Mother’s Day without mothers: My first teacher
Today May 11, Mother’s Day arrives with a weight I have never carried before. It is the first time I will not be celebrating with my mother — not because of distance or circumstance, but because...
The changing landscape of disability in Oman
Two years ago, the Ministry of Social Development organised the first national symposium dedicated to people with disabilities - a landmark event signalling a shift in how disability is viewed and...
In praise of books that whisper secrets
Even before I turned five, I ran away from home — not in rebellion, but in search of magic. I had heard there was a bookstore nearby, and I simply had to find it. I remember the sunlight bouncing...
Why SQU must prioritise critical thinking for student success
Teaching critical thinking to Omani students, particularly at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), has been both rewarding and revealing. Despite their intelligence and motivation, many students face...
A celebration of tradition and digital innovation
Eid in Oman is a time of joy, community and deep-rooted traditions, but in recent years, it has also become a moment of digital expression. One of the most anticipated aspects of Eid in Oman is the...
Regret-proofing life: Lessons from Ramadhan
Regret is a universal human experience, a lingering shadow of the past that can haunt our present. Yet, is it possible to live in a way that minimises regret? Both the Holy Quran and Western thinkers...
Opinion- Ramadhan’s discipline: A lesson in self-reliance
Every year, Ramadhan arrives as a spiritual retreat, a time of self-restraint, reflection and renewal. While it is primarily a month of fasting and devotion, I have come to see Ramadhan as the...
I’ve got the POWA
One of the most influential self-development books I have encountered is The Concise 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene. This book serves as a manual for navigating the complex dynamics of power and...
Opinion - Social media and myths about Omanis
Many people believe that social media has had a negative impact on Omani society, reinforcing harmful misconceptions and stereotypes. However, social media has actually played a vital role in helping...
Opinion- What I have learned from world leaders
As the US approaches a new era under a different political landscape, it is valuable to reflect on the lessons imparted by prominent figures who have shaped the world over the past decade. The...
Sleeping in storms...
The years 2020-2024 are ones that many of us will remember for a lifetime - years that changed everything. The global Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting economic collapse reshaped our lives in ways...
Arabic language fosters innovative thinking...
The Arabic language, with its rich structure and unique grammatical features, offers significant insight into how language can shape and foster innovative thinking, particularly in the domains of...
Opinion- Resilience and renewal: Lessons for the New Year
As the year turns anew, we often find ourselves between hope and exhaustion, ambition and despair. For many of us, the weight of past struggles threatens to dampen the promise of fresh beginnings.This...
Celebrating teaching and the joy of learning
Graduation day at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) celebrates achievement, growth and the boundless potential of young minds. This annual event is a milestone for students and a poignant moment for...
Disability inclusion via social media, advocacy
As we mark Disability Awareness Month this December, it is essential to reflect on the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities globally. This month serves as a reminder...
Oman-Japan: Bridging cultures, building futures
The Japanese Embassy in Oman has been a cornerstone of cultural diplomacy, fostering deep ties between the two nations.Its contributions transcend traditional diplomatic functions, creating platforms...
The evolving impact of boycott in Oman
The writer is Associate Professor, Sultan Qaboos UniversityAS we mark the first anniversary of the boycott against several globally recognised companies in Oman due to their perceived political...
The legacy of boycotts in Oman and Arab world
The practice of food boycotts holds a unique place within Arab society, particularly in Oman, as a longstanding cultural tool for expressing dissent and community solidarity. Historically, food...
Challenges of learning English
Arab learners, including Omani students at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), face distinct challenges when learning English. These difficulties stem from linguistic, cultural, and pedagogical factors,...
A tribute to the resilience of Omani and expat women
As Oman celebrates Omani Women’s Day on October 17, our hearts swell with pride for the women of our nation.From educators to baristas, Omani women have made their mark across sectors, contributing...