SALALAH, AUG 28
A regional forum in sustainable green heritage opened in Salalah on Monday under the auspices of Eng Ibrahim bin Said bin Khalaf al Kharousi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage.
In a keynote address, Amnat bint Salem al Balushiyah, Secretary of the Omani National Committee for Education, Culture, and Science, highlighted the importance of culture in sustainable development and human well-being. She stressed the need for cultural and heritage strategies that promote understanding and peace.
Al Balushi also acknowledged the role of Unesco, ISESCO, and AECSO in supporting cultural initiatives. She commended the efforts of Member States in safeguarding heritage and conserving natural resources.
The highlight was a paper by Eng Faiza bint Mohammed al Harthiyah of Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Office, affirming the critical role of the Oman Vision 2040 in providing inspiration for the sustenance of the nation’s green culture and heritage.
"Oman Vision 2040 envisions a future where sustainability is at the forefront, fostering a developed and diversified Sultanate of Oman. Among its cornerstones, the promotion of green culture and heritage stands tall," said the official.
She elaborated, "Green culture embodies the values and practices that advocate for environmental preservation and sustainability. From waste reduction to harnessing renewable resources, green culture encompasses responsible practices. Heritage, in contrast, encapsulates the cultural legacy of a people or place, encompassing traditions, customs, and architectural marvels."
Eng Faiza’s comprehensive working paper delved into the profound implications of green culture and heritage for Oman’s sustainable future. It underscored the vital role these elements play in realising the vision's objectives.
"By citing instances such as the sustainable falaj irrigation practice, we spotlight the fusion of green culture and sustainable methods. This traditional Omani approach employs gravity to distribute water, bypassing energy-intensive technologies," she noted.
"Moreover, the paper underscores the social fabric woven by green culture and heritage. By fostering a sense of belonging and pride in our natural resources, these practices empower citizens to become stewards of the environment," the official emphasised.
Oman's rich green culture and heritage emerge as invaluable assets, the official pointed out. “They hold the power to drive sustainability, shaping a promising future for our beloved nation."
The Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Office, she stressed, is steadfast in its commitment to champion green culture and heritage. “Collaborating with governmental bodies, businesses, and civil society organisations, the office seeks to elevate awareness about the pivotal role of sustainability. It is actively devising initiatives to inspire the embrace of green practices," she added in conclusion.
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