In the hearts of Oman's youth, newspapers hold a unique power, weaving memories that evoke a range of emotions. For those in their twenties, collecting newspapers, each page adorned with their images from National Day parades or childhood escapades becomes a portal to a bygone era, drowning them in a whirlwind of nostalgia.
These memories are as diverse as the individuals who carry them—some recall purposeful trips to retrieve newspapers for specific reasons, while others reminisce about the recycling efforts that fueled school projects, parties, or the creation of expansive paper boats. During their formative years, newspapers stood as one of the few conduits of news, shaping a generation that now deeply appreciates the stories embedded within those ink-stained pages.
This profound regard for newspapers has blossomed into a collective endeavor among Oman's youth. Graduates, eager to commemorate their academic achievements in 2023, are embracing a trend that beautifully melds tradition with modernity—the artful design of graduation posters that mimic the feel of newspaper stories.
Noor AlMaashari, a recent graduate from Sultan Qaboos University, shared her perspective on this emerging trend, noting, "The newspaper trend appealed to me because it added a touch of creativity and storytelling to my graduation celebration. It offered a fun and unique way to express my journey and share it with others in a format that stood out from traditional graduation announcements."
The creativity of these graduates is evident in the diverse elements woven into their newspaper-inspired narratives. Some pour out their emotions about impending graduation, while others delve into the specifics of their academic journey—years spent immersed in their programs, the locations where knowledge was acquired, and the subjects that fueled their intellectual pursuits.
Yet, the uniqueness doesn't end with the content; it extends to the linguistic styles adopted by the graduates. Some find solace in the familiarity of Arabic, while others embrace the universality of English. The use of poetic language to capture the anticipation and sentiment of the moment contrasts with a more formal style employed to articulate the academic intricacies of their journey.
Adding a layer of nostalgia, some graduates opt to include childhood photographs, symbolising the lengthy process that culminates in this pivotal moment and forging a poignant connection with their families. This contemporary resurgence of newspaper-inspired creativity is more than just a passing trend—it's a powerful reminder to older generations that the youth welcome innovative adaptations of cherished elements from the past.
In a timely nod to an era when newspapers were the primary source of news, these graduation posters serve as a revival of the spirit of sharing joyous news during ceremonies and events. Bridging the generational gap, they artfully blend tradition with modernity, offering a thoughtful reflection on the enduring impact of a medium that once held a singular place in the hearts of the youth.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
