SALALAH, NOV 22
A vibrant display of creativity and innovation took centre stage at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) Salalah, as budding media professionals presented their projects during the annual ‘Mass Communication Day.’
The event featured a series of eye-catching student-produced visual projects, ranging from digital media content to journalistic works. Several success-story videos were also screened, highlighting award-winning projects at local and national levels, reflecting the students’ growing expertise in media production and digital content creation.
Organised under the auspices of Dr Mohammed bin Said al Shaashai, Director-General of Information in Dhofar Governorate, the open day drew participation from students, faculty, and representatives of media and community institutions.
Dr Ahmed bin Ali al Shahri, Assistant Vice-Chancellor, and Dr Majdi bin Mohammed Bait Ali Sulaiman, Deputy Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, were among the dignitaries present, alongside media professionals Salim bin Awadh al Najjar and communication academic Dr Ahmed bin Ali al Mashikhi.
Mehmet Tunc Mustecaplioglu, Area General Manager of Orascom Hotels Management, representing Salalah Beach Hotels, expressed readiness to offer training and employment opportunities to students. “As part of community engagement, I see opportunities for both parties. How it evolves depends on the capabilities and initiative of students and institutions,” he said.
Dr Majdi highlighted that ‘Mass Communication Day’ underscores the university’s commitment to fostering student creativity and translating academic learning into practical media projects. “Today’s presentations reflect our students’ academic and professional growth, and the cooperation agreement with Salalah Beach Hotels expands training and employment opportunities,” he added.
Opening the event, Dr Arafat bin Awadh al Jamil, Head of the Mass Communication Department, stressed the importance of integrating academic knowledge with practical training to prepare students for the media industry. “Mass Communication Day celebrates our students’ achievements and their innovative contributions to the sector,” he said.
A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion on the evolving media landscape in Oman, featuring insights from Salim bin Awadh al Najjar and Dr Ahmed bin Ali al Mashikhi. The discussion focused on sector transformations, required skills for media professionals, and career opportunities, with students actively engaging and posing questions about industry challenges and professional growth.
The event successfully spotlighted the vision, voice and future of Omani media, reinforcing the university’s role in nurturing the next generation of media professionals.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
