Al-Wardi, Director of the Agricultural Experiment Station at the College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, outlined the University’s scientific role in environmental balance, pollution studies, and collaboration with international environmental organisations.

From the visiting delegation, Professor Samir Afifi, Coordinator of International Projects at Sakarya University, presented the University’s work in areas related to environmental protection, resource management and sustainability. Dr. Tuba Tatar, International Office Coordinator, highlighted Sakarya University’s international cooperation and research initiatives. In addition, Dr. Salma Tabassum, from the Department of Chemistry, spoke on research efforts at Sakarya.

The discussions explored potential collaboration in scientific research publications and the development of joint academic programmes targeting broader regional engagement, along with opportunities for joint funding. Both sides also discussed launching initiatives for Arabic and Turkish language instruction, participation in EU Erasmus+ projects (KA1 and KA2), bilateral research projects, and the organisation of summer schools and vocational training programmes.

The two-day programme also includes tours of several SQU colleges and research centres, aimed at identifying further opportunities for cooperation between the two institutions.