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Observer
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Observer
Puppet theatre initiative to promote sustainable development in childhood
Muscat: The first phase of the Mobile Puppet Theatre Project was launched to promote sustainable development concepts in early childhood. The event was held under the auspices of Majid bin Said al Bahri, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Education for Administrative and Financial Affairs. The initiative was launched by the Ministry of Education, represented by the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, and the Omani Qatari Telecommunications Company (Ooredoo). The first phase targeted children aged three to six years in twenty schools in Muscat. It aimed to instil sustainable development concepts in early childhood through live, interactive, educational and entertaining theatrical performances using puppets. These performances covered various areas such as preserving natural resources, eradicating poverty, promoting health and education. The initiative also aimed to introduce young people to the art of puppet theatre and to benefit from the educational content provided through stories and theatrical performances. Additionally, the initiative was unique in its ability to move between different schools, as the puppets were designed in Omani school uniforms. Dr Mahmoud bin Abdullah al Abri, Secretary of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, emphasised that the Sultanate of Oman was among the first countries to submit its country initiative on education for sustainable development to Unesco. This initiative served as a national roadmap based on five main axes: policies, the educational environment, teachers, youth and the local community. The first phase targeted children aged three to six years in twenty schools in Muscat. The Ministry of Education, represented by the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, continued its efforts in this area by implementing numerous training workshops, seminars and awareness-raising projects in cooperation with regional and international partners. One notable effort was the preparation of a guide to promote sustainable development concepts in the school environment, in cooperation with the Unesco Regional Office in Doha. "The puppet theatre consists of 20 portable theatres that can be easily carried between schools and within schools. It includes four puppets and a collection of stories. In its first phase, it covers five Sustainable Development Goals related to education, eradicating hunger and poverty, health and gender equality," said Khalid al Maawali, Assistant Director of the Education Sector at the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science. Khawla al Amri, Chief People Officer at Ooredoo, said, "Although the entire world is paying great attention to digitisation and modern technologies, studies have warned of the dangers of children's exposure to screens and digital devices in their early years. However, it remains essential to develop their sensory, visual auditory, and motor skills to nurture their curiosity and enhance communication skills from their early formative years, limit their use of devices and provide them with more life skills."
Muscat Daily
10-02-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Oman marks day to honour its Unesco-recognised personalities
Muscat – Oman observed a special day on Monday to honour its globally influential personalities, recognised by Unesco. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Education through the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, designates February 10 as the annual day to remember Omani figures included in Unsco's list of influential personalities. This day is also significant as it marks the anniversary of Oman's accession to Unesco in 1972. The list of notable Omani personalities includes linguist Al Khalil bin Ahmed al Farahidi, added in 2005; physician and pharmacist Rashid bin Omaira al Rustaqi, recognised in 2013; social reformer Sheikh Nooreddin al Salmi and physician Abu Mohammed Abdullah al Azdi, both listed in 2015; poet Nassir bin Salim al Rawahi, included in 2019; and navigator Ahmed bin Majid, known as the Lion of the Sea, who was added in 2021. The day honours the contributions of Omani figures who have made a mark both locally and internationally in their chosen fields. Oman's inclusion of six distinguished individuals and two significant cultural events in Unesco's programme underscores the country's rich heritage. Unesco has also recognised two key cultural milestones of Oman in its list of anniversaries for 2024-25. These include the 350th anniversary of Jibreen Castle and the 150th death anniversary of historian and poet Humaid bin Mohammed bin Ruzaiq. Jibreen Castle, a 17th-century structure, stands as a testament to Oman's architectural and cultural legacy. The anniversary of Ruzaiq's passing commemorates his role in documenting Oman's history from the rise of the Al Busaid dynasty to the end of Sayyid Said bin Sultan's reign in 1856. The observance of this day highlights the lasting influence of Omani personalities and cultural landmarks on both the national and global stage.
Observer
08-02-2025
- Politics
- Observer
Preserving heritage: Oman's roads, landmarks honour its legacy
MUSCAT: The tradition of naming Omani roads and landmarks after historical figures reflects the vision of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik in safeguarding the nation's rich heritage while reinforcing national identity and values. Throughout the ages, Oman has maintained deep historical roots, with a legacy stretching back thousands of years. Omanis have played a vital role in shaping various fields and the country's human and intellectual contributions remain integral to its identity, strengthened by its strategic geographic position and cultural exchanges with global civilisations. To honour this legacy, Royal directives have led to the naming of major roads after prominent Omani Sultans. These names serve as more than just traffic markers — they are enduring symbols of the country's historical and cultural depth. Among the notable designations: Sultan Thuwaini bin Said Road links the governorates of Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, and Al Buraimi. Sultan Turki bin Said Road is now the official name of the Sharqiyah Expressway. Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road connects Khasab, Lima and Dibba in the Musandam Governorate. Sultan Taimur bin Faisal Road runs along the Al Batinah Coastal region. Sultan Said bin Taimur Road links Nizwa to Salalah. Sultan Qaboos Road serves as the main route between Muscat and Al Batinah. Preserving heritage: Oman's roads, landmarks honour its legacy These roads join a long list of educational institutions, military bases, schools, mosques and scientific halls that bear the names of Omani leaders — each a tribute to their contributions. Dr Mahmoud bin Abdullah al Abri, Secretary of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, emphasised the significance of these names. 'These are not merely traffic signs but bridges connecting future generations to Oman's storied past, reinforcing national identity and belonging,' he said. Naming roads after Omani Sultans serves as a historical reminder of their role in shaping the nation. For centuries, Oman has been a hub of cultural and commercial exchange, emerging as a maritime and intellectual powerhouse. The presence of these names on the landscape ensures that their influence is never forgotten. This initiative also fosters historical awareness among younger generations, encouraging them to explore the lives of leaders who spearheaded Oman's Renaissance. By embedding history into Oman's architectural and cultural fabric, the initiative strengthens the link between heritage and sustainable development. Dr Mohammed bin Saeed al Muqaddam, a researcher in Omani history, noted that this tradition extends beyond roads. 'Many schools across Oman are named after prominent Sultans and Imams, such as Turki bin Said School, Nasser bin Murshid School and Ahmed bin Said School, among others,' he explained. Similarly, mosques like Al Muhallab bin Abi Sufra Mosque, Al Midmar Mosque, and Sultan Said bin Taimur Mosque bear historical significance. More than just a commemoration, this initiative serves as an open invitation to learn from Oman's past, fostering pride and appreciation for its cultural legacy. By preserving the national memory, Oman ensures that future generations remain connected to the leaders who shaped its history.
Muscat Daily
08-02-2025
- Politics
- Muscat Daily
Oman names landmarks after iconic leaders
Muscat – Oman is reaffirming its commitment to preserving its cultural and historical heritage by naming key roads and landmarks after prominent Omani leaders. Experts say this initiative reflects the vision of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, promoting national values, identity, and a sense of belonging. According to historians, this practice is deeply rooted in Oman's rich past, highlighting its contributions across various fields and reinforcing its unique identity. The decision to name major roads after influential figures serves as a bridge connecting present and future generations to their heritage, ensuring that Oman's historical legacy remains alive. With a history spanning thousands of years, Oman has played an important role in regional and global affairs. Its leaders have contributed intellectually, economically, and politically, shaping the nation's cultural and strategic standing. Among the newly renamed roads, Sultan Thuwaini bin Said Road links Muscat, Dakhliyah, Dhahirah, and Buraimi, while Sultan Qaboos Road connects Muscat to Batinah. Other major routes now bear the names of Sultan Faisal bin Turki, Sultan Taimur bin Faisal, and other key figures, celebrating the Al Busaidi dynasty's enduring impact. Dr Mahmoud bin Abdullah al Abri, Secretary of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, praised the initiative, emphasising its role in strengthening national identity. He noted that these names are more than just designations. They serve as historical symbols that reinforce a collective sense of belonging and encourage deeper engagement with Oman's past. 'These roads are not just pathways; they are historical bridges that connect Omanis to their roots, allowing present and future generations to appreciate the leaders who played pivotal roles in shaping the country's progress.' Echoing this sentiment, historian Dr Badriya bint Mohammed al Nabhani underscored that naming roads after Oman's sultans is a tribute to their contributions to national unity and strength. She explained that these designations foster pride, preserve Oman's cultural landscape, and enhance public awareness of the figures who influenced the nation's development. Professor Dr Saif bin Nasser al Maamari, Head of the Department of Curricula and Teaching at Sultan Qaboos University, said that this initiative aligns with broader efforts to instill national pride. He pointed out that the Royal Directives serve to strengthen Oman's identity by embedding its history into its infrastructure, while ensuring that cultural heritage remains an integral part of daily life. Researcher Dr Bahiya bint Saeed al Adhoubi applauded the move, stating that it goes beyond infrastructure development – it actively preserves Oman's historical narrative. She suggested integrating educational programmes and interactive tools, such as smart road panels, to further enhance public awareness of Oman's rich past. 'This initiative is not just about naming roads; it is about documenting history,' Bahiya said.
Observer
08-02-2025
- Politics
- Observer
Naming of roads, landmarks: Commitment to preserving history, culture
Muscat - Naming Omani leaders and figures after achievements and landmarks in the Sultanate of Oman reflects the vision of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik in preserving the ancient Omani cultural and historical heritage and promoting national values and identity. Anyone observing this scene throughout the ages will find the historical roots of Oman, as it possesses a long-standing legacy that extends back thousands of years, which Omanis contributed to shaping various fields, and the human and intellectual dimension became an essential part of the national identity, strengthening its strategic geographical location and its interaction with other human civilizations. The royal directives came to name some of the main roads in the Sultanate of Oman with historical national names, as this has a civilized dimension that immortalizes the ancient history of Oman. The name of Sultan Thuwaini bin Said was given to the road linking the governorates of Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, and Al Buraimi, the name of Sultan Turki bin Said was given to the Sharqiyah Expressway, the name of Sultan Faisal bin Turki was given to the Khasab-Lima-Daba Road in Musandam Governorate, the name of Sultan Taimur bin Faisal was given to the Al Batinah Coastal Road, the name of Sultan Said bin Taimur was given to the Nizwa-Salalah Road, and the name of Sultan Qaboos was given to the Muscat- al Batinah Road, to be added to a series of landmarks bearing the names of the early Omani figures, including camps, military bases, schools, mosques and scientific halls in educational institutions. Dr. Mahmoud bin Abdullah al Abri, Secretary of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, points out the high directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik al Said. These names are not just traffic signs, but rather bridges that connect current and future generations to the ancient history of their homeland, and enhance national identity and belonging. He added that naming strategic roads after Omani Sultans sends a clear message that embodies the pivotal role played by these leaders in shaping Omani history. Throughout the ages, Oman has been a center for cultural and commercial communication and emerged as a maritime and cultural power that influenced its regional and international surroundings. Accordingly, the names of these Sultans remind citizens, residents, and visitors of their prominent contributions to building the state and consolidating its position from an intellectual and humanitarian perspective. This step contributes to enhancing community awareness of the country's history and motivates young people to research and delve into the personalities who carried the banner of the Renaissance in different periods. This initiative employs the symbolic dimension of history in the architectural and cultural landscape, which enhances the value of historical knowledge, which represents an integral part of sustainable development. He stressed that this step has a deep cultural dimension, as it is not just a commemoration of historical symbols, but rather an open invitation to draw lessons from the past and enhance the spirit of pride and appreciation for the Omani identity, which contributes to preserving the national memory and passing it on to future generations. Dr. Mohammed bin Saeed al Muqaddam, a researcher in Omani historical affairs, says that the royal directives regarding naming roads are an extension of naming some landmarks in the Sultanate of Oman after the Sultans of Oman. He explained that this trend, which was established a long time ago, comes in a civilized context to introduce Omani history. "We can mention some schools in the governorates of the Sultanate of Oman that bear the names of prominent Omani sultans and imams, such as Turki bin Said School, Nasser bin Murshid School, Ahmed bin Said School, Said bin Taimur School, Faisal bin Turki School, Taimur bin Faisal School, Sayyida Maizoon bint Ahmed School, and Ahmed bin Majid School, in addition to mosques, Al Muhallab bin Abi Sufra mosque and Al-Midmar Mosque in Samayil, which is associated with the first person to convert to Islam from the people of Oman, the great companion Mazen bin Ghadoba, and Sultan Said bin Taimur Mosque, Sayyida Fatima bint Salem Mosque, Sayyid Tariq bin Taimur Mosque, Azzan bin Qais Mosque, and Abdullah bin Ibadh Mosque.
