Latest news with #MoSD
Observer
3 days ago
- Business
- Observer
'Ayadi' volunteer platform to promote culture of giving
Muscat, June 18 In a significant move to institutionalise volunteer work in the Sultanate of Oman, the Ministry of Social Development (MoSD), in partnership with Al Hosni International Group, officially launched the 'Ayadi' digital platform for volunteerism on Wednesday. The event was held under the auspices of Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidy, Governor of Muscat and attended by ministers, dignitaries and representatives from government entities, private sector organisations and civil society. 'Ayadi' is the first official digital platform in Oman dedicated to organising and enhancing volunteer efforts across the country. The initiative reflects the goals of Oman Vision 2040, particularly in the area of social welfare and protection, by creating a supportive environment for social responsibility and volunteer contributions. Hamood al Shibibi, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Social Development, stated: 'The Ministry is proud to launch 'Ayadi', Oman's first official digital platform for volunteerism. It aims to unify and streamline voluntary efforts and initiatives across the Sultanate of Oman. The platform will attract volunteers from government, private and non-profit sectors, as well as individuals, making it easier to register and match skilled participants with relevant opportunities.' He added: 'Each volunteer will have a personalised profile, a volunteering certificate and a digital record, which can be utilised as a formal reference for future opportunities across various sectors.' The platform is designed to elevate the culture of volunteerism in Oman, ensuring professional management of volunteering activities through a centralised, data-driven approach. It enables the creation of a unified database and provides detailed statistics about volunteers and their contributions, helping shape future national initiatives. Three key volunteer initiatives were announced during the launch: 'Baharna Mas'ooliyatna' (Our Sea, Our Responsibility), 'Oman Design Week' and 'Sawaa'id Al Khair' (Hands of Goodness). 'Ayadi' integrates volunteer teams, NGOs, public and private entities; and individual volunteers under a single digital umbrella. It provides access to opportunities across fields such as healthcare, education, environment, emergency relief and other developmental sectors. Built with community input gathered through online consultations, the platform was shaped according to the aspirations of the Omani people for a modern, accessible and efficient volunteer ecosystem. The mobile app is now available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, offering users an easy and flexible experience. Volunteers can register, choose initiatives that align with their interests and expertise, receive training and gain formal recognition for their contributions. Institutions, in turn, can launch initiatives, manage volunteer relationships, track progress and generate customised reports — ensuring transparency, accountability and maximum impact.
Muscat Daily
3 days ago
- General
- Muscat Daily
Oman's first volunteering platform to strengthen social responsibility
Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD), in partnership with Al Hosni Group International, has launched Oman's first national volunteering platform 'Ayadi' to bring together volunteer teams, associations, institutions, and individuals under one system. The platform has been created to make it easier to access opportunities in fields such as health, education, environment, relief and development. It aims to unify efforts and build an accurate record of volunteer contributions, fostering a culture of giving and teamwork, officials said. The launch event took place on Wednesday under the patronage of Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidi, Governor of Muscat, and was attended by ministers, dignitaries and representatives from government, private institutions and civil society organisations. Ayadi is intended to promote and organise volunteer work in line with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises social welfare and the creation of an environment that encourages community participation and social responsibility. The platform aims to strengthen the culture of volunteerism and manage it efficiently through a supportive digital system. It will provide a unified database of volunteers and volunteering activities across the sultanate, and help generate diverse opportunities for community engagement and social cohesion. During the launch, three initiatives were introduced on Ayadi – one of which is 'Our Sea, Our Responsibility' announced by Sohar Port and Freezone. This programme aims to increase environmental awareness and protect coastal areas through beach clean-ups in Majis and Suhar, involving around 200 volunteers. The Omani Society for Design presented its national initiative 'Oman Design Week', to engage youth in organising an annual event for the promotion of design and reinforcement of cultural identity through ten participating volunteers. Salalah Volunteer Team introduced Sawaed al Khair (Hands of Goodness), targeting remote mountain areas in Dhofar to open trails and clean water streams and springs, with around 30 volunteers involved. Ayadi was developed with input from the community through an online engagement phase to ensure it meets public expectations for a technology-based volunteering environment. The platform's mobile app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, allows volunteers to register, create profiles, join opportunities, access training programmes and receive certificates. Organisations can propose initiatives, manage volunteers, track hours, and generate reports on their projects. Officials hope Ayadi will encourage greater participation in volunteer work and strengthen community responsibility across Oman.
Observer
5 days ago
- Health
- Observer
MoSD, Unicef launch guide to boost child protection
MUSCAT: In a significant move to bolster child protection efforts, the Ministry of Social Development (MoSD), in partnership with the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) office in the Sultanate of Oman, launched the Child Protection Guide under the auspices of Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development (MoSD). The launch was attended by representatives from various government bodies, civil society organisations and international partners. The guide serves as a comprehensive and practical reference aligned with international standards. It is specifically designed to assist frontline workers — including social workers, teachers and healthcare providers — by unifying key concepts, simplifying referral procedures and enhancing coordination among stakeholders. The ultimate goal is to enable rapid and effective interventions that ensure the protection of children and the creation of a safe and nurturing environment for every child in Oman. Sayyidah Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidy, Director-General of Family Development at the Ministry of Social Development, stated that the guide represents a strategic milestone in integrating national efforts to combat child abuse, neglect and exploitation. It empowers professionals to act with greater efficiency and aligns with both the Child Law and Oman Vision 2040, reinforcing the country's commitment to child welfare. Unicef Representative in Oman, Sumayra Chowdhury, underscored the collaborative spirit behind the guide, noting that it symbolises not only guidance but a shared promise to take humane and decisive action whenever a child faces danger. She emphasised that this initiative reflects the strong, ongoing partnership between Unicef and the Government of Oman in building inclusive and responsive child protection systems. Haitham bin Salem al Khaduri, Director of the Family Protection Department, described the guide as a national framework that consolidates Oman's obligations under both local and international child protection laws. It supports the development of a unified case management system, enhances specialist capacity and contributes to community awareness, policy reform and violence prevention. As part of its implementation strategy, the Ministry of Social Development and Unicef will roll out a series of workshops and training sessions across Oman's governorates. These efforts aim to ensure the guide's effective and consistent use while reinforcing professional practices grounded in children's rights. The Child Protection Guide is a testament to Oman's dedication to nurturing its youngest citizens, safeguarding their rights, and laying the foundation for a brighter and more secure future.
Muscat Daily
5 days ago
- Health
- Muscat Daily
Oman with Unicef unveils national Child Protection Guide
Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD), in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) office in Oman, launched the Child Protection Guide on Monday as part of its efforts to strengthen unified national mechanisms for child protection across the sultanate. The launch event, held under the patronage of H E Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najar, Minister of Social Development, was attended by representatives from government bodies, civil society organisations and international partners. Designed as a practical reference in line with the best international practices, the guide targets frontline workers such as social specialists, educators and healthcare providers. It aims to unify terminology, streamline referral procedures, and enhance coordination among stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective response to child protection cases. Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidi Speaking at the event, Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidi, Director General of Family Development at the ministry, described the guide as a key milestone in integrating national child protection efforts. 'It empowers professionals to respond more effectively to cases of abuse, neglect and exploitation and supports the implementation of the national child protection framework in alignment with Oman Vision 2040 and the Child Law,' she said. Unicef representative to Oman, Sumaira Chowdhury, said the guide symbolises a strong partnership between Unicef and the government of Oman. 'It reflects a shared commitment to take humane and effective action to protect children from harm and build robust, integrated protection systems throughout the country,' she noted. The guide is the result of close cooperation between the ministry and Unicef and complements existing initiatives to build the capacities of child protection workers, enhance the national case management system, and raise public awareness around children's rights. To ensure effective implementation, the ministry, in coordination with Unicef, will roll out a series of 'training of trainers' workshops across various governorates.
Muscat Daily
03-06-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Oman launches programme to support for children with autism
Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD), through the National Autism Centre, has launched a summer programme aimed at supporting children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by combining rehabilitation and recreational activities. The initiative, which began on Tuesday, provides a structured and supportive environment to help children develop essential life skills during the summer break. An official from the ministry told Muscat Daily that the programme is designed to enhance behavioural, social, academic and functional skills through practical experiences tailored to each child's individual needs. 'It ensures each child receives the maximum benefit based on their unique potential,' the official said. The programme supplements ongoing rehabilitation services provided throughout the year and places a strong emphasis on communication and language development. Individual and group sessions incorporate alternative communication methods and assistive technologies to help children express themselves more effectively. Improving social interaction is a key focus, with group activities encouraging cooperation and peer engagement. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) strategies are employed to reinforce positive behaviour, while academic support is offered through reading, writing and arithmetic sessions. Sports and art activities are also included to aid the development of motor skills. The programme is being held in two phases at the National Autism Centre: The first from June 3 to 19, and the second from June 22 to July 3. Each day is divided into two sessions – 8:30am to 10:30am and 11:00am to 1:00pm – aligned with the children's energy levels and abilities. 'Through this programme, we aim to offer an integrated setting that supports children with autism during the summer. It thoughtfully blends rehabilitation, education and fun, boosting their self-confidence and enhancing core skills,' the official added. The sessions are supervised by a multidisciplinary team comprising behavioural therapists, speech and language specialists, and occupational therapists, ensuring a comprehensive approach that encourages active participation and sustained motivation.
