NIZWA: Dr Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information, spoke to staff and students of University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Nizwa on Monday.
The session was attended by Dr Said bin Hamad al Rubaie, head of the University.
Dr Al Harrasi said the future vision of the Ministry of Information is to enhance the presence of Omani values and culture in various media and to improve media content to keep pace with the global technological developments.
"We seek through the cultural programmes to convey a true image of our values and culture to a broader audience. Omani documentaries and films have earned many awards and many have praised their content. We are in the final stage of producing documentary films that will be unique in their content and will enrich the Omani cultural landscape. It will be accompanied by a book that tells this history."
The information minister spoke about the Omani media achievements presenting data and statistics from the ministry’s presence across multiple communication channels. He said the main goal of the ministry is to reinforce ethical standards within the media profession based on Oman Vision 2040.
He also reviewed the important roles performed by the Ministry of Information. It includes supervision of radio, television, print and digital media.
The Information Minister spoke about the principles of freedom of opinion and expression. He pointed out that freedom is available to all, but it must be within the bounds of constructive and purposeful criticism and not for the sake of criticism. He pointed out that freedom should be for the purpose of social development within defined boundaries.
The minister said graduates of UTAS are valuable resources for all government ministries. These ministries are committed to appointing qualified individuals to inform Omani society about their plans, policies, and the implementation of their initiatives and services. He pointed out the role played by the Government Communication Center in serving as a central platform in informing the public with all current developments.
Following the session, the minister inaugurated an exhibition, which included various scientific and artistic presentations of UTAS students.
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