Developing Community Partnership in Higher Education Institutions in the Sultanate of Oman in Light of the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

Abstract: This study aimed to identify the challenges and opportunities associated with developing community partnerships in the light of the age of artificial intelligence (AI). The study also aimed to generate a range of recommendations to tackle these challenges. The study used the qualitative approach by conducting interviews with a sample consisting of 23 lecturers from higher education institutions in the Sultanate of Oman. The results showed there are a number of opportunities, such as involvement of the private sector in developing academic programs and developing students’ skills. The results also showed a number of challenges, such as a lack of policies supporting community partnerships, the limited participation of the private sector in providing technologies and the high financial cost of emerging technologies. The study ended up with some suggestions, such as developing aspects of cooperation with the private sector, especially with international companies, inviting the private sector for more partnerships to support scientific research in the areas of AI, and exposing the international experts.

(Keywords: Community Partnership, Higher Education Institutions, Artificial Intelligence)