Soft skills training programme help job seekers
In an era where creativity, communication and innovation define the workforce, the Clubs Cultural Creativity Competition 2024–2025 in Al Batinah North has emerged as more than just a cultural initiative but rather launched to develop future-ready youth.
Organised by the General Directorate of Culture, Sports and Youth in Al Batinah North, under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, the competition continues to equip young Omanis with essential soft and technical skills aligned with today's job market demands.
As the second phase of the competition unfolds, young participants are not only showcasing artistic talent, but also building critical competencies such as public speaking, entrepreneurship, media literacy and creative expression, skills that employers increasingly value.
This week's events featured intense contests in Nabati poetry, classical Arabic poetry, vocal performance and music. These disciplines sharpen communication, emotional intelligence, linguistic precision and cultural literacy, key ingredients for success in media, education and creative industries.
Winners included Badr al Sinani from Al Khabourah Club in poetry and Salem al Marzouqi from Saham Club in vocal performance, reflecting the diverse range of youth excellence in the governorate.
Khalifa al Balushi, Head of the Competition Committee in Al Batinah North, highlighted the developmental impact of the initiative. 'These competitions are vital for preparing youth to meet the challenges of modern career landscapes and also to preserve our heritage and culture. Whether it's debating, presenting ideas, performing artistically, or launching innovative solutions, the experiences here build real-world confidence and transferable skills that open doors professionally.'
Earlier rounds included competitions in debate, sports commentary and innovation and entrepreneurship, areas directly connected to job market trends.
Arwa al Balushi from Al Suwaiq Club won the debate category, while Majees Club topped the innovation and entrepreneurship section, emphasising the link between creative thinking and economic opportunity.
The ministry's vision behind this competition is clear: to create inclusive spaces that empower young Omanis, enhance their employability and position them as active contributors to national development. These competitions act as incubators for potential, enabling youth to transform raw talent into tangible outcomes.
As Oman moves towards global success, initiatives like the Clubs Cultural Creativity Competition ensure that cultural engagement isn't just about preserving heritage but about building the future workforce, one idea at a time, to be successful in all fields with self-confident youth able to transfer knowledge into products worldwide.
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