MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, joins the global celebration of World Maritime Women’s Day, observed annually on May 18.
This year’s theme, “Safe Horizons... Women Shaping the Future of Maritime Safety,” aims to highlight the remarkable achievements of women in the maritime sector, recognising them as essential partners in the journey of giving and building to drive development forward.
This occasion aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) December 2021 resolution designating May 18 as World Maritime Women’s Day to acknowledge women’s vital role in the maritime industry and empower them in this critical field across various specialities.
Khadija bint Mubarak al Siyabiyah, a Maritime Safety Specialist at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, stated that the current phase of the renewed renaissance witnesses the distinction of Omani women and their emergence in various sectors.
Women have assumed significant leadership positions in all fields, including the maritime sector, ranging from marine navigation and marine engineering to port management and logistics, alongside conducting advanced scientific research in this sector.
This underscores the broad attention given to empowering women in the maritime sector through the adoption of various initiatives aimed at providing training and qualification programmes for Omani women in different maritime fields to equip them with the necessary skills and experience.
The government also encourages companies and institutions, both public and private, to involve and offer job opportunities for women in the maritime sector, providing incentives and benefits to encourage them to engage in this field.
She added that the empowerment women have received in the maritime sector in the Sultanate of Oman has significantly contributed to the maritime economy. The sector today plays a fundamental role through national work axes, and the continuous expansion of women’s involvement in this sector directly enhances this aspect by positioning women prominently in maritime work.
Basima bint Hamad al Hashimiyah, Chief Officer of Maritime Navigation at Asyad Group, explained that working in the maritime sector is a great source of pride for Omani women and receives widespread attention from stakeholders in various related maritime sectors, whether governmental or private.
She noted that she and her colleagues feel proud to have a dedicated day for women working in the maritime sector, as designated by the IMO.
She said that celebrating this occasion in the Sultanate of Oman highlights its significance and contributes to enriching women’s capabilities, reflecting the role they play in their maritime work.
There is wide recognition of women, which has been reflected in the practical levels they have reached in the maritime sector, enriching their capabilities and continuously enhancing their potential to progress in this field. — ONA
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