MUSCAT: The Wilayat of Sur in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate celebrated academic excellence on Sunday by honouring 119 outstanding students and schools as part of the OMIFCO Award for Scientific Excellence for the academic year 2023–2024. The event was held under the auspices of Her Highness Sayyidah Dr Mona bint Fahd al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation at SQU and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Children First Association. Supported by OMIFCO for the ninth consecutive year, the ceremony reflects the enduring partnership between the public and private sectors to elevate educational standards and encourage academic achievement. Held at Al Sharqiyah Hall, University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Sur, the event was attended by dignitaries, including their excellencies the Walis of the governorate’s wilayats, Majlis Ash'shura members, officials from the public and private sectors, and parents. The award honoured students excelling in the General Education Diploma, grades five to eleven across the governorate’s five wilayats, private school students, and students with hearing disabilities. Schools achieving over 90 per cent in performance were also recognised. Abdullah bin Ali al Fori, Director-General of the Directorate-General of Education in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, highlighted the importance of celebrating academic achievers, saying:
“Today we celebrate these knights at a time when Oman is moving towards a bright future under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, who confirmed that education, scientific research, and innovation will be at the top of our national priorities.” Al Fori praised OMIFCO as a model of successful public-private partnership, noting its contributions to enhancing school facilities and providing modern technologies.
Education as a Pillar of Development
Qassim bin Mohammed al Balushi, Strategic Director of Social Investment at OMIFCO, emphasised the transformative power of education, stating:
“At OMIFCO, we believe that investing in education is the best way to achieve positive change in societies. Today, we celebrate not only the individual achievements of students but also the message they carry towards building a brighter future for Oman.” OMIFCO’s ongoing support includes scholarships and the introduction of modern educational technologies, helping align education with Oman Vision 2040 goals. The event featured a welcoming poem by student Yousef bin Awad al Dawoodi, a visual presentation titled The Ambition of Glory, and a videotaped musical performance celebrating students’ achievements and aspirations for Oman Vision 2040. Her Highness Sayyidah Dr Mona bint Fahd honoured the outstanding students and awarded the top-performing schools in the male and female categories:
Male Category:
First Place: Imam Abdulmalik bin Humaid School
Second Place: Sultan Qaboos School
Third Place: Ahmed bin Majid School
Female Category:
First Place: Lubaba bint Al Harith School
Second Place: Bilad Bani Bu Hassan School
Third Place: Bilad Bani Bu Ali School
The OMIFCO Award for Academic Excellence continues to inspire students and educators, fostering innovation and a commitment to academic and scientific pursuits. It remains a cornerstone of community-driven efforts to achieve a bright future for Oman.
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