Oman’s Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (Riyada), in partnership with the Ministry of Education, has launched the fourth edition of its “Future Pioneers Camp 2026.” The week-long program is underway at the Al Buraimi Science and Innovation Center, bringing together 70 students from the seventh, eighth, and ninth grades to immerse them in the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
Quick Facts
- What: The fourth “Future Pioneers Camp 2026”
- Who: 70 students from Al Buraimi Governorate
- Goal: Foster entrepreneurship and build startup skills
From Idea to AI-Powered Prototype
The bootcamp is structured to guide students through the early stages of building a startup. The intensive program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, aiming to equip participants with the skills to transform their ideas into tangible projects.
The curriculum is built on five integrated training modules. It starts with identifying market challenges and generating ideas, then moves to idea development and solution design. A key component of the program involves teaching students to build initial prototypes using artificial intelligence applications. The camp culminates with students preparing and delivering pitches to a specialized judging committee for evaluation.
Aligning with Oman Vision 2040
This initiative reflects a broader strategy within the Al Buraimi Governorate and the Sultanate to cultivate young talent and strengthen the local innovation ecosystem. By introducing entrepreneurship concepts at an early age, the program supports the goals of “Oman Vision 2040,” which aims to transition the country toward a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
The collaboration between Riyada and the Ministry of Education is part of a national effort to promote self-employment and an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth. The program is designed to sharpen future-ready skills and encourage students to develop creative solutions that can contribute to the national economy.
About Riyada
The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (Riyada) is the primary government body in Oman responsible for the development of the SME sector. It designs and implements programs and policies aimed at supporting entrepreneurs, fostering a culture of innovation, and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized businesses in the Sultanate.
Source: Oman Daily
