The Middle East Supplement
The Evolution of Higher Education in Oman
Overcoming challenges and embracing development within Oman's higher education sphere.
By Aisha Al-Kharusi, Deputy Executive Chairperson,
Modern College of Business and Science, Oman
"The new focus on research and innovation has been a game-changer for Oman’s higher education sector."
The landscape of higher education in Oman has undergone significant transformations over the past three decades, with outstanding strides being made to develop a robust, open and pioneering educational system.
Since the establishment of the Ministry of Higher Education, Oman has played a pivotal role in this transformation, tackling diverse challenges while fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and professionally. From expanding access to education to improving the quality of academic programmes, Oman has seen continuous growth and development in its higher education sector, positioning itself as a leader in the region.
In January 1994, Royal Decree 2/1994 separated the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) from the Ministry of Education. It gave the Ministry of Higher Education an independent mandate and a new organizational framework.
The early stages: Laying the foundation
Before establishing formal higher education institutions, Omani students had to pursue their education internationally, primarily in countries like Jordan, Egypt, the United Kingdom and the United States. However, as Oman began to modernise under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the requirement for a domestic higher education system became evident. Hence the Ministry of Higher Education was established to lay the foundation for Oman’s higher education sector.
The early years focused on building the necessary infrastructure, establishing primarily public academic institutions and ensuring that Omanis had access to tertiary education within their borders. The first significant development was the establishment of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) in 1986, which became the cornerstone of higher education in Oman. SQU marked a significant milestone as it was the first public university and played a crucial role in developing the academic and research culture in the country.
The name change: A shift toward research and innovation
The Ministry of Higher Education has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. In August 2020, with the appointment of Her Excellency Professor Dr Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, the ministry's name was officially changed to the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. This change reflects Oman’s growing focus on research and innovation as key social and economic development drivers.
Including research and innovation in the ministry's name indicates the importance of providing quality education and fostering a culture of innovation and scientific advancement in the country. This strategic shift supports Oman’s broader vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy by focusing on research-driven solutions and creating a sustainable environment for innovation to thrive.
The name change also aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. By prioritising research and innovation within higher education, Oman lays the foundation for a future where its graduates contribute to a dynamic and diversified economy.
Oman Vision 2040 is the national reference for economic and social planning and the source of national sector strategies and five-year development plans. It was put in place under the wise guidance of His Majesty, the late Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, and carried forward by His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik Al Said.
After being developed with a wide range of participation by community participation, Oman Vision 2040 was approved by His Majesty Sultan Haitham in 2020. Then it was put into action as of early January 2021 and remains in force till 2040. Education, Learning, Scientific Research and National Capabilities are one of the main priorities of Oman Vision 2040. This includes the strategic direction of inclusive education, lifelong learning, and scientific research that leads to a knowledge-based society and competitive national talents.
Key developments: Expansion of universities and colleges
Since the founding of SQU, Oman’s higher education landscape has evolved rapidly. The Ministry of Higher Education, now focusing on research and innovation, has expanded the number of universities and colleges to ensure that more students can access higher education opportunities locally. Encouraging the establishment of private universities, colleges, and public institutions such as Dhofar University, Sohar University, the Modern College of Business and Science, and Nizwa University allowed for greater diversity and specialisation in academic programmes.
Today, Oman boasts a wide range of higher education institutions, both public and private, offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programmes across diverse fields. These include humanities, engineering, business, science, technology, and specialized programmes in arts, social sciences, and healthcare. According to the MOHERI website, Oman’s higher education system currently includes 27 private universities and colleges with 35,000 students.
International collaboration and accreditation
In its efforts to improve the quality of education, the Ministry of Higher Education has prioritised collaboration with international institutions and accreditation bodies. Many universities and colleges in Oman have established partnerships with renowned international universities, creating exchange programmes, joint research projects, and pathways for students to gain international experience. Additionally, international research conferences are taking place through higher education institutions with support from MOHERI.
In recent years, the ministry also strongly emphasised the accreditation of academic programmes. Many institutions in Oman are today ranked among the world’s largest higher education networks, such as Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), which ensure that the educational standards align with global best practices.
Recent data indicates that seven universities in Oman are included in the QS Arab Ranking, with two institutions also featured in the QS World Ranking—comprising one public and one private university. Sultan Qaboos University maintains its prominent position, ranking 362nd among the top 500 universities globally. These advancements have significantly enhanced the quality of education and improved the international standing of Omani higher education.
Support for research and innovation
The new focus on research and innovation has been a game-changer for Oman’s higher education sector. The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation has invested heavily in developing research centers, providing grants, and promoting scientific research, focusing on areas critical to Oman’s development.
Research initiatives in Oman have grown significantly, with universities and academic institutions becoming hubs for innovation. Students and faculty members are encouraged to participate in research projects, which has increased publications, conferences, and international recognition for Omani researchers. The government has also introduced policies that foster collaboration between universities, industries, and government institutions to ensure that research outcomes translate into real-life impact.
Increased access to education
The Ministry of Higher Education has ensured that higher education is accessible to all Omanis, regardless of gender, socioeconomic background, or geographical location. In line with Oman’s Vision 2040, the government has made efforts to increase scholarship opportunities, especially for women and students from remote areas, to pursue higher education domestically and abroad.
Focus on skills development and employability
Recognising the importance of preparing students for the workforce, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation has increasingly focused on aligning academic programmes with industry needs. Many Omani higher education institutes have introduced more practical, industry-focused curricula, partnerships with private and public sector organizations and student internship opportunities.
Additionally, there has been a growing emphasis on developing students' soft skills, such as adaptive lifelong learners, effective communicators and technologically capable, which are crucial for success in the global job market. The ministry also supports programmes to foster entrepreneurship among young Omani graduates, empowering them to become job creators rather than just job seekers.
Ensuring quality and international standards
On 13 January 2021, The Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education (OAAAQA) was established, amending the name of the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA) and reporting to the Council of Ministers. OAAQA is an independent body responsible for ensuring the quality and standards of higher education institutions in Oman.
The authority provides institutional accreditation to higher education providers, ensuring they meet rigorous quality assurance frameworks. Additionally, programmatic accreditation ensures that specific academic programmes within institutions meet the established educational standards for each discipline. All Omani universities and colleges, both public and private, are held to high standards of education, fostering an environment of continuous improvement.
From foundations to global participation: The journey of Oman’s higher education
Oman’s remarkable higher education journey has evolved from its early foundations to a vibrant, accessible, and globally recognised system. The recent renaming of the Ministry of Higher Education to the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation highlights the nation's commitment to placing research and innovation at the heart of its development, locally and globally. Through visionary leadership, the ministry has been pivotal in shaping an educational landscape that prepares students with the skills to succeed in an increasingly diverse world. While challenges remain, the nation’s steadfast focus on education will continue to drive Oman’s growth and competitive edge. As the higher education sector evolves, it will remain a cornerstone in the nation’s progress, fueling innovation and growth for future generations.