Muscat – If you could offer just one piece of advice to students at the start of the new academic year from August 31, what would it be? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said – 

Muna Basheer al Zadjali, Private sector employee

Every new academic year brings fresh opportunities, challenges and goals. My advice to students is, manage your time wisely. Success in school is not only about intelligence, but also about discipline and organisation. A clear plan, balanced schedule, and commitment to priorities can reduce stress and improve performance. Time management builds healthy habits that benefit students not just in class, but in life.

Ahmed al Balushi, Public sector employee

Try to be outdoors as much as indoors. Make sure you engage in physical training classes like football and games. Also, focus on building strong foundations now. What you learn in school shapes your future career and life. Technology can be useful, but don’t let it distract you. Participate in class, respect your culture and teachers, and always aim to contribute positively to society.

Waseem Khan, Engineer

My advice is to embrace challenges instead of fearing them. Each academic year brings opportunities to learn new skills. Don’t be afraid of mistakes; they’re stepping stones to success. Be kind to classmates, collaborate and grow together. Also, do not procrastinate on homework; finish it the very same day.

Anil Verma, Teacher

My advice to students is simple: value consistency over shortcuts. Even small efforts every day add up to big success. Don’t chase marks alone; focus on building knowledge and character. Respect your teachers, stay curious and remember that education is an investment that never loses value.

Fadia Raisi, Teacher

We often see students come back to school and struggle to finish their schoolwork because of extra classes or parties they have with their friends when they come back. They must learn to manage time to avoid such problems. It’s all about balancing these activities properly.

Ayesha al Hashmi, Homemaker

My one advice is: never underestimate the power of discipline. Arrive on time, complete assignments and set daily goals. Success doesn’t come overnight – it’s built brick by brick. Enjoy your student years, but don’t waste these. Respect your teachers and your friends, too.

Jaspreet Malhotra, Operations manager

The children I see today are independent learners and try to take up many different tasks by themselves as they grow older. They see the act of asking for help as a sign of weakness. So, I want to encourage them to never be afraid as learning to reach out when you need help is a lesson in itself.

Kavya Shetty, Homemaker

Don’t feel too anxious when you start your school year. In my own experience, panicking too early has caused a lot of problems for me later on in my life. Try meditating or doing simple yoga exercises to calm your nerves before you face new projects and tests this year.

Abdul Rahman, Accountant

I say try your best at everything at school. Whether it’s math and science or sports and art classes, school is the best place for you to try and learn new skills that will become great hobbies or experiences that you will need in the future.

Sameer Khan, Private sector employee

As a parent, I would tell students to manage their time wisely. Balance studies, sports and hobbies – because overall growth makes you confident. Avoid comparing yourself with others; instead, compete with your yesterday. Most importantly, stay disciplined, humble and make learning a joyful journey, not just a duty. Also limit screen time.