Latest news with #NorthBatinah
Muscat Daily
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Muscat Daily
North Batinah launches youth platform to boost civic engagement
Suhar – North Batinah has launched a dedicated platform, called Shabab, to empower young Omanis and support sustainable development efforts across the governorate. Announced by North Batinah Governor's Office, the platform aims to promote innovation, dialogue and civic engagement, serving as a link between the youth and government institutions. It seeks to support youth-led initiatives, encourage creative thinking and involve young people in decision-making processes in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. Shabab is part of a wider strategy to enhance the role of youth in driving development across the governorate. The platform is expected to create an environment that promotes collaboration across sectors and helps unlock the potential of young people. According to the governor's office, Shabab will focus on enhancing youth participation in sustainable development, improving communication within communities, and promoting dialogue on development projects. It also aims to support development of innovative ideas for municipal work and provide tools to help youth make tangible contributions to society. The platform will also work to identify and invest in local talent and promote a culture of creativity. Evaluating youth-led initiatives for impact and sustainability is a key component of the initiative. Volunteerism is another central focus, with the platform encouraging youth participation in community projects as a form of civic responsibility. Youth ambassadors will also be appointed to promote Oman Vision 2040 and other strategic initiatives in their communities. The governor's office said the platform offers an opportunity for youth to share ideas, raise concerns and engage in discussions about the challenges they face. 'This initiative reflects the governorate's commitment to giving young people a voice in shaping the future and contributing to national development,' a statement added.
Muscat Daily
25-02-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Development Bank gives RO18.8mn in loans to education sector
Muscat – Development Bank granted 509 loans worth RO18.8mn in 2024 to strengthen Oman's education sector and encourage private investment. The funding supports various segments, including general education, university projects, private training services, and kindergartens. The general secondary education sector received the highest share, with 13 loans totalling RO3.6mn. A single project in the university and college sector secured a loan of RO3.5mn, while training services and kindergartens received RO588,000 and RO257,000, respectively. Muscat accounted for the largest portion of the funding, receiving RO8.3mn, or 65% of the total, followed by North Sharqiyah with RO2.3mn (18%) and North Batinah with RO1.1mn (9%). Yousef bin Mohammed al Awini, Director of SME Financing at Development Bank, said it is committed to supporting the education sector, which has been a priority since its inception. 'Our financial support, through subsidised interest rates and flexible loan terms, aims to drive educational growth and stimulate private sector participation,' he added.
