Oman's Children Culture Centre expands digital projects
Salwa bint Saif al Rashidi, director of the centre, said, 'The goal of these projects goes beyond visual presentation or technical entertainment. Rather, it aims to build a sustainable cognitive relationship between children and their cultural identity by re-presenting Omani heritage as a living, interactive experience.'
The centre's 2024 activities reached 35,603 beneficiaries, increasing to 39,383 from January to July this year. These initiatives combine culture, education and technology, using tools such as virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and electronic gaming to engage children.
'These projects are deeply aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and the cultural strategy, focusing on national identity, digital transformation and innovation-based education,' Salwa explained. The centre aims to empower children to contribute actively to the nation's future.
Among its digital projects are interactive games like 'Amber' and 'The Hunter', designed to preserve Omani cultural heritage and develop children's creative thinking and problem-solving skills in an engaging manner.
The project 'The Palm Tree and its Associated Practices: An Interactive Story of Date Harvesting (Al-Kharf)' employs VR to introduce children to the cultural and agricultural significance of the palm tree, which is recognised on Unesco's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Another key initiative is the 'Interactive Camel Racing Experience', which uses VR technology to simulate camel racing, a traditional sport. The project raises awareness of Oman's sporting heritage while providing a safe environment for users to experience the race.
The centre has also launched the 'Smart Children's Culture Center' project, incorporating AI, data analysis and remote control technologies.
This environmentally friendly model supports Oman's digital transformation and highlights childhood as central to building a knowledge-based, technological future. More digital projects are planned for release throughout the year.
Salwa emphasised the centre's role in presenting culture and education in ways that resonate with younger generations.
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