Sohar University (SU) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Indian Institute of Management, (IIM Rohtak)

Sohar University (SU) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Indian Institute of Management, (IIM Rohtak) to explore collaboration to initiate the Bachelor of Business Administration program. This (MoA) was signed by Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Hon’ble Director of IIM Rohtak and Dr. Hamdan Al Fazari, Vice Chancellor of Sohar University, during the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) conference held in Sohar University with the theme “Elevating Intellectual Property, Research, and Innovation in Oman”, under the patronage of H.E. Prof. Rahma Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI) with His Excellency Amit Narang, Indian Ambassador to Oman, in attendance.

Prof Dheeraj Sharma was invited to deliver the keynote address for the World Intellectual Property Conference. Prof Sharma highlighted the need for a balance between protecting intellectual property versus open innovation. Also, Prof. Sharma encouraged researchers to examine opportunities for disruptive innovation that truly bring value to mankind and society. Prof Sharma requested the researchers and eminent scholars participating in the conference to avoid commercializing and investing frivolous innovations that create negative externalities. He cited previous research to proffer a view that innovation should not be an attempt to change people but should be aimed at positively changing the world we live in. The event was attended by H.E. Prof. Rahma Al Mahrouqi, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education Oman, Research and Innovation (MoHERI). In addition, the event was attended by His Excellency Mr. Amit Narang, Hon’ble Indian Ambassador to Oman and Senior official of WIPO and several top researchers from across the world.

The MoA highlighted the importance of the partnership in advancing business education and research in the region and marks a significant milestone in academic collaboration between the two esteemed institutions. Sohar University will offer its infrastructure for any such endeavor that will allow for a speedy start of the program. However, the program start date has not been finalized at this time.

The Bachelor of Business Administration program is specifically targeted at the vast Indian diaspora population within the radius of 200 kms of Sohar University. It was found that there is a significant opportunity to offer high quality education to potential students of the Indian diaspora in the region. The modalities for the same are being worked out. The joint degree program will provide students with a comprehensive foundation in key disciplines such as management, finance, operations, and marketing. The program emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and ethical business practices, ensuring that alumni are well-prepared for the challenges of the global business environment.

Recognized as one of India’s leading management institutions, IIM Rohtak is renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to developing future leaders. The collaboration reflects a shared vision of fostering high-quality education and promoting research excellence through a rigorous academic curriculum and a focus on practical applications. By collaborating with a globally renowned institution like IIM Rohtak, Sohar University reaffirms its commitment to nurturing future leaders and driving transformative progress in higher education.