Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 28 | Page 15

NEWS Cisco working to develop digital talent in Oman T he rapid growth of the ICT industry in Oman is creating demand for digital, networking and cybersecurity skills. Narrowing the IT skills gap is an area where Cisco Networking Academy has been contributing significantly over the years by nurturing and developing talent for the digital era and driving initiatives to attract more young Omani students and graduates to pursue careers in technology. Shukri Eid, of Cisco Middle East, said: “Oman is currently undergoing a significant transition” At present there are more than 3,000 students enrolled with the Cisco Networking Academy in Oman, which has trained more than 15,000 students since its inception. With 71% of the enrolled students being female, to date Oman has the highest female participation rate in Cisco’s global IT skills and career building programme. Shukri Eid, Managing Director, East Region, Cisco Middle East, said: “Oman is currently undergoing a significant transition, with technology playing an increasingly important role as an enabler to the Sultanate’s economic diversification. “As a technology leader with a longstanding presence in Oman, Cisco will continue to contribute its digital transformation expertise to support the country’s journey to transform into a sustainable knowledge-based economy and digital society.” Over the last decade, Oman has made significant advancements in developing its technology infrastructure and capabilities in both the government and private sector. There are growing numbers of mobile and fixed Internet subscriptions in Oman, combined with a young population. ///////////////// Cisco appoints Ali Al Lawati as General Manager C isco has announced the appointment of Ali Al Lawati as General Manager for Oman. In his new role Al Lawati will work closely with public and private sector organisations to help enable their digital transformation journeys. The country-specific role amplifies Cisco’s commitment to supporting the development of the Sultanate’s digital ecosystem and technology infrastructure to meet the demands of the digital era. Over the years, Cisco has been collaborating with multiple stakeholders to help boost Oman’s digital transformation and contribute to Oman’s Vision 2040 objectives. www.intelligentcio.com qualified professionals are able to bring their experience and acute understanding of market dynamics,” said Shukri Eid, Managing Director, East Region, Cisco Middle East. “The high calibre of Omani human capital available is a testament to the Sultanate’s ability to link the educational system to the growing requirements of a modern labour force.” Ali Al Lawati has been appointed by Cisco as General Manager for Oman “Ali’s appointment reflects our commitment to developing local talent regionally, particularly in leadership roles where In his role, Ali will use the growing Cisco portfolio of solutions to strengthen collaboration with the Omani government and Cisco’s partner network to make sure the company remains the partner of choice for digitisation. INTELLIGENTCIO 15