Nouf bint Abdul Hamid Al Shamli, a student at Sultan Qaboos University, is using her studies in statistics, data science and computer science to develop an artificial intelligence-supported education platform. She is a founding partner of Elmfy, which is designed to personalise university learning and improve academic efficiency. The platform has also moved beyond Oman through several pilot projects.

Al Shamli said her choice of subjects reflects the way modern technology depends on data, mathematical analysis and programming. Statistics helps identify patterns and assess trends, while computer science provides the tools needed to turn those findings into working systems. She said responsible AI use also requires people to ask the right questions, understand the field in which the technology is applied and consider its effect on users.

The idea for Elmfy began when Al Shamli found some academic material difficult to understand through conventional teaching methods. She and a technical colleague began developing a learning experience that could adjust to different students instead of relying on one standard approach. The work also required her to learn about marketing, branding, budgeting, financial planning and communication with users, investors and partners.

Elmfy has participated in exhibitions and competitions in Oman and abroad, including the Falling Walls competition in Berlin last year. Al Shamli also received an Early Problem Detection award, which she said reinforced the need to understand a problem properly before proposing a solution. She believes education, healthcare, infrastructure and tourism offer strong openings for young Omanis who can combine technical knowledge with a clear understanding of local needs.