Oman has launched a new initiative to instil sustainability values in young people, with over 100 female students from Safana Bint Hatim Al Tai School in Yiti set to become the country’s first “Sustainability Ambassadors.”
The programme, introduced in partnership between the Ministry of Education, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), The Sustainable City – Yiti and Carbon 6, with support from the Marriott Business Council, aims to inspire students to champion green practices in their schools and communities.
Targeting Grades 7 to 9, the project will involve 111 students in workshops and practical activities covering renewable energy, waste recycling, sustainable art, and clean mobility. The model is aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and The Sustainable City – Yiti’s sustainability framework, designed to balance environmental, social and economic progress.
Education officials said the programme was part of wider efforts to build awareness and equip students with future-ready skills.
“Education is a powerful tool for change. By instilling sustainability values at an early age, we are preparing future leaders to shape a greener and more responsible Oman,” said Khalisa Al Balushi, representing the General Directorate of Education for the Muscat Governorate.
She added that the directorate was committed to training students to solve real-world challenges and preparing them for a job market increasingly shaped by environmental priorities.
OMRAN Group, the government’s tourism development arm, said the programme reflected its long-term sustainability commitments.
“The ‘Sustainability Ambassadors’ initiative demonstrates OMRAN Group’s commitment to integrating sustainability principles across its projects and community initiatives,” said Mohammed Hamad Al Rasbi, Social Investment Lead at OMRAN. “By enabling students to understand and apply these principles, we empower them to become true partners in shaping a more conscious and responsible future.”
The Sustainable City – Yiti, one of Oman’s flagship eco-developments, also played a key role in the project. Its Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Mahmoud Shehada, said the initiative highlighted the importance of investing in youth awareness.
“Our participation reflects our responsibility to support surrounding communities and improve quality of life,” he said. “Investing in youth awareness is key to ensuring long-term impact.”
Carbon 6, a sustainability consultancy, designed and delivered the learning experiences for the students. Founder Abeer Ali Al Mukhaini said the aim was to turn awareness into tangible action.
“By engaging students in hands-on activities, we help turn awareness into action, creating young ambassadors who can inspire their families, peers, and communities,” she said.
Graduates of the programme will be recognised as official Yiti Sustainability Ambassadors, tasked with spreading awareness and encouraging environmentally responsible behaviour at grassroots level.
Officials said this was the first of a series of planned programmes that would further embed sustainability in education and public life across Oman.
The initiative underscores Oman’s commitment to advancing sustainability across economic, social, cultural and environmental dimensions, in line with its long-term national vision.
