Oman

Workshop promotes global citizenship in Oman

 
Muscat, October 1

The Sultan Qaboos Higher Centre for Culture and Science organised a workshop titled 'Education for Global Citizenship', as part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the importance of global citizenship among school students in Oman.

The workshop targeted students from grades 10 to 12, with 50 students participating from second-cycle schools over two days. It was held in the lecture hall of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and was led by Buthaina al Qasmiyah, a trainer in the Educational Leadership Department at the Specialised Institute for Vocational Training for Teachers.

The workshop aimed to raise awareness of the importance of education for global citizenship, with a focus on instilling and enhancing the concept of Omani identity on the global stage. The workshop covered several themes, including an introduction to the concept of education for citizenship and the importance of preserving Omani identity, in addition to the need to enhance Oman's global presence.

It was highlighted that global citizenship refers to the Earth as a common home for all, which must be preserved, noting that all humans are part of one human family, founded on values of tolerance and mutual respect for each culture's unique identity.

The workshop also focused on the role of Oman Vision 2040 in keeping pace with sustainable development requirements, emphasising the need to equip modern Omani citizens to interact with the outside world while preserving their Omani identity based on Islamic values. During the workshop, practical models for applying global citizenship education in classrooms were presented, with a spotlight on the use of innovative educational methods that contribute to building a conscious generation capable of navigating globalisation while maintaining Omani authenticity and values.

Al Qasmiyah showcased several educational strategies that help raise awareness of the importance of adapting to global changes while preserving local values. The session concluded with recommendations aimed at increasing the activation of global citizenship education in schools, contributing to the graduation of a generation of Omani students with high ambitions, capable of facing global challenges without compromising their identity and cultural values.

Hamada Jumaa, a history teacher, stated that the importance of the workshop lies in instilling a sense of belonging to the nation in students and educating them about the difference between a good citizen and a bad one, especially in light of contemporary challenges such as cultural invasion and the distancing from authentic Omani societal values. He noted that the students have learned much about these values and how firmly the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos held to them despite the modernisation of society. Jumaa affirmed that Omanis remain committed to their authentic values and ethics deeply rooted in Omani society since ancient times, which distinguishes them and ensures the continuity of the genuine Omani identity.