Muscat: To support innovation and research in the field of telecommunications, Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel) yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
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SQU was represented by Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ali bin Saud Al Bemani while Omantel was represented by Chief Executive Officer Talal bin Said Al Mamari.
The MoU aims to promote and develop cooperation in the fields of innovation, research and facilitate exchange of studies, research, skills and experience in the field of telecommunications.
As per the MoU, Omantel will support innovation and research through bilateral agreements between the two sides. SQU will encourage its academic departments and students to conduct research and innovate in the telecommunications fields. The two sides will conduct specialised lectures, workshops and exchange experiences, and will provide support to carry out the proposed programmes. The duration of the MoU is two years.
The two sides also signed a Letter of Agreement (LoA) to train university graduates in the field of communications. The agreement will help promote cooperation and partnership between SQU and Omantel in order to serve public interest. The two parties agreed to find a general framework to support the higher education field, especially the field of communication technology education.
As per the LoA, Omantel will offer two modules for three-month training courses in telecommunications to SQU students. The targeted category for graduates is Communication Engineering and students with scientific excellence.
The trainees will get preference for employment in Omantel or one of the companies that deal with Omantel in the field of telecommunications.
The agreement is valid for one year from the date of signature, and can be renewed by mutual consent.