The Workshop on Enhancing & Regulating Connectivity recently concluded with a call to ensure that the Sultanate is at the forefront in the future of the digital world. The two-day workshop was organized by the auditing and consulting firm Crowe and saw participation from representatives of various telecom organizations in Oman. The Vice President of TRA, Omar Al Qatabi, was the guest of honour at the event. The workshop focused on the importance of staying ahead in the digital world, given the transformative nature of digital technology in our lives.
Davis Kallukaran, managing partner of Crowe Oman, emphasized the significance of digital technology in shaping future opportunities and services. He highlighted the need for financial resources, oversight, and collective efforts to ensure Oman’s strong position in the digital world. The workshop discussed the massive increase in data transmission, the rise of mobile telecommunications infrastructure like 5G, cloud systems, and data analytics, leading to a new era of big data and large transaction volumes. The challenges of measuring and accounting for these developments were also brought to light.
During the workshop, Anna Coast, a finance professional specializing in regulatory consultations, emphasized the importance of understanding the changing dynamics of cost drivers, technology solutions, and evolving business models in the communication industry. She discussed the regulatory frameworks needed for stability and provided insight into the investment required in traditional network assets, operating costs, and intangible assets like spectrum. Michael Byrne, an expert on regulation and competition law, explored the evolving role of regulators at national and international levels, shedding light on the complexities of regulatory frameworks.
Prof. Hanna Rothkaehl, a senior space scientist from Poland, delved into the impact of space research on connectivity, emphasizing the significance of understanding the space sector economy, measuring it, and assessing market opportunities and risks. Paul Kallukaran, Head of Technology at Crowe Oman, concluded the workshop by thanking the speakers and attendees for their valuable contributions. The discussions at the workshop highlighted the importance of staying ahead in the digital world and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in terms of technology, regulation, and connectivity.
