Lakhasly

Oman has a rich and diverse background, as well as a heritage of international discovery. Since 1970, Oman has undergone solid economic growth and exceptional domestic stability. Profits from the oil and gas industry have primarily fueled economic development, which drives the economic system. However, there is a risk in the direction of growth; in the short term, the economic system is not creating sufficient employment for Omanis, whereas in the long-term, oil reserves will decline, and exploitation expenses will rise against a backdrop of volatile oil prices. Oman started to introduce an integrated and effective national science and technology system in keeping pace with the requirements of sustainable development. This system aimed to achieve and expand sustainable socio-economic well-being to ensure subsequent generations' future, which is reflected by increasing productivity, providing sustainable employment opportunities, and diversification (TRC 2019). In this context, the role of a knowledge-based economy relies on research and innovation to ensure a bright future for Oman today and for future generations and sustain Omani culture through successive generations.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The research aims to understand the GII point's calculation to link it with the factors that led to the sudden decline and identify any complex issue behind it. The influence of that report on the policies of Omani institutions will be analyzed to ascertain if those institutions take action. The overall objectives of this research are:

• To evaluate the possible factors that contribute to Oman's decline in GII.

• To investigate whether if there are any complex issues behind that decline

To analyze the consequences of this decline on policies implemented by Omani institutions linked to the indicators and the action taken in response to the sudden decline.

• To identify and evaluate the impact of this decline on public perception and their confidence level on innovation performance.

• To offer policy recommendations that target both the practitioners in charge of reporting indicators and the stakeholders who carry on the innovation practices.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The relevant research design is explanatory-descriptive, responding to the how and why aspects of the fundamental research problem, questions, and objectives. Data Collection Process: The data collection includes primary data using quantitative method (survey questionnaire instrument) and qualitative method (interview); and the secondary data using books, websites, and journals. There are several techniques for gathering data for research studies, which comprise primary and secondary data.

Primary data: This study performed interviews to collect data, ask questions related to the research problem, and distribute survey questionnaires for primary data collection. The researcher conducted online interviews with five knowledgeable specialists about Oman's decline in the GII ranking. For the Questionnaire the sample size consisted of 204 respondents, based on a total population of 430. The survey was created with Google Forms and sent using WhatsApp and e-mails. It consisted of 17 questions.

Secondary data: the researcher took advantage of MEC E-library (Masader and ProQuest E-book Central) and Academia and Research Gate.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion

This study considered four objectives and questions into account. Furthermore, it linked to the GII report from many perspectives to investigate the influence of such reports on government institutions, society, and the country's overall performance. Here, the researcher will report the outcomes that have been obtained for each objective.

1: The respondents highlighted that the country relies on a rentier economy and has not transformed its economy into a knowledge-based economy which affects by the crisis quickly and, the market has not evolved substantially and that there is weakness in economic power.

2: The government policies have not been amended or updated, and the rest of the countries are developing their policies and laws to be adequately assessed in these reports.

3: As per the study, it concluded that there are consequences of this decline on various government institutions. For example, TRC has launched several initiatives to raise public awareness, such as holding workshops to analyze the rapid drop in ranking.

4: The participants felt that these reports have a significant influence on society. If it is negative, the community will complain; if it is positive, the community will be optimistic. Therefore, according to experts, society plays an essential part in the report on GII.

Recommendations

The researcher would like to offer suggestions about critical aspects relating to national engagement, high-level collaboration, and a transformational strategy.

• National engagement: The relevant authorities must develop a specific compact for innovation to fulfill Oman's 2040 vision.

• High-level collaboration: It is essential to ensure good top-level coordination government to implement practical Science, Technology, and Innovation policies to increase Oman's economic growth and performance.

• Transformational Strategy: The researcher suggests developing a multi-stage comprehensive, transformative approach that lasts for the third quarter of 2022. The Minister Cabinet must make an effort to apply this strategy.

• Encourage innovation and entrepreneurship: To encourage entrepreneurial creativity among students and entrepreneurs, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Riyada, should implement several initiatives, such as training and support.