Building the nation is not merely a responsibility assigned to employed citizens and the youth. It is, in fact, the responsibility of all Omanis, as many job-less people can also contribute significantly to the nation-building process in one way or the other. Every one of us is accountable for giving back to this blessed land and building a better future for the generations to come.
Since his early days on the throne, the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos called upon all Omanis to contribute to the national mission of building a new Oman, stating: “We promise you that we shall do our duty towards the people of our dear country. We also hope that every one of you will do his duty in helping us to build the thriving and happy future that we seek for this country.”
Likewise, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, upon his ascension to the throne, expressed, “Our full gratitude and appreciation for every hand that participates in building Oman.”
Regardless of their gender or age, all individual Omanis have been called to join forces with government bodies in the nation-building march. The first call, made in the early days of the Renaissance, while the second emphasised the renewed Renaissance and vision of progress. Both Sultans believed in Omani people as key factor in national development and trusted them as a reliable resource.
In light of this, all citizens are obliged to shoulder this responsibility and play a part in their respective fields, wherever they are and whatever they do. Therefore, all that matters is they spare no effort in serving the nation and its people. Whether their profession is big or small, it should not be undervalued as long as it contributes to giving back to this land and its people. Great achievements always begin with small deeds. This is how one should approach nation-building if we are serious about valuing the contributions of every Omani!
However, what sometimes happens during the celebration of national achievements is deeply disappointing and unfair. On certain occasions, some are not appreciated for their efforts or sacrifices, for instance. Case in a point, during the celebration of Omani Women’s Day on October 17, only a selected few women are acknowledged.
On the other hand, housewives, who play an equally vital role, are rarely given the recognition they deserve for their tireless work every day within their families. They raise children from birth, serve the entire household, and ultimately contribute in shaping a well-educated and morally strong society. Yet, these mothers, sisters, and wives are often undervalued, as if their efforts have not contributed to serving the nation.
Perhaps many of them are graduates, but they are not employed. Some may be widows or divorced mothers, but they are all actively building the future of Oman by raising the next generation of heroes.
Similarly, the celebration of Labour Day should not be restricted to employed citizens alone. Retired individuals also deserve to be acknowledged on this day. Regardless of their past professions, each retiree has worked hard and contributed in nation-building as a national responsibility and priority.
Many retirees have worked alongside the government in the past, contributing in the construction of a new Oman and helping bring about the prosperity and bright future that the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos had promised since the first day of the blessed Omani Renaissance.
On these special occasions, which are celebrated annually, these two important segments of society — housewives and retirees — need to be publicly acknowledged. It is time to honour them and express our gratitude for all their sacrifices to the nation. May Almighty Allah bless them all!
It was said that building a nation is like planting a tree. It requires time, care and patience to see it grow and bear fruit.
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