Dhofar University Launches UNESCO Chair in Science and Innovation for Environmental Sustainability

Dhofar University has announced the launch of the UNESCO Chair in Science and Innovation for Environmental Sustainability—the first of its kind in the Sultanate of Oman—as part of its ongoing commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering innovation in environmental and sustainable development.

The new Chair aims to become a leading regional platform for advanced research, capacity building, and international cooperation; it focuses on developing scientific solutions to address key environmental challenges in the Sultanate and the wider region, in alignment with UNESCO’s goals and Oman’s Vision 2040.

The research Chair is headed by Prof. Mazharul Islam, Professor of Chemical Engineering at Dhofar University, who will oversee the implementation of specialized scientific programmers in key areas, including:

• Waste recycling and its conversion into innovative bioproducts such as biodegradable plastics and biofuels.
• Development of renewable energy technologies.
• Greywater treatment and rainwater harvesting
• Supporting sustainable industries and clean technology.

🔹 The Vision of the University Leadership

Prof. Amer Bin Ali Al-Rawas, Vice Chancellor of Dhofar University, emphasizes that the launch of the UNESCO Chair reflects the university’s steadfast commitment to its scientific and national mission. He describes it as a strategic milestone that aligns with and supports the Sultanate of Oman’s priorities in the areas of sustainability and innovation. “At Dhofar University, we are committed to building a robust and forward-looking research ecosystem, one that addresses pressing environmental challenges through rigorous scientific inquiry and strategic international partnerships. The establishment of this Chair marks a transformative milestone in our pursuit of that vision,” he stated.

🔹 The role of the academic colleges

For his part, Dr. Essam Al-Bahdour, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Dhofar University, explained that the research chair would provide an advanced scientific environment that enhances the college’s efforts in the fields of energy, environmental sustainability, and biotechnology. He added, “Through this Chair, we aim to enhance the participation of students and researchers in applied scientific projects that serve both the environment and society, while contributing to the development of national competencies capable of addressing future challenges.” The Chair also aims to integrate sustainability concepts into university curricula, organize workshops and training programs, and implement community awareness campaigns focused on environmental and energy issues.Prof. Mazharul Islam, Chair of the UNESCO Chair, pointed out that this cooperation with UNESCO would represent a real platform to address some of the most important environmental challenges in the Sultanate of Oman through science, innovation and international cooperation. The Chair is expected to contribute to the development of viable scientific solutions that support the national economy, enhance energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and prepare a new generation of Omani researchers specialized in advanced environmental technologies.