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Shaping the future of global science: ISC’s fourth Global Knowledge Dialogue in Muscat 

A landmark global gathering brings together scientists and stakeholders in the scientific community to address strategic priorities, sustainability, and innovation in global science.

MUSCAT, OMAN, 27 January 2025 – The International Science Council (ISC) is holding its fourth and final Global Knowledge Dialogue (GKD) in Muscat, Oman. The event will foster collaboration, innovation, and dialogue across disciplines, shaping the future of science for sustainability and global development, with more than 415 Member representatives from 132 countries attending the Dialogue. 

The ISC has undertaken an ambitious series of Global Knowledge Dialogues to strengthen international scientific collaboration and address regional priorities. This journey began in 2022 with the Global Knowledge Dialogue for Africa, continued in 2023 and 2024 with dialogues in the Asia-Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean regions, and culminates now in the MENA region with this significant gathering at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) in Muscat. 

Welcoming participants during the official opening, H.E. Prof. Rahma Al-Mahrooqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation of the Sultanate of Oman, remarked:

We, who are concerned with science, have a great responsibility to work continuously for humanity, especially for a better future for future generations, which must be provided with knowledge that develops awareness and understanding of individual and societal responsibility towards the world as a whole. Therefore, our forum represents a vital platform for building international scientific partnerships that support humanity and contribute to achieving tangible progress in the areas of sustainable development that concern all people.

This landmark event, hosted by ISC Member the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation of Oman is held under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs and Personal Representative of His Majesty the Sultan.

Today, with this generous patronage, we send an Omani message from its ancient capital, Muscat, to all friends in various countries of the world: Science must be at the heart of our priorities, and that enhancing the capabilities of scientists and researchers and empowering them is the way to build a better future for humanity.

H.E. Prof. Rahma Al-Mahrooqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation of the Sultanate of Oman

Following on the stage, the President of the International Science Council Sir Peter Gluckman, noted:

Oman is an example of a fast emerging and ambitious country that has recognized how science and education are core to national development, and they are to be applauded for that and their commitment to this forum. They have also been a leader in science diplomacy where I have worked with their team closely. 

He pursued, discussing the evolution of the ISC’s role to meet rising global challenges and the role of science must play in tackling them.

The science community has important responsibilities and opportunities. We have a universal language. Our goal is to better understand the world around and within us. Science is an essential part of the route to environmental wellbeing, social and economic development. As a broad  and uniquely representative organization we have a critical role to play, but it will be more effective when the global science community works together. 

Sir Peter Gluckman, President of the International Science Council

Setting the stage for strategic priorities in science

The series of events began on 26 January with workshops and roundtables aimed at exploring key priority topics for the scientific community, including freedom and responsibility in science, artificial intelligence and its impact on scientific innovation, data policy, and effective science advice to policymakers.  

It will continue 29 and 30 January with the International Science Council’s Third General Assembly, marking the first in-person gathering of this kind since the ISC’s establishment in 2018. This exclusive event will bring together ISC Members and Fellows for discussions focused on strategic priorities and organizational governance, providing a unique opportunity to shape strategic priorities of the Council. 

Today, the Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue officially opened with a ceremony that promised an inspiring start to two days of engaging scientific discussions. The Dialogue will serve as a key public-facing segment of the ISC’s Third General Assembly, where ISC Member representatives from diverse scientific and geographic backgrounds will share insights and perspectives around three key themes: 

  • Science systems and science futures, exploring current and anticipated developments in science, including AI and other emerging technologies, open science, research assessment, science publishing and transdisciplinary science. 
  • Science and just transformations to sustainability, addressing science’s role in driving environmental and societal change. 
  • Science and society, emphasizing trust in science, science diplomacy, and issues of equality and social cohesion. 

The event will conclude with a closing ceremony featuring the adoption of the Muscat Declaration, expected to outline ambitious goals and outcomes to strengthen global science policy and advance the role of science in sustainability efforts. 

Member support enables diverse participation 

Several ISC Member organizations, as listed below, provided financial support to enable delegates from other Members with financial constraints to participate. Thanks to these generous contributions, over 80 delegates from low-income countries and low-income Member organizations are able to attend the events in Muscat. 

The event also places a strong emphasis on engaging youth and early-career scientists. Dedicated roundtable sessions and speaking opportunities will ensure that the next generation of scientists is actively involved in global science discussions, fostering their contributions to shaping a sustainable future.  

This commitment to supporting early-career researchers has been supported by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), which enabled Early- and Mid-Career Researchers (EMCRs) to attend and participate in both the Muscat Knowledge Dialogue and the ISC General Assembly. 


Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue and Third ISC General Assembly

The Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue and Third ISC General Assembly will be hosted by ISC Member, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation of Oman, on 26–30 January 2025, under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs and Personal Representative of His Majesty the Sultan. It is the first in-person General Assembly of the ISC since the creation of the organization in July 2018.

The Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue, which takes place on 26–28 January, is the segment of the ISC General Assembly focusing on science and is open to a wider public.


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