Muscat: The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth, in close collaboration with the Foreign Ministry, the Sultan Qaboos Center for Culture and Science, and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, inaugurated the first edition of the Young Ambassadors Programme. This initiative aligns with an ambitious vision and unwavering commitment to developing human resources in line with the Sultanate of Oman's Vision 2040.
An event marking the inauguration was held under the auspices of Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Under-Secretary of the Foreign Ministry for Diplomatic Affairs. The programme's inaugural ceremony took place at the Novotel Hotel, Muscat.
The Young Ambassadors Programme is designed to harness the potential of Omani youth as the nation's greatest asset. Through a series of national initiatives and programmes spanning various sectors, it aims to empower Omani youth, nurture their creativity, and strengthen their connection to their national identity. This endeavour equips young individuals with the skills to actively contribute to sustainable development and effectively represent Oman on international platforms.
Speaking about the initiative, Shaikh Khalifa al Harithy highlighted its significance in supporting Omani youth and unlocking their capabilities in alignment with the goals of Oman's Vision 2040. He emphasised that the programme aims to prepare Omani youth to address international issues, participate in conferences and events, and serve as exemplary representatives of the Sultanate of Oman.
Fares al Awfi, Director of the Youth Programmes Department at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, expressed the Ministry's commitment to investing in young people and enhancing their capacities. He stressed the importance of collaboration with various sectors to create opportunities for Omani youth, stimulate their innovative ideas, and broaden their global awareness, enabling them to actively engage in international forums.
The programme has attracted significant interest, with 410 individuals initially registering. After rigorous selection, 120 young men and women advanced to the second stage, and eventually, 70 qualified to participate in the United Nations simulation programme in the Sultanate of Oman. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth extended its gratitude to the Foreign Ministry, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, and the Sultan Qaboos Center for Culture and Science for their instrumental roles in making the programme a success.
Faisal bin Nasser al Hosani, Head of the Youth Participation Department at the General Directorate of Youth, underscored the programme's objective of equipping young ambassadors with media, leadership, and communication skills. He also highlighted the creation of a database of empowered young individuals capable of representing Oman effectively at international conferences and meetings.
Rabie al Haddad, Director of the Diplomacy Programme at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, commended the programme's role in developing the capabilities of young people and offering them promising opportunities, especially in today's dynamic world. He emphasised the programme's significance in bringing Oman closer to the United Nations and aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations by 2030.
The opening ceremony witnessed the participation of key government bodies, including the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, signifying their commitment to active participation in the programme. Future collaboration between the United Nations and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth is expected to further strengthen these efforts.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth expressed appreciation by honouring the Sultan Qaboos Center for Culture and Science, the Foreign Ministry, and the United Nations Training Institute for their invaluable contributions and support to the Young Ambassadors Programme.
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