Sohar:The "Digital Leadership Week," organized by the Office of the Governor of North Al Batinah, commenced today in the Wilayat of Sohar, North Al Batinah Governorate. The event is officiated by Eng. Said Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, and will run until October 18.
According to Oman News Agency, Eng. Nasser Said Al Maamari, Director General of Administrative and Financial Affairs and Head of the Digital Transformation Executive Team in North Al Batinah Governorate, highlighted that Digital Leadership Week serves as a national platform for digital leaders, experts, and decision-makers in fields such as emerging technologies, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and information technology. The initiative aims to promote the digital entrepreneurship environment and foster cooperation across business sectors by encouraging the establishment of companies reliant on innovation and digital technologies.
The week is part of the "Raqmi 1" initiative, which strives to transform North Al Batinah into a digital innovation hub. This aligns with the goals of the National Program for Digital Economy, focusing on developing the digital business environment, deploying AI technologies, enhancing smart industry applications, and fostering skills and entrepreneurship. The initiative seeks to empower SMEs and startups to create competitive digital products and services.
Dr. Nasser Mohammed Al Fannah, Director of the Technology Programs Office at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, noted the importance of integrating knowledge and expertise for successful digital entrepreneurship. He emphasized that Digital Leadership Week is an opportunity for entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, and institutional representatives to exchange expertise and build sustainable technology projects. Oman has made strides in technology entrepreneurship, with developments in local applications, innovative financial technology solutions, and local laptop manufacturing.
He also stated that the first phase of the National Program for Digital Economy achieved significant milestones, such as digitizing over 2,200 government services and training more than 11,000 youth through the "Makeen" initiative. The Ministry is preparing to announce the second phase of the program, aiming to increase the digital economy's contribution to the national economy, enhance investments, and expand opportunities for the private sector.
The event includes the launch of the "Safe Digital Community" initiative and showcases programs from various authorities to support the digital economy. A panel discussion on "Opportunities and Challenges of Digital Leadership in the Era of Artificial Intelligence" and a cooperation agreement signing between the Office of the Governor of North Al Batinah and the "Musallih" digital platform are also featured.
Over four days, the week will offer panel discussions, presentations, and workshops on topics such as digital marketing, entrepreneurship, e-commerce, and sustainable innovation. The Digital Leadership Hackathon "Raqmi 1 Lab" aims to develop innovative ideas into scalable solutions, with projects evaluated on innovation, feasibility, and impact.
The week will conclude with a review of key outcomes, honoring participants and winners, and exploring investment opportunities to advance the digital economy in North Al Batinah Governorate.