WHAT do students and scarecrows have in common? Both stand as guardians: one of knowledge and growth, the other of crops and fields.
In a groundbreaking initiative, five schools in Muscat — The Sultan’s School, A’ Soud Global School, Ahmad bin Majid International Private School, British School Muscat and Al Huda Private School — collaborated on an innovative scarecrow project that integrated art, science and sustainability.
This initiative encouraged students to be competitive and creative while having fun. They were tasked with creating unique storylines, designing innovative scarecrows using advanced technology and working closely together. This not only brought students together, but also raised awareness about sustainability in schools and homes, sparking interest in agribusiness.
The competition’s winners, dubbed ‘Earth Guardians,’ showcased remarkable creativity and environmental consciousness.
The first place was awarded to the team ‘Pedro vs Pests', whose scarecrow combined craftsmanship and technology, using high-tech sounds to scare pests. Their six-member team included Lubna Mustafa, Luai Mustafa, Buhsra al Khatri, Aoud al Oufi, Khawlah al Raisi and Hadeel al Hajri. Their innovation, a scarecrow that made sounds and had reflective eyes, highlighted the importance of natural resources and environmental conservation.
The second place went to ‘Queen Bee', under the guidance of Ms Yates, with team members Rakhi Maheswari, Niamh Kennedy, Dalia Lacheheb, Iffah Khan and Rahaf al Amri. Their scarecrow promoted the importance of bees, complete with bee hotels and feeding stations made from recycled materials. This project underscored the vital role of bees in pollination and the creative reuse of materials.
‘The Inventors’ secured third place with team members Maluk al Saadi, Mariam al Badwawi and Sundus Tariq Mohiuddin. Their scarecrow project, named ‘Halcon’, aimed to help Omani farmers chase away animals and birds that destroy crops.
Inspired by the theme of darkness and the fantasy movie ‘Maleficent', their scarecrow featured a mix of the character’s wings and a plague doctor’s mask, giving a predatory effect. Halcon, an interactive scarecrow with large wings, a light and sound system, taught students the value of using recycled materials to save money and foster creativity.
The project had a profound impact on students, parents and staff.
A first-place student from ABM remarked on the importance of sustainability and teamwork, while a second-place student from AGS highlighted the significance of environmental responsibility and community involvement. A third-place student from AMB enjoyed the collaborative and problem-solving aspects of the project.
Parents and staff also expressed their pride and appreciation for the initiative, noting its educational and environmental benefits.
The Earth Guardians project, supported by the Global Shapers Community Muscat in collaboration with YUZU Agriculture, made history as the first GCC hub and second in the MENA region to win the Climate Reality Project Challenge, backed by the World Economic Forum.
Rumaitha al Busaidi, Vice-President of the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) and Global Shaper Muscat alumni, praised the initiative for showcasing the talents and dedication of young eco-champions. “Their innovative approaches and unwavering efforts towards environmental sustainability have inspired us and set a benchmark for future initiatives,” she said. “It is their passion and hard work that remind us of the immense potential we have to shape a sustainable future,” she added.
Samiya Sheikh, Curator, Muscat Hub, Global Shapers Community, noted that the Earth Guardians project had blossomed into a powerful movement, showcasing the remarkable potential of Oman’s youth to shape a sustainable future.
“We are deeply inspired by the incredible response from students, parents, teachers and partners,” she said. “Our vision is to expand this movement, creating a ripple effect across schools and communities through innovative programmes and competitions and look forward to launch a digital platform and hosting more events to connect and inspire young environmental leaders.”
Aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and the SDGs, the Earth Guardians project is dedicated to nurturing change makers across generations for a greener and more compassionate planet.
The success of this project exemplifies how integrating art, science and sustainability can inspire the next generation to be innovative and environmentally conscious, making a significant impact on their communities and beyond.
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