MANAH: The Wilayat of Manah celebrated the conclusion of the 'Confident Steps' initiative on Monday at the Office of the Wali of Manah, under the auspices of Shaikh Rashid bin Ahmed al Shamsi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development for Family Affairs and Community Development. The ceremony was attended by officials, educators, parents and participating students.
The event marked the end of a journey that began in October 2025 and continued until May 2026, with the goal of empowering students to build confident, balanced, and independent personalities capable of facing future challenges with awareness and self-assurance.
Shaikha bint Suleiman al Mahrouqi, head of the Omani Women's Association in Manah, stated, "Today we celebrate the conclusion of the second edition of the 'Confident Steps' initiative, implemented in collaboration with social workers in Manah schools. The initiative aimed to equip students with the confidence and leadership skills necessary to move towards the future with determination and ambition. It focused on strengthening students' self-confidence, communication skills and social interaction, while encouraging them to express their opinions, actively participate in school and community activities and develop leadership qualities from an early age."
The initiative involved nominating selected students based on specific criteria, followed by guidance sessions, workshops, and programmes supervised by social specialists and educators. Students were then evaluated through continuous assessments to compete at the school level.
Targeting male and female students from Grade 3 to Grade 11 in schools across Manah, the initiative aimed to develop dialogue and interpersonal communication skills, enhance teamwork and responsibility, and support students in building stronger and more confident personalities.
The ceremony included various performances, such as a welcoming dance and a theatrical operetta highlighting the history and cultural identity of the Wilayat Manah. An exhibition showcased student projects and creative works from different schools in the wilayat, reflecting students' talents and innovative ideas.
Abdullah bin Salim al Hashemi, a Social Worker at Malik Bin Fahm Boys School, stated, "The initiative had a noticeable impact on students' personalities and their ability to communicate confidently both inside and outside the classroom. The continuous support and cooperation from parents significantly contributed to the programme's success."
Several participating students expressed their happiness and appreciation for being part of the initiative. Aseel bint Hilal al Busaidy said, "The initiative helped me become more confident, improved my public speaking and communication skills and encouraged me to engage more actively with others. The experience allowed us to build friendships, discover our abilities, and take greater responsibility in school and daily life." The initiative was carried out by social workers in schools across the Wilayat of Manah under the supervision of the Social Guidance Supervisors at the Department of Career Guidance and Student Counselling at the Directorate-General of Education in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, in collaboration with the Omani Women's Association in Manah.
The ceremony concluded with the honouring of participating students, organisers, and supporters in recognition of their efforts and contributions to the success of the initiative.
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