Latest news with #OurSummer:HeritageandIdentity


Muscat Daily
28-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
National Museum of Oman takes cultural learning beyond its walls
Muscat – Affiliated to National Museum of Oman, the Learning Centre at Al Mouj Muscat has attracted more than 3,600 participants since its launch in 2023, offering a model for cultural outreach and museum-based learning in the sultanate. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand the museum's engagement with the wider community by offering educational and cultural experiences outside its main premises. The centre employs interactive methods inspired by the museum's collections, combining education, art and entertainment to reach diverse audiences, including children, families, university students and international visitors. Amina bint Abdullah al Abri, Head of Learning Centre Department at National Museum, said the branch in Al Mouj Muscat offers a dual educational experience for visitors of different nationalities and contributes to expanding the museum's target audience. 'It hosts a variety of activities, including art workshops for adults, training sessions for university and college students, and theatrical performances for children,' she said. Among the centre's programmes is 'Storyteller' – a six-part series highlighting the lives of historical Omani figures across centuries, targeting young readers and first-cycle students. In addition, the centre offers art-based programmes designed specifically for persons with disabilities, aimed at fostering inclusion and enhancing access to cultural education. With the support of BP Oman, the centre held a summer programme titled 'Our Summer: Heritage and Identity' from July 13 to 24. The two-week programme featured art workshops inspired by Omani heritage, allowing students to create projects using materials such as paper, clay, fabric and colours. It aimed to deepen understanding of national identity and connect young participants with Oman's historical symbols and traditions. The Learning Centre is the first of its kind in Oman. Built to international standards, it runs a range of programmes including school visits, university and college workshops, family sessions, continuing education and public awareness events. The museum's outreach through the Al Mouj centre reflects growing demand for accessible cultural education and affirms its role in bringing heritage learning to a wider audience.


Muscat Daily
07-07-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
National Museum launches summer initiative
Muscat – National Museum of Oman has launched its annual summer initiative – Our Summer: Heritage and Identity – aimed at enhancing awareness of national identity and strengthening the connection of youngsters with Omani cultural heritage. Organised by the museum's Learning Centre, the initiative seeks to instil a sense of national identity among young people and enhance their appreciation of Oman's cultural legacy through interactive and educational activities. The programme targets three age groups – children between six and 11 years, school students aged 12 to 16, and college and university students. Throughout the month of July, participants will engage in a series of creative and artistic workshops inspired by the museum's permanent collections. The activities aim to nurture creative thinking, promote cultural awareness and encourage a deeper connection with national heritage. Speaking at the launch, Amina bint Abdullah al Abriyah, Head of the Learning Centre, noted that the programme is part of the centre's ongoing efforts to support cultural education. She emphasised the importance of presenting heritage in an innovative and engaging manner that combines artistic expression with historical learning. 'This initiative reflects our commitment to shaping a generation that understands and values its identity through both imagination and exploration,' she said. As part of its wider community outreach, National Museum is also participating in a programme called 'Our Summer: Leadership and Creativity' in North Batinah. Held in collaboration with North Batinah Governor's Office, the initiative runs from July 6 to 10 and features workshops conducted in Suhar, Liwa, Shinas, Saham, Khabourah and Suwaiq. Expected to benefit around 240 participants, the activities cover various themes such as traditional Omani architecture, maritime history and visual arts. The Muscat-based phase of the programme for children aged six to 11 is being held at the National Museum headquarters from July 6 to 10. Activities for school students aged 12 to 16 will take place from July 13 to 17, followed by sessions for college and university students from July 20 to 24 at the Learning Centre's dedicated space in Al Mouj Muscat, with a total of 260 individuals expected to take part. The Learning Centre at National Museum, the first of its kind in the sultanate, has been designed to meet the highest international standards. It offers a range of specialised programmes that cater to schools, higher education institutions, families, individuals with disabilities, and the wider community. It also hosts the museum's acclaimed children's literature series. Through such initiatives, the museum continues to enhance its role as a vital educational and cultural institution, supporting national efforts to preserve identity and celebrate Oman's enduring heritage.