A bird needs two wings to soar high and so does a society. Men and women are the wings that propel the society forward on the path to development. The Omani society, too, has understood this and hence strives to give equal opportunities to both men and women.

Be it social, economical or political development, women today have a role to play in every field. Studies show that women empowerment is directly linked to the prosperity and development of a country.

Oman too has been witnessing this prosperity, thanks to the vision of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said who ensured that women are given the chance to deliver and show the world their strength.

Over the decades, women in the sultanate have been provided ample safety, security, equality and opportunities to excel in every domain of their interests.

Work places, colleges and universities have always extended their full support to help Omani women flourish and realise their potential.

Women are at the helm of a number of professions today. The newly formed ministries of Arts Affairs and the Ministry of Technology and Communications are a testament to this fact. Both ministries are being led by women ministers and it shows the level of trust HM the Sultan and the country has in them.

As the country celebrates Omani Women’s Day, Muscat Daily spoke to women achievers from diverse fields on their journeys and vision.

H E Dr Rawiyah al Busaidiya

Minister of Higher Education 

As we celebrate Omani women’s day today, we thank women for their active presence in various cultural, social, political and humanitarian fields.

Their prominent presence throughout successive periods of history has only increased through the years of Blessed Renaissance under the gracious patronage of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. His Majesty the Sultan’s high confidence in Omani women has been mentioned in many of his speeches.

Oman has paid full attention to the participation of Omani women in the march of the Blessed Renaissance, providing them with opportunities for education, training and employment, and supporting their role and position in society. We stress the need for women to contribute in all areas of development, and we are pleased with the rights guaranteed and the duties entrusted on them. This enables them to achieve and improve their skills needed to develop their homeland. The number of women has increased in many development sectors including higher education.
 

H H Sayyida Hujaija Jaifer al Said Chairperson, Association for the Welfare of Handicapped Children

Let us follow in the footsteps of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Let us work together hand- in-hand to realise his vision for our country. We must work side by side, men and women, to protect what we have and build on it further. This way we can ensure a better life for our children and following generations to come.

Dr Lamya Harub

Energy Security Expert More than a century after the first International Women’s Day, women have made tremendous progress toward a more just and equitable society in the world. While much still needs to be done to advance women’s issues, it is still essential to celebrate the women who have been important throughout history which includes our mothers, sisters, aunts, daughters and female leaders. It is for this reason that the theme for International Women’s Day in 2019 is ‘Think equal, build smart, innovate for change’. The achievement of the ambitious Sustainable Development Goals requires transformative shifts, integrated approaches and new solutions, particularly when it comes to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. In this respect, I believe that His Majesty the Sultan’s appointment of two additional female ministers into the Council of Ministers will allow Oman to adopt innovative approaches that disrupt ‘business as usual’ and Insha’Allah will permit for the removal of any structural barriers to ensure that all women are given equal opportunities. Happy Women’s Day to all my sisters and brothers in Oman – and remember that she who charts her journey to the top with courage and accomplishments, will continue to fill Oman’s soul with pride and glory.

Dr Auhoud Said al Bulushi

Academic researcher and civil activist His Majesty the Sultan’ vision played a central role in Omani women’s achievements as it has given the two genders equal opportunities. As a result of this vision, Omani women have been involved in many sectors and at different levels of decision-making; in the educational field, labour market, the public arena and community service. His Majesty the Sultan has placed great importance on Omani women’s contribution for sustainable development in the society. Since the early days of the Blessed Renaissance, great efforts have been exerted to empower women and equip them with the right skills and education.

Haifa al Khaifi

Finance director, Petroleum Development Oman His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said always had a vivid vision regarding the significant role that women would play towards further advancement of our country. That vision has now been deeply embedded into our every day lives, and the recent appointment of Omani women in key governmental positions, is a further testament to the supportive, and enabling ecosystem of our country. Omani women continue to prosper in driving change, in a myriad of sectors, contributing to the economy, whilst simultaneously executing our role of being mothers, wives, daughters, and sisters. It is challenging, but well worth every ounce of the effort. We are incredibly blessed to be Omanis. The sky is the limit, so let us continue to support each other to realise our aspirations. Happy Omani Women’s Day!

Yuthar al Rawahi

Founder, OCA Appreciating women is necessary as they are the main pillar of the family and the nation.  Their role is recognised and given great importance in Islam as mothers. His Majesty the Sultan believes in the capabilities of women and is keen on their involvement in our society and government. Oman is one of the 10 countries to embrace Universal Health Courage (UHC), to support mainly women for their treatment and management.  Sound health in women addresses a number of issues in our societies.

Dr Amira al Raedan

HoD Mental Health Department, Ministry of Health I congratulate every Omani woman on this special day, which falls on October 17. His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has honoured Omani women by believing in their abilities. He entrusted women to shoulder the burden of leadership and responsibilities for a bright future. Omani women have achieved big in various scientific, health, economic and political fields. Omani women have held leadership positions in various regional and international forums.

Balqees al Hassani

Vice president, Knowledge Oman With the recent appointment of many Omani women in the highest-ranking offices in both public and private sector, and the support from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said towards the empowerment of Omani women, I encourage all Omani women to continue to make the best of the opportunities and support that is available today. Take part in social and economic development and strive together to reduce male-domination. Today, Omani women are given equal opportunities and hold significant roles that help to shape up the future of Oman economy and society. Omani women have even made it to the Forbes list and continue to play a significant role in moulding the future of the country; there’s no slowing down Omani women. On the occasion of Omani Women’s Day, I could not be prouder to be an Omani woman and proud of all my fellow-beings who are achieving great milestones on many fronts.

H E Maitha al Mahrouqi

Undersecretary, Ministry of Tourism 

Women have made big progress as professionals. Omani Women’s Day means a lot to all Omani women and we thank and appreciate what His Majesty the Sultan has done to make us prosper. It is our duty to give back by working very hard and excel in our chosen fields, helping to develop the country. I believe that His Majesty’s appointment of Omani women to senior positions is a testament that Omani women can deliver and shoulder responsibilities. I am proud to say that many of us play significant roles that help to shape up the future of Oman’s economy and society. It is a matter of great pride being an Omani woman. I congratulate all the women in the country on this day.