The year saw a plethora of decisions aimed at fostering a sustainable, inclusive and prosperous nation

Muscat – The dawn of 2023 brought with it new hope – and challenges – under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, as Oman continued on its path of development and economic diversification.

Through a series of Council of Ministers meetings chaired by His Majesty the Sultan, the year witnessed a plethora of decisions aimed at fostering a sustainable, inclusive and prosperous nation. The visionary approach, demonstrated through various policies and initiatives, presents a roadmap that resonates with the aspirations of the Omani people, the youth and the nation’s future.

Education

Central to His Majesty the Sultan’s developmental vision is the enhancement of the education sector. Education is viewed not merely as a tool for personal growth, but as a cornerstone for national progress. Deliberations and subsequent decision to implement the ‘Vocational and Technical Education System’ for Grades 11 and 12 reflect a deep understanding of the evolving global educational landscape. This initiative, aligned with Oman Vision 2040, is designed to equip the youth with indispensable skills across a broad spectrum of professional and technical domains. It envisages a cadre of well-prepared individuals capable of steering Oman towards a knowledge-based economy.

In line with the attention accorded by His Majesty to the development of national competencies, the Council of Ministers approved the 2023-2027 External Scholarships Programme by introducing a scheme for grooming graduates who are capable of playing leading roles in various economic sectors. The candidates will be sent to major in important future specialisations at top international universities. The scheme will provide 150 scholarships over a period of five years, starting from 2023, worth RO36mn.

To encourage private higher education institutions to play a greater role in boosting the educational process, the Council of Ministers decided that private higher education institutions which were given land (lease based) will get ownership of the land, while at the same time exemption from prescribed fees.

Economic resilience

The Council of Oman meetings underscored the imperative of diversification and innovation. The unveiling of the Oman Future Fund, with a capital of RO2bn, is a significant stride towards fostering a climate conducive to investment. This fund is poised to invigorate economic activities, encourage the private sector to engage in partnerships and finance viable investment projects resonating with the sectors earmarked for diversification under Oman Vision 2040.

Moreover, His Majesty the Sultan’s directive to channel a portion of the fund’s capital towards bold investments in SMEs and startups is a testament to the recognition of the pivotal role these enterprises play in economic rejuvenation and job creation. It is an acknowledgment of the entrepreneurial spirit of Oman, aimed at creating a vibrant ecosystem where innovation thrives and contributes to the national economy.

Sports and cultural development

In an effort to promote a culture of physical fitness, community engagement and national pride, His Majesty the Sultan issued directives to initiate the establishment of an integrated Sports City. Envisioned to host regional and international tournaments, the city is a step towards placing Oman on the global sports map. Additionally, an emphasis on developing infrastructure for camel races augments the preservation and celebration of Oman’s rich cultural heritage, while also aiming to spur tourism activities across the governorates.

Social welfare

The social welfare of the citizens, especially the vulnerable segments, is one of the priorities of the government of His Majesty the Sultan. A decision to grant a 15% discount on electricity bills during the summer months reflects a compassionate governance approach, aimed at alleviating the financial burdens on the populace.

Additionally, allocation of RO26.4mn for housing assistance by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning shows a commitment to ensuring adequate housing for all, thus enhancing the quality of life and social stability.

One of the most remarkable developments this year was the launch of Sultan Haitham City in the wilayat of Seeb. His Majesty the Sultan affirmed that the inception of the project stemmed from a trend to set up modern cities with international planning standards, integrated and interconnected facilities, and equipped with all services that meet the needs of residents. The city seeks to ensure the stability of families and spearhead model development in building sustainable cities.

As a result of its keenness to provide proper health cover and manage it in modern ways, the Council of Ministers also approved the establishment of a National Centre for Women and Children’s Health at Sultan Haitham City.

Regional and global stance

On the regional and international fronts, His Majesty the Sultan has adopted a balanced and principled stand. In his deliberations on the Palestinian crisis, he called for a peaceful resolution and emphasised on protecting civilian rights, which reflect Oman’s unwavering commitment to fostering regional peace and stability.

His Majesty the Sultan also directed an unprecedented and generous donation of US$3mn from Oman to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of the besieged Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

His Majesty’s call for the international community to adhere to humanitarian principles exemplifies Oman’s neutrality and its endeavours to build bridges and promote a culture of peace and dialogue.

The visionary directives of His Majesty the Sultan underscore a holistic and progressive approach. As Oman navigates through the ordeal of global challenges, the roadmap laid down in 2023 is a beacon of hope and a blueprint for a prosperous, resilient and inclusive nation.