The Chairman of the Academy for Strategic and Defence Studies in Muscat, Maj. Gen Hamid Ahmed Sakroon, welcomed Commodore Matt Solly, Deputy Commandant of the UK’s Defence Academy, and discussed various academic and training topics during their meeting. The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate in academic and scientific fields, strengthening ties between the two institutions.
The Deputy Commandant and his delegation also visited the Joint Command and Staff College (CSC) at the Academy for Strategic and Defence Studies, where they were briefed on the college’s curricula, training programmes and educational facilities. They later visited the National Defense College (NDC) within the academy, where they were greeted by Rear Admiral Ali Abdullah Al Shidi and given a tour of the college’s departments and facilities.
Furthermore, the delegation visited the Centre for Strategic and Defence Studies at the Academy for Strategic and Defence Studies, where they were briefed on the centre’s roles and tasks. They learned about the various strategic and defence activities carried out by the centre, further enhancing their understanding of the institution’s contributions to the field.
The signing of the MoU between the two academies marks a significant step towards increased cooperation in the academic and scientific fields, paving the way for future collaborations and knowledge-sharing opportunities. This agreement is expected to benefit both institutions by facilitating joint research projects, exchange programmes and academic partnerships.
Visiting the CSC, NDC and Centre for Strategic and Defence Studies allowed the UK delegation to gain valuable insights into the training and educational programmes offered by the Academy for Strategic and Defence Studies. By familiarizing themselves with the facilities and departments of these institutions, they were able to better understand the capabilities and expertise of Omani military education.
Overall, the visit by the Deputy Commandant of the UK’s Defence Academy and his delegation provided a platform for fruitful discussions and exchanges of ideas between the two academies. The signing of the MoU and the various visits to key institutions within the Academy for Strategic and Defence Studies highlight the commitment of both parties to enhancing cooperation and collaboration in the academic and training fields. This partnership is expected to lead to increased knowledge-sharing and professional development opportunities for both institutions.