Muscat schools launch inaugural 'Arts Challenge' to discover young talent
Muscat – The first edition of the Arts Challenge initiative for school students in Muscat Governorate began today at Mazoon College in the Wilayat of Seeb. Organised by the Directorate General of Education in Muscat, the three-day event aims to discover and support artistic talent among schoolchildren across the capital.
Safiya bint Saif al Ghafri, School Activities Supervisor at the Directorate, stated that 240 male and female students from various schools are taking part. 'Participants have been divided between two venues: Mazoon College is hosting students from grades 4 to 8, while Scientific Design College will welcome students from grades 9 to 12, with the initiative concluding on Thursday,' she said.
Ghafri added that the challenge is not only a platform for competition but also a means to build a central database of talented students. 'Our goal is to identify and support gifted individuals by offering them training sessions, competition opportunities, and participation in exhibitions.'
The Arts Challenge covers a wide spectrum of visual arts, including drawing (in pencil, charcoal, ink, and colour), sculpture using various materials, design, digital illustration, photography, and Arabic calligraphy.
'This initiative enables the nurturing of skills at all levels, with the aim of preparing students to represent their schools, the governorate, and the Sultanate of Oman in both local and international art competitions,' Ghafri explained. Plans are also underway to hold an annual exhibition showcasing the work of the most outstanding participants.
The Arts Challenge marks a significant step forward in enhancing the creative development of youth in Oman and reinforcing the country's commitment to arts education.
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