MUSCAT — Oman opened its fifth national science festival on Monday, offering more than 500 activities and hands-on workshops aimed at strengthening scientific knowledge and encouraging students to explore careers in science and technology.

Organised by the Ministry of Education under the theme “Science Is Our Compass”, the Oman Science Festival runs until November 11 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Oman News Agency reported.

Finance Minister His Excellency Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi inaugurated the event in the presence of Education Minister Her Excellency Dr. Madiha bint Ahmed Al Shaibani.

The festival brings together government bodies, including civilian and military institutions, universities, colleges and private companies. Its programme targets school and university students, educators, parents, scientists and researchers.

Six international scientific institutions from Switzerland, Greece, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Malaysia and South Korea are participating, offering programmes covering mathematics, robotics, space, sustainability and mixed reality.

An international programme titled “Wonders of the Universe”, organised in cooperation with the European Organization for Nuclear Research, known as CERN, features scientists and specialists discussing particle physics, astronomy and gravitational waves.

Across the festival, themed exhibition areas give visitors opportunities to explore scientific concepts through practical experiments and interactive technology.

An environmental sustainability and urban planning section presents solutions involving soil, air, water, energy and urban development, while a biodiversity area explores birds, camels, marine life and plants, alongside laboratory exhibits, fossils and virtual reality applications.

Artificial intelligence, virtual reality and educational games feature in a learning and digital transformation section, with activities spanning science, mathematics and technology.

Other exhibits examine the role of green technologies and renewable energy in addressing climate change. An energy section covers renewable power generation, energy management and efficiency, green hydrogen and sustainable construction, while a food and agricultural technology area offers practical activities on farming and food production.

Visitors can also explore astronomy, meteorology, aviation and drones through interactive exhibits in the space and aviation section.

The Ahmed bin Majid Theatre is hosting scientific demonstrations, stage performances, competitions and challenges designed to combine learning with entertainment.

The ministry said the festival aims to connect classroom knowledge with everyday applications, develop students’ scientific thinking and creativity, and help them identify academic and career pathways suited to their interests and abilities.

The event also supports Oman’s broader efforts to build a knowledge-based society and encourage research and innovation under its Oman Vision 2040 development strategy.

Following the opening, Al Habsi and other guests toured the exhibition areas and were briefed on scientific experiments, technological applications and projects presented by local and international participants.