Muscat – Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MCSY) has launched the 2025 edition of its Youth Initiatives Support Programme, approving 61 projects across the sultanate. The initiatives span the fields of culture, health, sports, economy, media, religion, environment and entrepreneurship with the aim of benefiting diverse segments of society.

Hilal bin Saif al Siyabi, Director General of Youth Affairs at MCSY, said the programme reflects an ongoing commitment to backing youth-led projects that address community needs and align with Oman Vision 2040. Priority areas include innovation, sustainability and social development.

“Youth initiatives are voluntary, non-profit projects designed and carried out by Omani youth to tackle development and social issues,” Siyabi said. He added that the programme encourages leadership, active citizenship and respect for national cultural values.

According to the ministry, the programme creates a collaborative framework connecting youth with government institutions, allowing young people to propose practical solutions while gaining skills in project management and planning.

Support includes training, consultations and capacity-building sessions, as well as logistical help with venues, transport and official processes. Financial backing is available for projects that meet quality standards and align with ministry priorities.

Applications for 2025 were submitted via the ministry’s website and screened under strict criteria, including leaders being Omani youth, and projects being non-profit and having clear and measurable goals.

MCSY has also launched advanced training for programme leaders, focusing on modern tools, capacity building and alignment with national development plans. The next phase will emphasise high-quality content and a decentralised support model tailored to each governorate.

Since its inception in 2016, the programme has supported over 600 initiatives, benefiting more than 150,000 young men and women. It has also helped organise national exhibitions and events, raising awareness and recognition of youth-led efforts.

To strengthen oversight, the ministry has developed a comprehensive guide and an electronic system to evaluate and enhance initiatives in partnership with public and private sector stakeholders.