BSA conducts training programme for Omani officials tackling software piracy threat

The training was conducted in cooperation with Business Software Alliance (BSA), the foremost organisation dedicated to promoting a safe and legal digital world. The move comes as part of the ministry`s joint efforts with BSA to bring down piracy rate in the Sultanate.

The training was aimed at equipping the task force, which is responsible for carrying out investigations against companies suspected or found to be in breach of IPR (Intellectual Property Rights) laws, with the necessary skills to perform their duties efficiently, with a special focus on how to distinguish between original and pirated software. The training program was the latest in a series of exercises conducted by BSA in the region to educate the authorities on educating and raising awareness of concerned officials.

"The ministry has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to boost the anti-piracy drive which includes awareness programmes, training initiatives and stricter enforcement of IPR laws," said Omar Faisal Al-Gahadami, Director of Consumer Protection Department, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Oman. "Through this training program, we seek to become more acquainted with the ways and means to easily identify pirated software, thus lending further impetus to the country's efforts to curb the threat of software piracy."

Jawad Al Redha, Co-Chairman, BSA Middle East, said, "One of the pre-requisites to an effective anti-piracy strategy involves ensuring that investigating officers gain sufficient expertise to perform their responsibilities efficiently, and we find the Omani authorities' efforts in this direction very encouraging. We commend the Omani authorities for their continued efforts to bring down piracy rate in the country, and call upon more governmental authorities in the region to organise similar training and awareness programmes."

Oman has lately stepped up its campaign against software piracy, as part of its efforts to attract foreign investment to the country and create more employment opportunities. Awareness campaigns are regularly organised highlighting the detrimental effects of piracy.