MUSCAT: As part of its continued commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student engagement, the Modern College of Business and Science (MCBS) successfully hosted NextGen Tech 2026, a four-day academic and innovation event held from 12 to 15 April 2026 at its Muscat campus. The event brought together approximately 500 students from universities, colleges, and schools across Oman to explore emerging technologies and participate in hands-on learning experiences.

NextGen Tech 2026 was designed as an interactive platform to encourage student participation in key areas including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Research, Mathematics, and Robotics. Through a combination of competitions, workshops, and student research presentations, the event promoted technological innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of practical skills essential for the future workforce.

The event reflects MCBS’s belief in experiential, future-focused education that bridges academic learning with real-world application. It also supports Oman Vision 2040 by fostering digital transformation and empowering youth with the skills and knowledge required to contribute to a knowledge-based economy.

Each day of the program was dedicated to a specialized theme, offering participants a comprehensive and immersive experience. The event opened with an AI Hackathon, where students developed innovative AI-based solutions, followed by a Cybersecurity Day featuring a competitive Capture The Flag challenge. The third day focused on Research and Innovation, including student research presentations and a mathematics competition, while the final day showcased robotics system design and live demonstrations.

In addition to competitions, daily hands-on workshops were conducted covering Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking, Research and Innovation, and Robotics and Automation. These sessions were led by distinguished speakers and industry experts, including Mr. Muhanna Al-Zuhaimi, Intellectual Property Expert at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, Dr. Nasser Al-Azwani, Head of IT at Alizz Islamic Bank, and Dr. Mohammed, Founder of Code Academy.

The event also witnessed strong engagement from student-led clubs, including the Computing Club, Coding Club, Math Club, and the Ethical Hacking Club, further strengthening a culture of collaboration and peer-driven innovation within the MCBS community.

“NextGen Tech 2026 reflects our commitment to preparing students not only to understand technology, but to shape its future,” said Dr. Moosa Al Kindi, Dean of MCBS. “By creating spaces where innovation, collaboration, and critical thinking intersect, we empower our students to become active contributors to the digital transformation envisioned for Oman and beyond.”

Competitions, including the AI Hackathon, Cybersecurity Capture The Flag, Robotics Competition, and Mathematics Competitions, were evaluated by a panel of industry professionals to ensure high standards and fairness. Winners across all categories were awarded cash prizes, trophies, and certificates in recognition of their innovation, creativity, and technical excellence.

NextGen Tech 2026 represents a key event in MCBS’s ongoing efforts to cultivate future-ready graduates and reinforce the connection between education, innovation, and real-world impact. The event also contributes to the College’s broader vision as it continues to build on its legacy of excellence and progress toward its long-term institutional goals.