Muscat – Ministry of Education has announced that 53 new schools will become operational this academic year, marking a major boost to Oman’s educational infrastructure.

Khamis bin Mubarak al Hadidi, Director General of Projects and Services at the ministry, confirmed that 16 new school buildings across nine educational directorates have already been handed over to it, ensuring readiness for the new term.

The government has allocated more than RO31mn towards improving learning environments. Of this, RO20mn has been designated for construction of 80 new schools and additional facilities in existing institutions. New facilities have already been completed in 68 schools at a cost of RO15mn, with 53 schools expected to open this year.

A further RO7mn has been allocated for renovations and RO4mn for refurbishing 77 science laboratories, underscoring the ministry’s focus on improving quality education facilities nationwide.

Projects covering 120 schools also include construction of playgrounds, shaded areas and expansion of school cooperative societies aimed at creating vibrant and student-friendly campuses.

In parallel, the ministry has launched a pilot project in Barka, South Batinah to improve management of the school transport fleet. The project, covering 17 schools and 315 buses, serves more than 12,600 students, with plans underway to expand it across the governorate.

“These investments reflect the ministry’s commitment to providing modern, safe and engaging learning environments for students across Oman,” Hadidi said.