Today, Monday, February 24th, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the world of engineering education with the launch of the MSc Mechatroleum Engineering program at the College of Engineering. The ceremony, held at the Assembly Hall, was conducted under the esteemed patronage of Shaikh Khalid bin Ghalib Al Hinai, Minister Advisor for HR, Minister of Energy and Minerals, Sultanate of Oman.
The inaugural event was graced by prominent figures from academia, industry, and government. It provided an opportunity for all to reflect on the growing importance of interdisciplinary collaboration within the oil and gas sector, especially as it pertains to addressing the industry’s evolving needs.
In his opening speech, Honorable Vice Chancellor Dr. Ali Biamni emphasized that the Mechatroleum Engineering Master’s program is not just another educational initiative but a pioneering step in bridging the gap between petroleum engineering and mechanical engineering. “The future of the oil and gas sector relies on engineers who are no longer confined to isolated roles. The new MSc program ensures that petroleum engineers and mechanical engineers work together seamlessly, fostering a culture of collaboration that will drive innovation and support the growth of the knowledge economy,” said Dr. Biamni.
Shaikh Khalid bin Ghalib Al Hinai, the Patron of the event, in his keynote address, delivered an insightful reflection on the strategic importance of creating academic programs that cater to both current and future demands in the energy sector. He emphasized the global shortage of skilled workers, particularly in green jobs, citing that the industry will require 3 million workers, 65% of whom will need higher skills in multidisciplinary engineering. His remarks echoed the need for innovative education models that equip graduates with the necessary expertise to address these challenges.
The launch of the MSc Mechatroleum Engineering program directly addresses these concerns by preparing highly skilled professionals who are ready to meet the emerging demands of the industry. This program is designed to bridge the gap between petroleum engineering and mechanical engineering, preparing graduates with a unique set of competencies that will serve the ever-evolving energy sector.
As part of its commitment to producing well-rounded engineers capable of tackling industry challenges, the College of Engineering is proud to lead this initiative, which aims to play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce of the oil, gas, and energy sectors.
The Dean of College of Engineering Dr Ahmed Al Bulushi extend his heartfelt gratitude to Shaikh Khalid bin Ghalib Al Hinai and all esteemed guests for their valuable contributions to this landmark event. The launch of the MSc Mechatroleum Engineering program is just the beginning of an exciting journey toward advancing education and innovation in the energy industry. “Through its diverse programs, the College aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the global engineering community and meet the demands of tomorrow’s industries” said Dr. Al Bulushi.