Sidrah 4.0 graduates record cohort

BUSINESS REPORTER

MUSCAT, JAN 24

Sidrah, the leadership programme for young Omani women, has graduated its largest cohort to date, with 90 participants completing its fourth edition. The closing ceremony, held under the auspices of HH Sayyidah Hujaija bint Jaifer al Said, Chairperson of the Association for Children with Disabilities, underscored the growing national focus on women’s leadership, civic engagement and youth empowerment.

Delivered by Lahunna Oman in partnership with Outward Bound Oman, Sidrah 4.0 combined outdoor experiential learning, mentoring, professional coaching, online courses and knowledge-sharing sessions over five months for women aged 20–35. Participants also volunteered with more than 20 community organisations, supporting initiatives spanning education, entrepreneurship, wellness, youth development and environmental responsibility.

Abdulwahid bin Mohamed al Murshidi, CEO of Sohar International, said empowering young Omani women represents an investment in societal resilience and long-term economic vitality. “When women lead with confidence, integrity and purpose, the impact extends far beyond individual careers to communities and the national economy”, he noted.

Shatha bint Salim al Maskiry, Founder of Lahunna Oman, said the programme equips participants with the mindset and conviction to drive lasting social change, while Eng Ali al Lawati, Chief People & Technology Officer at OQ, described Sidrah as aligned with Oman Vision 2040 through its focus on developing national talent, particularly women leaders.

Participant feedback highlighted stronger leadership readiness, collaboration and career confidence. Outward Bound Oman Executive Director Andrew Hill said experiential learning played a key role in building resilience, teamwork and self-belief.

With this cohort, Sidrah has graduated 257 women across four editions. Alumnae have gone on to lead community initiatives, launch businesses and pursue careers that contribute to national development.