Oman and Edinburgh: Young Leaders Driving Sustainability and Technology Forward

The British Omani Society is delighted to host this blog by Azan Elshaikh, Cultural Engagement Projects Coordinator at the British Council in Oman. This article highlights two groundbreaking initiatives—the Tahaddi Mustadam Hackathon in Oman and theYouth Connect Tech for Humanity Study Visit in Edinburgh—that brought together bright minds from Oman and beyond to tackle pressing environmental and technological challenges.

Supported by the British Omani Society and the British Council, these events showcased the power of creativity, cross-cultural exchange, and ethical innovation in shaping a more sustainable future. From AI-driven solutions to robotics and ethical discussions, the programs underscored the vital role of youth in forging a path toward responsible progress.

Oman’s Tahaadi Mustadam Hackathon: Innovation in Action

Over 48 hours, young Omanis worked together to develop solutions for pressing sustainability challenges. From AI-driven energy management to reducing water waste, the event showcased creativity and collaboration.

Modern-day explorer Mark Evans, recently returned from the Jewel of Arabia expedition, shared insights on Oman’s biodiversity and the importance of sustainability. He also presented awards to the winning teams, celebrating their achievements.

The event was supported by key partners, including the German University of Technology in Oman, the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Youth, Oman Sustainability Week, Outward Bound Oman, and The British Omani Society. Judges Thuraya Al Taei (BP), Suaad Al Harthi (Environment Society of Oman), and Mohab Ali Al-Hinai (Be’ah) provided valuable feedback on the projects.

Edinburgh: A Global Learning Experience

Thanks to the British Omani Society, Omani participants joined peers from Cyprus, England, France, Greece, and Ireland for the Youth Connect Tech for Humanity Study Visit in Edinburgh.

The program included workshops and discussions on ethical AI, a visit to the National Robotarium to interact with advanced robotics, and a panel at the Edinburgh Futures Institute exploring the role of arts and humanities in technology. Experts like Matthew Aylett (Heriot-Watt University), Alexander Fahie (TAISK Labs), and Josie Deacon (CeeD) shared practical insights on how technology can address real-world challenges.

A Collaborative Effort for the Future

These initiatives demonstrated how young people are actively contributing to a more sustainable and technologically responsible future.

Special thanks go to Zainab Al Barwani, the Oman Cultural Engagement team, the British Omani Society, and Chrysa Vlachopoulou and colleagues from the EU and UK regions for their support in making these events possible.

Together, they showed the potential of combining innovation, collaboration, and global perspectives to create meaningful change.

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Below are some photos from Youth Connect Tech for Humanity Study Visit in Edinburgh: