Muscat, October 29, 2025. The College of Engineering at the National University of Science and Technology (NU), Oman, hosted the 15th Women Engineers Forum under the theme “Women Engineers Shaping Oman’s Future: Innovation, Inclusion & Impact.”
The Forum was inaugurated by Professor Dr Ahmed Hassan Al Balushi, Dean of the College of Engineering, and graced by Ms Areej Mohsin Haider Al Darwish, Chairperson of Mohsin Haider Darwish Group, as the Guest of Honour. The event was attended by distinguished guests, faculty members, industry representatives, and a large gathering of students and alums.
In his opening address, Dr Al Balushi emphasised the vital role of Omani women engineers in national development and innovation. The Forum Chair, Ms Prekerthi Panikar, shared the inspiring journey of how the Women Engineers Forum was first conceptualised in 2011 at the former Caledonian College of Engineering, a response to the observation that nearly 53% of the engineering student population were women. Yet, many could not be traced after graduation. The Forum was thus born as a sustainable platform to connect, empower, and celebrate women engineers, fostering their visibility and participation in Oman’s engineering and innovation landscape. Over the years, the Forum has provided networking opportunities both in the region and beyond. Women Engineers have received training not only in research and design but also in entrepreneurial capacity-building.
This year’s event featured keynotes, interactive sessions, and innovation showcases, including:
- A keynote address by Ms Areej Al Darwish, inspiring students to lead with confidence and vision.
- An inaugural message from Dr Sarah Peers, President of the International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists (INWES – Canada), highlighting cross-border collaboration in advancing women in STEM.
- Inspiring journeys shared by young Omani entrepreneurs Saba and Samar Al Saadi, founders of WeTik marketing, and Engineer Aya Al Zadjalia from INTECS.
- The “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures” 3-minute professional pitch session brought together students and alumni to showcase their achievements and career aspirations.
The student club teams actively supported the event, with valuable contributions from Qumra (Photography), Madar (Social Media Management), Ruwad (Student Entrepreneurs), and Hiba (Community Engagement) Students’ Club members. The event was made extra special by students showcasing their homegrown businesses and products, which were well-received by the guests.
The Forum also marked the 30th Anniversary of the College of Engineering’s contribution to Oman’s higher education, reinforcing its legacy of excellence and inclusivity. Over the years, the Women Engineers Forum has connected hundreds of students with industry mentors, global networks, and leadership opportunities, aligning strongly with Oman Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on gender inclusivity and innovation.
In her closing remarks, the Chair of the Women Engineers Forum reaffirmed the University’s vision to advance women’s leadership and visibility in engineering education and industry across the region.
The event concluded with a recognition ceremony honouring outstanding contributors, followed by networking sessions. The event coincided with the Omani Women’s Day and the Omani Youth Day 2025.
The Women Engineers Forum continues to stand as a symbol of empowerment, innovation, and leadership, inspiring every woman engineer to dream, design, and lead in shaping Oman’s future through engineering excellence.