Muscat – In an important move to enhance global language competencies among Omani students, Ministry of Education (MoE) has announced introduction of Chinese as an elective subject for grades 9 to 12 commencing from the 2025-2026 academic year.

The new programme aims to strengthen language proficiency and promote cultural immersion, with classes scheduled five days a week to ensure consistent engagement and effective learning.

The curriculum is designed to equip students with foundational Chinese language skills, focusing on essential communication techniques, cultural insights, and practical knowledge that will support their future academic and professional aspirations.

Students will learn to introduce themselves, discuss places, hobbies and aspirations, as well as navigate conversations about days, months, numbers and dates. The programme will use simplified Chinese, with emphasis on both reading and writing to build comprehensive language competence.

Initially, the programme will be piloted in four schools across two governorates. In Muscat, Sayyid Sultan bin Ahmed School will offer Chinese to grades 11 and 12, while Juwayriya bint Abi Sufyan School will extend the programme to students of grades 9 to 12. In Dakhliyah, Al Turath District School and Al Shatha bint Jaber Basic Education School will also implement the curriculum for students in grades 9 to 12. The pilot phase will allow MoE to assess the programme’s effectiveness and make necessary adjustments for broader implementation in the future.

The Chinese language programme will offer a comprehensive curriculum, incorporating first-level (A1.1) and second-level (A1.2) textbooks to provide a structured learning path. Both printed and digital educational resources will be utilised, ensuring students have access to diverse learning materials that cater to different learning styles.

Cultural enrichment activities, such as student camps, competitions and interactive events, will be integral to the programme, fostering a deeper understanding of Chinese culture alongside language acquisition.

To support modern language learning techniques, the programme will leverage advanced digital platforms, enhancing the classroom experience with interactive tools and resources. Additionally, students will be prepared for a  Chinese proficiency test (HSK), enabling them to earn globally recognised certifications that can enhance their academic and professional profiles.

Classes will be led by specialised, native Chinese-speaking teachers with extensive experience in teaching non-native speakers, ensuring high-quality instruction and effective language development.

This initiative aligns with Oman’s strategic vision to prepare its youth for the global job market by broadening linguistic abilities and cultural awareness, a press release stated. ‘With proficiency in Chinese, Omani students will gain a competitive edge in international academic and professional environments, enhancing their opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world. The introduction of Chinese in select schools marks a significant step towards equipping the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic, global society.’