Hackathon to boost innovation in Omani embassies

Oman Tuesday 22/October/2024 18:28 PM
By: ONA
Hackathon to boost innovation in Omani embassies

Muscat: The Foreign Ministry on Tuesday launched a programme codenamed “Your Embassy Hackathon” to enhance continuous innovation and upgrading of services at Omani embassies around the world.

Khalid Hashel Al Musalhi, Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Administrative and Financial Affairs (the chief guest at the event) underscored the significance of the programme.

He pointed out that “Your Embassy Hackathon” brings about “a qualitative leap in the efficiency of diplomatic action”, since it upgrades the standards of functioning at embassies in line with Oman Vision 2040.

Al Musalhi explained that the programme seeks to expand the use of modern technology by introducing smart solutions for improving embassy procedures and make them more sustainable.

He added that “Your Embassy Hackathon”, the first of its kind in Oman, reflects the Foreign Ministry’s efforts to develop smart embassies that use modern technology to improve efficiency and sustainability in providing services.

The hackathon paves the way for the presentation of initiatives and ideas for the application of modern technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) in serving citizens abroad and establishing effective communication.

“Your Embassy Hackathon” contributes to digital transition, cybersecurity, resource management and digital communication, Al Musalhi said.

The programme, which will continue until mid-December 2024, has already generated wide response from the Ministry’s employees and Omani missions abroad.

The entries will be assessed by a jury that will announce the winning projects and initiatives in time. -ONA