Muscat – Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in collaboration with Youth Sada Foundation, has announced the launch of ‘Hakawati al Dhahirah’ – or Dhahirah Storyteller contest – aimed at fostering creativity and enhancing public speaking skills among children aged five to 14 in the governorate.

The contest is part of the ministry’s efforts to preserve and promote Oman’s rich cultural heritage.

Open for registration until August 24, the competition will take place in three stages across the governorate. Participants are invited to submit a short video, no longer than one-minute duration, narrating a story from Omani folklore or about a visit to a local heritage or tourist site in Dhahirah.

The contest aims to develop participants’ knowledge of Oman’s cultural and natural heritage while also encouraging them to engage with the audience and develop their public speaking skills. Contest promotions said it will play a significant role in building participants’ personalities, fostering leadership qualities and instilling love for the country’s traditions and heritage.

Participants will be evaluated by a panel of judges with the best performers advancing to the second stage, where they will receive training in preparation for the final round. The final stage will feature live storytelling sessions at various cultural and tourist sites across Dhahirah where contestants will share their stories with a wider audience.

Winners will be announced on October 10; cash prizes will be awarded to the top three participants in each age category – 5-7 years, 8-10 years and 11-14 years. The first-place winner will receive RO150, second RO100 and third RO50.

The ministry and Youth Sada Foundation encourage all eligible children in the governorate to participate and celebrate the rich heritage of Oman.