Latest news with #AlKhabourahVocationalCollege
Observer
08-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Students explore AI, marine safety as part of forward-thinking programme
Suhar: Al Khabourah Vocational College recently conducted an innovative summer programme as part of the "Our Summer: Entrepreneurship and Innovation" initiative organised by the Office of the Governor of Al Batinah North. The programme targeted high school students (grades 10–12) and offered a dynamic and forward-thinking summer training experience. Its aim was to introduce youth to modern vocational fields and equip them with practical skills aligned with today's job market. The training featured four specialised programmes: Marine Safety, Fundamentals of English Language, Applications of Artificial Intelligence and AutoCAD Design. Each course was designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and hands-on exposure to career-focused disciplines offered at the college. Maryam bint Humaid al Butaliyah, the coordinator of the summer initiatives at the college, highlighted the importance of these programmes in shaping students' understanding of vocational pathways. "This initiative is not just about summer learning; it's about showing students what's possible through technical education. The skills they gain here are essential in today's world and support Oman Vision 2040," she stated. Students responded positively to the training experience. Fatma al Lawati, a participant in the AI programme, said, "The sessions were very useful, and the instructor delivered the content in a simple, clear way. I hope the programme continues. I would love to join again next year." Mohammed Al Qasmi, who took part in the Marine Safety programme, added: "I learned a lot about staying safe at sea and how to respond to emergencies or technical issues on a ship. It was a great experience that opened my eyes to the maritime field." By focusing on high-demand areas such as artificial intelligence, digital design, marine safety and professional communication, vocational institutions are aligning their training with national development priorities and the needs of the modern workforce. These fields represent more than just technical know-how; they cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration, all of which are key competencies in the 21st-century economy. For young students, early exposure to such disciplines allows them to explore potential career paths, build confidence in their abilities, and make informed decisions about their future. As Oman continues its efforts to diversify the economy and empower youth through Oman Vision 2040, these specialised training initiatives are vital. They not only enhance employability but also foster a culture of innovation, responsibility, and lifelong learning among young Omanis, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to national growth and sustainability. By bridging the gap between secondary education and vocational opportunities, Al Khabourah Vocational College's summer programme plays a key role in preparing young Omanis for future careers. The initiative reflects a broader national commitment to innovation in education and the development of a skilled, future-ready workforce.
Observer
19-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
From ideas into actions: 'Start-up Weekend' to empower youth
Al Khabourah, June 19 The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and thriving in Oman as the global innovation event 'Start-up Weekend' kicks off this weekend at Al Khabourah Vocational College. This internationally renowned competition, licensed by the US-based organisation Techstars, is held under the supervision of the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED) for three days. Yahya bin Ibrahim al Niyadi, Director of Al Khabourah Vocational College, emphasised the importance of the event, saying: 'Hosting Start-up Weekend reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation among students. It's inspiring to see so many young talents working together to create solutions that could shape Oman's future economy. This can be a major step in the entrepreneurial and innovation fields to encourage our youth to show their ideas turning into real projects and meeting expertises.' Start-up Weekend is no ordinary event, it's an intense, hands-on experience that gathers entrepreneurs, developers, designers and marketers under one roof to transform raw ideas into real start-up concepts. The participants form teams, develop prototypes and pitch their final projects to a panel of expert judges and all within one weekend. With the theme of 'Innovate, Build, Launch', this year's edition in Oman features the participation of 70 students from leading educational institutions, including Sultan Qaboos University, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Nizwa University, the University of Buraimi, A'Sharqiyah University, Oman College of Health Sciences, and vocational colleges from Suhar, Shinas, Al Seeb, Sur and Al Khabourah. The projects span across vital sectors such as technology, industry, healthcare, sustainability, agriculture, finance, sports and mobile applications, showcasing the depth and diversity of youth-driven innovation in Oman. The competition will be in four phases: idea pitching, team formation, project development with expert mentorship and final presentations. It not only promotes a strong culture of entrepreneurship, but also builds lasting connections between students and real-world investors, developers and start-up coaches. As the final day approaches, anticipation grows for the pitch session, where the most promising start-ups will be recognised – not just with prizes, but with the opportunity to move from prototype to product, from dream to enterprise.
